Christ-Centered Creativity Wins National Trophies for Matutum View Academy
Matutum View Academy (MVA), an Adventist school founded in 1968 at Acmonan, Tupi, South Cotabato, achieved a landmark victory as it proudly represented its community at the 13th Fun Fiesta sa Pilipinas 2025, held in Roxas, Isabela. The event, organized by the Philippine Arts and Culture Educators' Society, Inc. (PACES) and endorsed by the Department of Education through DepEd Advisory No. 157, s. 2025 and Regional Advisory No. 142, s. 2025, brought together schools from across the nation to celebrate Filipino creativity and heritage.
The competition promotes Filipino culture and creativity as it celebrates regional diversity and artistic excellence. Showcasing the fields of dance, theater, music, visual arts and literary, it encourages youth engagement as it provides a platform for students to express themselves and represent their schools and communities. It also supports DepEd’s cultural education goals as it aligns with DepEd’s commitment to holistic learning and cultural appreciation.
Despite its modest size, MVA, a school nestled at the foot Mount Matutum, it made a powerful impression. A delegation of 29 talented and faith-driven students showcased their artistic gifts across multiple categories, earning national recognition and bringing honor to their school and glory to God. Among the standout achievements was Zean Heart Ancheta’s championship win in the Kundiman (Solo) category. The school also secured 1st Runner-Up positions in Song Composition, Chorale Competition, and Traditional Ethnic Ensemble, while its Short Film entry earned 2nd Runner-Up and its Documentary placed 5th Runner-Up, testaments to the students’ versatility and creative depth.
These accomplishments were guided by a team of passionate mentors and staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Mrs. Virlyn Joy Jovinyl Tigley directed the Chorale and coached the Kundiman teams with musical expertise and spiritual encouragement. Sir Neil Balajadia infused creativity into the Ethnic Ensemble and Song Composition entries, while Sir Joam Amaza fostered teamwork and positivity in the Short Film and Documentary teams. Their leadership was instrumental in shaping the students’ performances.
Equally vital was the logistical and spiritual support that sustained the delegation throughout the journey. Ma’am Jeraldaine Claveria managed travel and finances with professionalism and grace. Mrs. Gerlie Marzo, Vice President for Academics, ensured seamless coordination between the school, church, and delegation. Pastor Israel Tigley provided spiritual counsel and prayer, strengthening the team’s faith. Mrs. Shirlyn Econar and the cafeteria crew kept the students nourished and energized, while Mrs. Marichelle Villanueva Bediones, the team’s treasurer, maintained calm and optimism during critical moments. Mrs. Marivic Cepeda Metran contributed her artistic skills to enhance the presentation of female participants, adding confidence and flair.
Overseeing the delegation’s overall operations were Sir Gabriel Claveria, Ma’am Leilann Gerlie Marzo, and Ma’am Jeraldaine Claveria, whose leadership ensured that every detail was addressed with care. The faculty and staff of MVA also extended their full support, allowing students to balance academic responsibilities with event preparations.
Pastor Heavenly Peace M. Patricio, the school principal shared thoughts “that the school’s success at the competition is more than a collection of awards it is a celebration of perseverance, unity, prayers, generosity, and unwavering support and Christ-centered excellence that made this journey possible”.
Matutum View Academy has proven that even a small school, rooted in faith and driven by purpose, can achieve greatness on the national stage despite competing against bigger or more prominent schools from all over the archipelago. But every delegate had this secret: “Carry light wherever you go; show that you have strength of purpose.” Ellen G. White, Messages to Young People. 23.1, and the President of the worldwide church, the General Conference, Elder Erthon Kholer, saying: “Don’t look at the size of your enemy, don’t look at the size of your mission, look at the size of your God.”
Therefore, brethren, remember this: "Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them.” Romans 12:6
Details by: Matutum View Academy
Written by: Lyka Atienza
Photos by: MVA Media, Hope Channel Southern Mindanao
