CPU Cultural Groups showcase Philippine culture in a benefit concert

By Cyrus A. Natividad

CPU Excel Chorale performed a variety of Filipino songs during the Concert.

Central Philippine University Cultural Affairs Office and the CPU Dance Company presented a collection of cultural performances at the Rose Memorial Auditorium on December 10, 2019. The presentation also featured the CPU Excel Chorale and the CPU Symphonic Band. The talents performed popular folk dances, instrumental renditions and choral singing at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.

The program was shown at 9:00 AM, 2 PM and 6 PM, with the invocations led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V, Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church; Rev. Francis J. Jalando-on, Director, CPU Office of Communications and Pastor Jec Dan Borlado, respectively.

Randy A. Lero, Artistic Director, Crista S. Huyong, Chorale Director, and Ascencion O. Bautista, Band Director successfully managed the cultural show. They were admired by University President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles in his opening remarks at the gala show of Saludo. Dr. Robles specifically cited the creative contributions of the three directors that greatly contributed to the University.

The CPU Dance Company performs a Muslim Traditional Dance.

Among the highlighted performances of Saludo were: “Tag-araw”, Voices of the Cordillera (including “Ay-ay Salidumay, Manmanok, and Chakchok), Encuentros De Dos Mundos (including “Encanto De Maria Clara”, Polkabal, Lulay, La Jota Moncadena, Paseo de Iloilo and Lanceros de Lingayen). The CPU Symphonic Band’s contribution of solo saxophone, and violin were highly regarded by the audience.

The Tribal Mindanao included real composition and voices of the indigenous T’Boli singers. This was followed by Muslim Tapestry which included performances of “Dulang” and “Kinakulangan.” The segment of “Doon po sa Amin” included the artistry of song and dances including “O Ilaw”, Carinosa/Abaruray, Zamboanga, Pandanggo de Sta. Clara, Subli, and Pandanggo sa Ilaw.

The final song “Iloilo ang Banwa ko” was rendered by the Excel Chorale. Huyong, the overall production chair expressed her thanks to everyone for the successful cultural show. Lero and Bautista joined Huyong in their final exit with a bow. Show host Jose Carlos Marfil Catague acknowledged everyone who contributed to the success of Saludo.