Baguio City, Philippines — The University of the Cordilleras (UC) College of Nursing (CON) has once again secured the Gold Award in the “Green Is In” Video Competition, marking its third consecutive victory in the annual university-wide event. The announcement of winners was made during the culminating ceremony of the Literary, Visual, Media Arts, Music, and Dance Competitions held at the UC Gymnasium on March 27, 2025.
The award-winning entry, directed by BSN 3 student Sean Dale Manaloto, centers on the moving narrative of John Eric P. Dela Torre, a student who braves bullying and discrimination as a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Dela Torre, who also served as CON’s official cosplay representative, became the heart of the story—embodying the competition’s theme: “Empowered Minds, Healthy Bodies.” His portrayal showcased how resilience and identity can thrive amid adversity.
Joining Manaloto in the video production team were BSN students Zedric G. Belmonte, Loreanne Sadang, Maverick Cereno Fortuna, Jaimee Szarina Javillonar, John Nielson Baling-oay, Steven Eduard Coloma, Neil Cyrus Gian Bangtuan, Christian Marquez, and Efren Licdan. Jiro Dela Cruz and Rafael Abenojar also lent their invaluable support during the production. The group worked tirelessly to meet the competition’s rigorous requirements, including producing original content in short documentary or story film format, using only student-recorded footage, and integrating subtitles.
The project was made possible under the guidance of faculty coach Gilbert D. Bernardino Jr., whose support helped the team overcome logistical challenges. With each student juggling clinical duties and academic responsibilities, coordinating video shoots, editing sessions, and costume production proved difficult. Nevertheless, through unwavering dedication, teamwork, and late-night collaboration, the team was able to deliver a compelling and polished final entry.
Complementing the video was a standout cosplay component. The costume design—crafted by Kert Rencis M. Padilla, Reina Jeliza T. Pasian, and Salvador Jr. M. Bocales—adhered to the competition’s sustainability criteria. Costumes were made entirely of biodegradable materials, such as paper and cardboard, with only paint and glitter allowed for decoration.
Participants were also required to create original characters aligned with the theme, portraying figures who embody the fusion of education and overall well-being. In the cosplay segment, Dela Torre confidently walked the runway in his handmade costume, further bringing the narrative to life. Each college was allowed only one cosplay and one video entry, with strict rules prohibiting store-bought materials, excessive editing, and any form of copyright infringement.
The victory reaffirms the UC College of Nursing’s commitment to advocacy, creativity, and inclusivity. With this three-peat achievement, UC CON continues to lead by example—using visual storytelling not only as a form of expression but also as a platform to address important social and environmental issues. As a result of the win, the video entry becomes official property of the university and may be featured in future Green Is In events to inspire and educate the broader UC community.
