The wealth of our cultural heritage was showcased once again in Bacolod and Dumaguete cities. This time, it's not Filipinos showcasing their own dances and songs but Japanese students of the Foreign Language Department of the  world-class Tokyo University.

The Tokyo University Foreign Studies Cultural Dance Troupe, led by Associate Professor Michico Yamashita,  performed at SM Bacolod City on March 8and later in Dumaguete City early this month.

The students, who speak Tagalog, are deeply interested about the Philippines that they learned not only the language but also the dances and songs they presented, the mentor said.

They were accompanied by Filipino National Artist  Ramon Obusan and trained by Raul Nepumuceno Jr. Their presentation included Cordillera, Spanish-inspire (Maria Clara), Muslim and Lumad dances as well as dances of lesser known tribes and festival presentations.

The dancers have also performed in their  country, Singapore and the United States.