October 13, 2025, the Sophomore students, in collaboration with the Freshmen, staged their Art Appreciation Finals presentation, "Arroz Caldo Ni Myrna," a one-act dramatic musical performed at St. Thomas More College–Clark. Directed by sophomore student Hermyn Thomas S. Pineda under the guidance of their instructor Henry M. Wage, the production brought to life the difficult and often hidden realities of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) through symbolic storytelling, musical parody, and emotionally charged performances.
Set in the fictional community of Barangay Dulo-Dulo, the play utilized familiar pop-culture-inspired songs to depict everyday struggles in a manner that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. The production opened with "Barangay Dulo-Dulo," performed to the tune of Disney's Beauty and the Beast, immediately immersing the audience in a neighborhood that appeared lively and humorous on the surface but concealed deeper social issues beneath.
The cast delivered vibrant performances led by Luigi Piad as Becky, Resty Manango as Badet, CK Obispo as JerJer, and Hermyn Pineda as Violy. Their satirical portrayals provided moments of humor and levity before the narrative shifted toward the more serious experiences of Myrna, portrayed by Jean Riv, her son Michael, portrayed by Miguel and Daniel Lansang, and Polong, portrayed by Rick Gontinas.
The story's tension intensified after Michael emerged as the winner of Ms. Gay Dulo-Dulo 2025, an event that triggered greater hostility and violence from Polong. As the conflict escalated, the audience witnessed the devastating effects of abuse, discrimination, and power imbalance within the household. The emotional weight of the production reached a pivotal moment during a dramatic confrontation among the characters.
A haunting transition followed with the performance of "Matulog Ka Na, O Giliw," adapted to the melody of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody. The number created a chilling atmosphere that prepared the audience for the play's climactic revelation. In Scene Eight, "The Secret Ingredient," the truth behind Myrna's act of vengeance was finally uncovered, delivering a powerful and unforgettable conclusion that left the audience in stunned reflection.
The production was spearheaded by Hermyn Pineda, who also co-wrote the script with Catherine Amposta. The realistic set pieces, crafted by head propmakers Nadine Hernandez, Sheena Sebuco, and Estefanie Narciso, enhanced the overall theatrical experience, particularly during the climactic knife-fight sequence. Their attention to detail added depth and authenticity to the performance.
Through a creative blend of musical parody, drama, and social commentary, the student performers courageously addressed pressing issues of domestic violence, gender inequality, and societal prejudice. More than a final requirement for Art Appreciation, "Arroz Caldo Ni Myrna" became a meaningful artistic statement that encouraged awareness, empathy, and reflection among its viewers.
The production stands as a testament to the students' creativity, talent, and commitment to using the arts as a platform for social advocacy, leaving audiences both entertained and profoundly moved.
