MCL stages 2nd Pinoy Panitikan Cosplay, pledges heroism

Astounding creativity and national pride filled the air as famous Filipino fictional characters were once again brought to life in Malayan Colleges Laguna's (MCL) - College of Arts and Science (CAS) Week 2013 Celebration. MCL staged its second "Pinoy Panitikan Cosplay" or Philippine Literature Cosplay on February 14 at the school ground.

Over 500 students taking Filipino courses came out mimicking through their costumes, actions, and fighting styles a myriad of Filipino fictional characters such as Panday, Enteng Kabisote, Lastikman, and Darna.

Prof. Rogelio F. Valenzuela, the head organizer of the Cosplay event, conceptualized the idea of bringing favorite Filipino characters in literature, comics, TV series, and film to life to uphold the rich culture and arts of the Philippines.

According to him, it is the only version in the country that showcases fictional characters that are 100% Filipino.

He further explained that the 2nd Philippine Literature Cosplay took a historical approach in building the program: a dramatization of the Philippine History was staged first prior to the National Anthem; the fashion show of the student cosplayers had voice over about the history of the characters they were portraying; and there was a book parade of the characters from Ibong Adarna, Florante at Laura, Noli Me Tangere, and El Filibusterismo.

A speech choir titled "Takas" (Escaped) was also creatively performed showcasing illustrious Filipino fictional protagonists and antagonists.

And because it was also Valentine’s Day, famous Filipino love teams in literature, TV series, and films also did the catwalk such as Malakas-Maganda and Sir Chief-Maya.

More importantly, this year’s event also integrated the value of bayanihan and heroism in raising awareness and elevating the students’ interest in Philippine literature.

The latter part of the event revealed “Who’s the real superhero”. Prof. Valenzuela said that everyone is superhero in his or her own way; he believes that it is just about realizing that the change one wants should begin in one’s own self.

“Real power actually lies within one’s heart. We, ordinary Filipinos, are veritably the new heroes of our time,” he said.

Furthermore, Prof. Valenzuela described the event as a creative venue for the students to better appreciate Philippine literature; hence 60 elementary pupils from Niugan Elementary School in Cabuyao City were invited to witness the event. The children also participated in a storytelling led by another batch of student cosplayers.

Prof. Ma. Rovilla C. Sudprasert, MCL’s Values Education, Language, Social Science, and Humanities cluster head and this year’s CAS Week 2013 overall head, said that the event was a success as it also fostered camaraderie among the students, faculty members, and school officials.

The event culminated with a Pledge of Heroism where everyone promised to be a good citizen by doing the best that they can be and to cultivate national pride and culture in everything that they do.

The 2nd Philippine Literature Cosplay was one of the highlights of the 3rd MCL-CAS Week Celebration.