Visayas Festivals Give Students New Platforms to Showcase Creativity Through 5G

As digital technology becomes more embedded in everyday life, 5G is opening new ways for young people to learn, create, and participate in shared experiences. The fifth generation of mobile networks offers faster speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connectivity than previous technologies, making it easier to upload content, collaborate in real time, and access digital platforms even in crowded environments where many devices are connected. These capabilities are especially valuable during large public events, where stable connectivity allows interactive activities and live engagement to run smoothly.

These digital advantages are being applied in cultural festivals, where student-centered activities are increasingly integrated into major community celebrations. During Sinulog in Cebu and Dinagyang in Iloilo, students explored creative expression through art and music while discovering how technology can enhance collaboration and participation in public spaces.

Supporting these experiences are youth-focused programs designed to align with how students learn and engage today. Through the Globe Student Program, participants access opportunities that strengthen collaboration, build confidence, and connect classroom learning with real-world experiences. Digital responsibility is also a key component, with initiatives such as Safer Internet Day and the Digital Thumbprint Program helping students protect their identities and navigate online spaces safely.

One of Globe’s featured activities this year is the 5G Building Craft: Paint Tomorrow, where students created murals imagining a future city shaped by intelligent systems, connectivity, and artificial intelligence following discussions on emerging technologies. Another highlight, 5G EnergyJam, gave student musicians a platform to perform before festival audiences, helping them gain exposure beyond campus while building confidence through live performance.

Maria Leamae Pataganan of Southwestern University PHINMA in Cebu said their mural reflected the journey of students leaving home for education, showing how connectivity helps families stay close despite distance. In Iloilo, Gabriel S. Bañas of Iloilo Science and Technology University emphasized that dependable internet represents both opportunity and connection, particularly when paired with responsible digital use.

“At Globe, we believe that festivals are more than celebrations, they are opportunities for students to express themselves, innovate, and connect with their communities,” said Therese Anne Calma, Head of Marketing Youth Culture at Globe. “By integrating 5G-powered platforms into cultural events and pairing them with programs that promote digital safety, we are giving the youth a stage to explore their talents, build confidence, and bring their creative ideas to life responsibly.”

For many participants, these festival experiences became important milestones in personal growth. Ernst Cleiffe G. Con-ui of ACLC College described performing at Sinulog as an experience that strengthened his confidence as a musician. Nathanyael Zane G. Buyco of West Visayas State University College of Nursing said Dinagyang showed how digital platforms can help student talent reach audiences beyond campus while fostering teamwork and creativity. The initiative continues at Panagbenga, where students will again participate in 5G Building Craft: Paint Tomorrow and 5G EnergyJam, providing further opportunities for young people to share ideas and talents in spaces where culture, creativity, and technology come together.