Pasinaya 2013: Rediscovering Philippine Arts & Culture

In today's modern times, I still recognize that the past is interrelated with the present, and what we are today is the result of what has transpired in the past. Hence, our artistic abilities and cultural heritage should be preserved and passed on from generation to generation.

The Philippine culture has given us a glimpse of the glorious past through various artistic renditions that make us feel the unity and camaraderie of being a Filipino. It is in our culture to be creative and artistic as a means of emotional expression. It is something that bridges the gap between loyalty and colonial mentality. It creates solidarity as a nation and everlasting bliss in the hearts of Filipinos living throughout the world.

To enliven Philippine culture and arts, the Cultural Center of the Philippines created the Pasinaya festival to fulfill Filipino artists' and cultural enthusiasts' desires and passions in various genres. "Pasinaya" is a Filipino term that means a formal opening. This year's theme pays tribute to Chinese arts and culture's influence on Filipino lives.

The Chinese have long been part of Philippine history and culture, and their massive influence remains. It was an excellent opportunity to witness and embrace Filipino and Chinese arts and culture through the Pasinaya festival.

Dubbed the largest national multi-arts festival, the 'Pasinaya' presented memorable cultural presentations and art exhibits in almost all CCP venues. The main theater lobby was full of visitors, primarily students, and professors from different schools, patiently waiting for the next event at the 'Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo,' where the resident companies of the CCP are performing their shows, including the Philippine Madrigal Singers, The Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company, Ballet Philippines, and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

Several presentations and activities in genres like dance, theater, music, films, visual arts, and exhibits were presented by thousands of Filipino artists from different regions of the country. There were various shows like the lion dance, fan dance, and modern hip-hop dance, as well as the CCP's closed street venue.

There were also dance, music, and stage drama workshops for children and adults to learn and enhance their skills.

In the main theater ramp, several groups presented folk dances. Their graceful interpretation of colorful costumes has entertained the crowd of both local and foreign audiences. It was a great moment to watch the young performers across the country showcasing their dance skills in classical Filipino music. 

From elementary school through college, I was like them, a member of the school dance troupe and presenting different folk dances on stage. The joy felt while performing before the audience is quite reminiscent, which is why I patronize Filipino cultural presentations and activities.

The main theater of 'Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo' is where I spent most of the time witnessing the performances of the resident companies. I was delighted to watch the 'Bayanihan Cultural Dance Company' when they presented beautiful folk dances. They have presented the 'Pandango sa Ilaw and 'Wasiwas,' both popular Philippine folk dances that made me proud of being a former folk dancer who happens to have presented those two dances way back in high school and college.

The Philippine folk dance is truly the epitome of grace, grandeur, and refined techniques that are becoming obsolete in today's world.

During the gala night, the Performers of the Pasinaya Festival 2013 presented and performed the Philippine Madrigal Singers, whichrs is truly soulful singing that captures the audience's emotions. Their company is undeniably one of the world's best and most awarded chorales. It has won prestigious awards and recognition from international choral competitions. The 'Madz,' as they call it, sings in a semi-circle without the aid of a conductor. Their soft and angelic voices deserve applause from the audience regardless of musical genre, from classical and folkloric music to contemporary music.

Under their music director, Maestro Oliver Ochanine, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra rendered the enchanting melody of some classical symphonies and even modern popular Filipino music. They received numerous applause from the audience, who appreciated what authentic music should be. Their mastery of musical instruments is majestic and produces stunning rhythmic sounds. My regard for classical music and symphonies will remain my appreciation for this artistic, lyrical masterpiece.

The 'Pasinaya Festival 2013' brought lessons and new learning. Our culture is diverse and rich —it is a heritage. Thus, there is a need to preserve, protect, love, care, and respect. Our arts and culture are what we are Filipinos and should show to the world.

© 2013 Del Cusay

Alluring Walk at the Japanese Garden

A little sanctuary in the busy Metropolis of Manila is a Japanese garden to honor the friendship between the two great cultures. The garden near Rizal Park offers nature lovers a serene environment suitable for strolling and meditating. 

What makes this Japanese garden truly unique is the infusion of Filipino elements, creating a delightful blend of two distinct cultures. The park, while well-maintained, also holds the promise of further evolution, with potential improvements that could enhance its modernity and Japanese essence.

A little Japanese pagoda serves as the main entrance, with Japanese grass on the aisle that is a pleasantly alluring walk towards the greener foliage of the garden. The landscape makes it a good place for growing trees and shrubs, and the lush greenery ambiance genuinely soothes the senses, making it healthy for an early morning walk and exercise.

Inside is the veranda for relaxation or other activities like meditation or recollection. One just needs to sit down and relax and enjoy the stillness of the place and the calmness it offers. A momentary relief from stress is experienced if one has to do deep breathing and physical awareness.

The lawn on the hilly side, adorned with shrubs and Japanese bamboo, exudes a revitalizing energy. Observing the bamboo's resilience against the wind, its ability to sway and bend without losing its firm root, is a powerful metaphor for life's challenges. Just like the bamboo, we too can weather the storms and remain steadfast, embracing life's natural flow.

The Japanese bamboo looks thin and weak but has survived the extreme weather and even the aftermath of a typhoon. There's no room to look down on oneself or others despite who and what you are. Like bamboo, people may look weak but are strong and continue to grow and achieve the maximum result.

Although an arch bridge is more elegant, a flat bridge across the pond is fantastic if one has to reach the other side of the garden. Built-in concrete and wooden materials add a little aesthetics and charm to the park.

A pebbled pathway invites you to a leisurely stroll, offering glimpses of the evergreen trees, rock formations, and ornamental features. The garden, enclosed within a perimeter fence, bestows a sense of exclusivity, making local and foreign tourists feel privileged to witness its unique beauty.

A piece of art commonly displayed in a Japanese garden is a 'gong,' a percussion instrument used in ancient Japanese tradition to honor the presence of a higher authority. It has a low and monotone sound but can reach maximum loudness when struck forcefully. A visitor can strike the gong with the mallet using minimal force to produce a sound. Succeeding strikes can be made strongly, producing different tones if desired.

Visiting the Japanese garden is worthwhile, and coming back can be irresistible. An excellent place to escape from too much environmental noise and to give oneself a rejuvenating experience⁠— not in a faraway place, but only in the heart of the metropolis.

© 2013 Del Cusay

Celebrating The Feast of Sto. Niño de Tondo

The feast of Sto. Niño de Tondo, a celebration steeped in rich historical significance, has been integral to our cultural and religious heritage for centuries. Its roots can be traced back to the 16th century when an Augustinian friar established it. The church, perched on elevated land in Tondo, Manila, is a testament to our enduring faith and traditions, connecting us to our rich past.

The feast is celebrated on the third Sunday of January, which is significant religiously. This day has been visited by thousands of devotees and pilgrims nationwide. Several activities are witnessed, including the fluvial procession of the holy image of Sto. Niño, mass celebration, and street dancing.

As I celebrated the mass on this day, I was struck by the sight of thousands gathered inside the church and near the parish. The presence of infants and toddlers, carried by their parents to receive Divine blessings, was a powerful testament to our collective faith. This feast fosters a profound sense of community, where we all come together to celebrate our shared beliefs and values.

The relic of Sto. Niño, a representation of the child Jesus, is considered one of the oldest in the country. The Spanish authorities brought it to influence and embrace Christianity as a religion, making it a symbol of religious faith. This act played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in the Philippines. Since then, the devotees have shared many miracles that made it widely known as it is today.

In Cebu City, located in the central Philippines, the feast of Sto. Niño de Cebu is also celebrated by millions of Cebuanos and visitors from different places in the Philippines. Even foreign tourists visit the city to witness the grand parade known as the 'Sinulog Festival, a spectacular event featuring a grand procession of beautifully adorned floats, colorful costumes, and lively street dancing.

The 'Sinulog' is a vibrant and colorful festival that is a significant part of the Sto. Niño de Cebu celebration. Niño de Cebu celebration. Several groups or tribes, known as 'Sinulog contingents, 'are dressed elegantly and dance gracefully, along with the beat of drums and other instruments. This yearly event, known as the 'Sinulog Festival, 'features a grand procession of beautifully adorned floats, colorful costumes, and lively street dancing. It captures the attention of many people and is visited by millions just to participate and celebrate in honor of Sto. Niño.

Many places in the country celebrate the feast of Sto. Niño and shows the religious devotion of the people to the child Jesus. Despite the misfortune and misery in people's lives, faith in God is still a powerful weapon to remain strong and faithful.

It takes courage and determination to be optimistic in times of difficulty, and the Filipino people have shown remarkable resilience and survival. The colorful costumes, the magnificent parades, and the festive atmosphere are not just for show; they celebrate our unwavering faith and the indomitable strength we draw from it. They are a testament to our ability to overcome adversity and remain faithful.

Viva Sto. Niño!

© 2013 Del Cusay