FACULTY - Francis Jaena Jr
Francis Jaena Jr. began his dance training at the age of 13 in Iloilo City with the Dagyaw Theatre and Dance Company under Edwin Duero, influenced by Agnes Locsin's modern dance technique. He was given a major role in Agnes Locsin's piece "Hinilawod" as Dumalapdap, along with other contemporary ballet roles and folk dances. He participated in summer dance workshops conducted by Paul Morales, Denisa Reyes, and Breshnev Larlar, and was recognized as one of the promising young artists of that time. In 1993, he was awarded "Dancer of the Year" by Australian Ballet's Nicholas Rowe for his exemplary technique in modern dance.