Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Returns to Antique
A spectacular night of world-class music unfolded in Antique as the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra performed a special concert at the University of Antique Sibalom campus on August 15. Senator Loren Legarda collaborated with the Cultural Center of the Philippines to bring the orchestra back to her home province, rekindling Antique’s rich cultural heritage through the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.
“As the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra fills this space with world-class music, we celebrate something far deeper than notes and rhythms. It is an invitation for our people to celebrate, to dream, to remember that Antique is an important and colorful part of the Philippines,” Legarda emphasized, highlighting the deeper significance beyond the melodies.
A Proud Tradition of Musical Excellence
This marks the seventh occasion the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra has graced Antique with its presence. Previous performances were held in Anini-y in 1993 and 2018, Tibiao and San Jose in late 2018, and Pandan in 2019. Local leaders noted that the orchestra’s return continues a legacy of artistic engagement that celebrates Antique’s vibrant identity.
Legarda, speaking in Filipino during her keynote, said, “The return performance of the PPO is an invitation for our fellow countrymen to celebrate, to dream, and to remember that our province is a vibrant and significant part of the Filipino nation.”
Honoring Antiqueños’ Heritage and Spirit
Despite Antique’s development arriving later than other provinces, community members said the province proudly stands tall with its beauty, cultural richness, and the talents of its people. “Even though our progress came later, we can proudly hold our heads high and say that we are not to be left behind when it comes to the beauty and orderliness of our surroundings, our talents, and the richness of our culture and spirit as Antiqueños,” Legarda added.
The evening began with a heartfelt performance by the Ati community from Tobias Fornier, who presented “Tatay Miroy Karinyosa,” a tribal song and dance deeply rooted in Ati history and tradition.
Masterful Performances and Diverse Repertoire
Under the skilled direction of Maestro Herminigildo Ranera, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra delivered an enchanting two-hour program divided into two parts. The first segment featured lively orchestral works such as Dvorak’s “Carnival Overture,” Anderson’s “Serenata,” and Jenkins’ “Palladio.” Cellist Giancarlo Gonzales captivated the audience with Ennio Morricone’s “Sergio Leone Suite.”
Following that, the orchestra performed a medley of Tagalog classics arranged by Ryan Cayabyab. This transitioned into powerful show tunes from “Miss Saigon,” with acclaimed tenor Arman Ferrer and award-winning singer-actress Shiela Valderrama performing “Sun and Moon/Last Night of the World.” After a brief intermission, Valderrama and Ferrer showcased solo pieces, stirring deep emotions with “Ikaw” and “Corner of the Sky.”
Celebrating Filipino Culture Through Music
The concert’s second half highlighted film and stage music favorites, including themes from “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” “Superman,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Mission: Impossible,” and a vibrant medley of Filipino rock classics. Officials reported that this diverse selection delighted the audience and celebrated the nation’s cultural tapestry.
Legarda reflected on the power of music, saying, “Music is much like the stories of our kasimanwa, patiently shaped and nurtured through moments of hope and hardship, until it fully blooms into something precious that we can share with the world.”
“Tonight is a celebration of our heritage, our hopes, and the belief that every musical score played and every heart touched brings us closer together,” she concluded.
For more news and updates on Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, visit Filipinokami.com.
