For Maharlika, Delano’s current independent winter guard program, it is more than just performing; it is a program that keeps you grounded mentally, physically, and emotionally. It means creating a family and building a community through these programs.
Bryan Dandin, director of Maharlika, first established the program in 2023 with only 14 members, but it has since grown. Today, 26 performers have joined the program, all between 18 and 22 years old, representing different parts of the Central Valley.
Many from Bakersfield, Madera, Fresno, Hanford, Visalia, and the surrounding areas travel to Delano every Sunday to practice from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For these performers, it’s a hobby that decompresses them from outdoor stressors. It gives them room to be vulnerable as they release and embody their emotions through each performance.
Dandin, with the help of three of his former students, choreographs and manages logistics for his team. The set of eyes and hands that put everything together on the floor behind the scenes. He also receives assistance from one of his old high school coaches—three generations of coaching and community.
Without the help of his past and present coaches, the program wouldn’t be where it is today.
Dandin, a Filipino American, drew inspiration from his culture and ultimately picked the word Maharlika to represent his program. The word translates to “noble warriors,” a term used in pre-colonial Tagalog society.
“I’m Filipino, and I wanted to bring my part of my culture into the group,” said Dandin.
Color guard and marching band typically draw on military traditions. Historically, color guards were soldiers who carried flags and standards into battle. Now this historic tradition has switched to color guards carrying rifles, sabers, and flags.
Dandin previously worked at all three Delano high schools before teaching in Arvin for 10 years. Currently, he works with TK-8th-grade students in Delano, in addition to coaching and directing his program.
When it comes to Delano’s performing arts program, many are overshadowed by the athletic programs and do not receive the appreciation they deserve for the dedication and grit it takes to get this far.
Dandin points out a common misconception about color guard and the performing arts.
“The most common misconception of this, especially in high school, is that stigma that they do not want to do that because it looks different,” said Dandin, “But it’s a very inclusive sport.”
For rural communities like Delano and across the Central Valley, the performing arts, just like sports, hold more value than meets the eye. It’s companionship, family, and an opportunity to be themselves.
“I think they are important because there really isn’t much for us in the Valley. There are not so many opportunities here compared to bigger cities, but it allows these kids to express themselves and find new friends that they probably wouldn’t have met in their lives,” shared Dandin.
A core foundation for his program is instilling life lessons along the way by setting core rules, such as being on time, working with others, forming genuine connections, and being responsible. Dandin believes that because of this, many students always gravitate back towards him and his program.
Ryan Latham, a second-year performer originally from Hanford and a Fresno State student, commutes every weekend to practice. Latham is no stranger to the world of performing arts; previously, he played drumline during his time at Hanford West. He explained that the transition from drumline to color guard was difficult because a new set of skills was required.
The young performer ultimately joined the team for fun, but also because it would help his future career as a band director.
Latham felt programs like this are important “for small communities because it gives something tangible that communities can put out there. It also gives something to represent. It gives us a way to represent our towns,” he said.
The Mahrlika Winter Guard currently competes in the Independent A Class, so anyone aged 18-22 is eligible to participate. They also compete in WGI, Pep and Pageantry Arts Association of Central California (PPAACC), and the South Valley Winter Arts Association (SVWAA).
Alexandra Reign Barroga, another member of Mahrlika, has been in the program for three years but has been in color guard for approximately eight years.
Barroga emphasised how the dynamics of her team represent those of a family.
“We’re a family, just like every other team. Everything about this program is just amazing. We all bring each other up just like family members would,” she said.
They recently won the WGI Bakersfield Independent A Class and have been WGI Finalists in 2024 and 2025. In April, they will compete in the WGI: World Championships in Dayton, Ohio.
