All-Kundiman Night: Arthur Espiritu leads fundraising concert at MiraNila

A rare evening of Filipino music is set to take place this May as internationally acclaimed tenor Arthur Espiritu headlines his first-ever all-kundiman concert, Mga Awit ng Pag-ibig at Kundiman. Happening on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Gallery MiraNila in Quezon City, the one-night-only performance also serves as a fundraising initiative for heritage conservation.

Presented by MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with The Blue Leaf, the concert brings together a distinguished lineup of artists who share a deep connection to Filipino musical traditions. Espiritu is joined by award-winning soprano Stefanie Quintin-Avila and celebrated pianist Najib Ismail, creating a program that highlights both vocal and instrumental excellence. The evening also pays tribute to Ambassador Tomas C. Benitez, whose passion for kundiman helped preserve its place in Filipino cultural life.

Arthur Espiritu

 

Stephanie Quintin-Avila and Najib Ismail

At the heart of the concert is a curated selection drawn from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ newly recorded 13-track archive. This project, developed in collaboration with the Manila Chamber Orchestra Foundation, marks a significant step in digitally preserving Filipino classics performed by some of the country’s finest voices. The repertoire traces the evolution of kundiman, from its roots in patriotic expression to its transformation into zarzuela, love songs, and modern art music. Works by composers such as Nicanor Abelardo, Francisco Santiago, Constancio de Guzman, Ernani Cuenco, Levi Celerio, and Augusto Espino will be featured, offering a rich look at the musical figures who shaped the nation’s sound.

Espiritu, known for his performances on major international stages, arrives fresh from his title role in Prince Igor at the Munich Opera House. A recipient of the George London Award and the Scala Award at the Belvedere Competition in Vienna, he has built a global reputation for his powerful tone and commanding presence. His return to a repertoire rooted in Filipino tradition gives this concert a distinct sense of homecoming. Quintin-Avila, recognized for her clarity and range, reunites with Espiritu following their acclaimed collaboration in 2024. She continues to gain international attention, with an upcoming appearance at the Gleam International Early Music Festival in Belgium. Completing the trio is Ismail, whose career across Europe, Asia, and Australia has been marked by a strong commitment to promoting Filipino composers, making him a fitting musical anchor for the evening.

Beyond the performance, the concert carries a deeper purpose. All proceeds will support the MiraNila Conservation Program, which has been instrumental in restoring vulnerable artworks and is now focused on urgent structural repairs after severe flooding in 2025 affected the 94-year-old heritage house. The event offers audiences not only a chance to experience world-class music but also an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Guests can expect an immersive evening that begins with registration and access to the gallery, accompanied by refreshments. Heritage house tours will be available in the early part of the program, offering a closer look at the site’s history and architecture. The concert itself runs from 6:30 PM to 8:10 PM with an intermission, followed by a meet and greet with the artists. Food and refreshments will continue to be available until the evening concludes.

Tickets are offered under a free seating arrangement, with early bird rates available until March 29 at ₱2,000 for adults and ₱1,500 for seniors, PWDs, and students with valid IDs. Regular rates are set at ₱2,500 for adults and ₱2,000 for discounted groups. Special items tied to the NCCA recordings will also be available for purchase, including a vinyl LP and a secure digital card edition.

For inquiries and ticket reservations, guests may contact the event organizer via Viber at 09458530963, preferably between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM for faster response.

With its combination of music, history, and purpose, Mga Awit ng Pag-ibig at Kundiman positions itself as more than just a concert. It is a gathering that brings together artists, audiences, and advocates in support of preserving Filipino identity through both sound and space.

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Theater Review: Dulaang UP's "Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan"

Dulaang UP’s Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan takes on the familiar yet still urgent story of the overseas Filipino worker, using an intimate staging and a mix of theatrical forms to bring the experience closer to its audience. While the production succeeds in creating emotional access, it also shows some unevenness in how its ideas are carried through.

At the center is Sandino Martin as Bulan, who delivers a steady and sincere performance. He keeps the character grounded, especially in quieter moments where the weight of isolation is more felt than spoken. His portrayal becomes the anchor of the play, particularly when the material shifts between tones.

The staging works in the production’s favor. The intimate setup allows the audience to feel involved rather than just observing from a distance. Projections are used throughout and are generally well integrated, helping set the mood and context without taking attention away from the actors. These choices support the storytelling and give the play a strong visual identity.

The show also attempts to combine several disciplines, including musical elements, drama, puppetry, and advocacy. At its best, this mix adds variety and keeps the performance engaging. However, not all transitions feel smooth. Some segments stand out more than others, making the overall flow feel uneven at times. The versatility of the set helps bridge these shifts, but the structure can still feel fragmented.

The first part of the play is one of its stronger sections. It presents a relatable picture of an OFW returning home, from the frustration of traffic to the sudden closeness of family members. These moments are handled with warmth and familiarity, capturing the mix of comfort and tension that comes with going back to one’s roots. The sense of nostalgia is clear and effective, giving the audience an easy point of connection.

A key highlight is the exchange between Bulan and his older sister. Their dialogue is direct and emotionally charged, offering some of the most honest moments in the play. The sister’s lines carry insight and lived experience, and the tension between them feels real. This scene stands out because it is clear, focused, and grounded.

Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan raises important points about distance, family, and survival, but does not always sustain the same level of clarity across its runtime. It is at its strongest when it leans into simple, truthful moments rather than layered concepts.

The production runs until March 29 at the IBG-KAL Theater in UP Diliman.

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Medium Rare Special Edition to bring Spanish Techno and Italian Neoclassical music to Manila

The acclaimed immersive event series Medium Rare returns with a new Special Edition on Saturday, May 9, transforming Salon de Ning at the Peninsula Manila into a multi-sensory night where music, gastronomy, and art converge.

Running from 7:00 PM until 4:00 AM, the one-night event will unite international and local artists in an elegant cross-cultural experience designed to introduce new sounds and artistic dialogue to Manilaʼs nightlife and cultural community.

With limited tickets available, the event promises an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere for music lovers, creatives, and tastemakers.

This special edition will feature Spanish electronic music producer Pablo Bolívar, known internationally for his hypnotic blend of techno and ambient soundscapes. With more than two decades in the underground electronic scene, Bolívar has built a reputation for his deeply melodic productions and atmospheric live performances, as well as for founding influential labels Seven Villas Music and Avantroots Records.

Joining the lineup are Italian musicians Lorenzo Travaglini and Davide Semmarchi, representing Bosco Studio, whose contemporary neoclassical compositions blend classical piano traditions with modern cinematic textures. Their appearance marks their first visit to Asia, where they will not only perform but also engage with the local music community through cultural and educational initiatives.

Beyond the stage, the collaboration reflects Medium Rareʼs mission to foster cultural exchange through music and creative experiences. During their stay in Manila, the Italian artists will participate in workshops at universities, designed for young musicians and music students eager to explore new forms of composition and artistic collaboration.

A Curated Cultural Experience
“Medium Rare is a curated sensory experience that unites three worlds — music, gastronomy and art. This unique event brings together Manilaʼs food lovers and music crowd into one sophisticated, flavorful and unforgettable experience.”

The concept behind Medium Rare is to blur the boundaries between cultural disciplines, creating an immersive environment where audiences can experience live music, culinary creativity, and artistic expression simultaneously.

Expanding Cultural Horizons
One of the organizers shared that this edition of Medium Rare aims to broaden cultural perspectives by bringing together artists from different parts of Europe and the Philippines. “This time we are bringing Spanish and Italian artists with the support of two embassies and the Philippine–Italian Association to expand the perspective of our guests and blend cultures to create something entirely new.”

For the musicians of Bosco Studio, the trip represents both a professional and personal milestone. “This will be our first visit to Asia. We are excited to discover Filipino culture, explore the local music scene, and collaborate with Filipino musicians to create something together.”

About Medium Rare
Medium Rare is an immersive cultural event series that merges electronic music, contemporary art, and gastronomy into a single curated experience. Designed for a sophisticated international audience, the project connects Manilaʼs creative community, food enthusiasts, and music lovers through carefully crafted events that highlight both global talent and local collaborations.

About Bosco Studio
Bosco Studio is an Italian creative collective exploring the intersection of neoclassical music, contemporary composition, and cinematic sound design. Their work combines traditional piano performance with modern sonic experimentation, creating atmospheric musical narratives that bridge classical and contemporary worlds.

Limited tickets only. For further details, contact Nadia Zojkas c/o pr@mediumraremusik.com or WhatsApp: +6285962673399

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FEU presents Pundaquit Virtuosi in "The Seven Last Words by Joseph Haydn" on March 31

Far Eastern University through the FEU Center for the Arts presents the Pundaquit Virtuosi from Zambales in Haydn's Seven Last Words of Jesus Christ with reflections in between in the FEU Chapel surrounded by The Stations of the Cross, a National Cultural Treasure by National Artist Carlos "Botong" Francisco.

The FEU Center for the Arts (FCA) continues its Tutti Concert Series with Tutti Strings, featuring the Pundaquit Virtuosi from Zambales in a special Lenten performance of The Seven Last Words of Jesus Christ by Joseph Haydn.

Presented in partnership with the FEU Campus Ministry, this free concert will take place on March 31 at 5 PM at the FEU Chapel, offering the Tamaraw community a moving musical reflection in preparation for Holy Week.

FEU Chapel

Adding a unique dimension to the performance, each of the Seven Last Words will be accompanied by a short reflection delivered by representatives from the FEU Community.

Founded in the quiet coastal village of Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales, the Pundaquit Virtuosi is led by internationally renowned Filipino violinist Coke Bolipata. Through his vision, music education has become accessible to children in the community, transforming lives and nurturing young talents through classical training and performance opportunities. What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a respected ensemble known for its heartfelt performances and advocacy for arts education.

Pundaquit Virtuosi

Stations of the Cross by Carlos "Botong" Francisco

Coke Bolipata

Reflecting on the significance of the featured piece, Bolipata shares, “Haydn’s Seven Last Words is a rare piece of music: one that invites stillness. It does not dramatize Christ’s suffering so much as meditates on it.”

Composed in 1786, Joseph Haydn’s The Seven Last Words of Christ is a deeply contemplative masterpiece originally written for Good Friday services in Cádiz, Spain. The work consists of seven sonatas, each reflecting one of Christ’s final utterances on the Cross, framed by a solemn introduction and a powerful concluding movement. Revered for its emotional depth and spiritual intensity, the piece invites listeners into quiet meditation through expressive melodies and profound musical storytelling.

The concert is open to all but with limited seats available through pre-registration via the QR code on the poster or the registration link below.

Interested attendees may also contact the FEU Center for the Arts through its official platforms for further inquiries.

Reserve your seat through this registration link: https://forms.office.com/r/Tb3m5a9W49.
For more info, follow the FEU Center for the Arts at https://www.facebook.com/FEUcenterfortheArts
Email: fca@feu.edu.ph

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Randy Ortiz Man #Unofficial40 Menswear show set on March 19

The show aptly titled "Randy O. Man" menswear collection is a bridge of the spring- summer and fall-winter for 2026 featuring club, lounge, leisure, and formal fits of various silhouettes using fresh and vibrant hues, cool and soft colors, warm and earthy tones, bold and darker palettes to capture each season.

 

The 'strictly by invitation' event is the 1st major men's show of Randy Ortiz which aims to reintroduce Men's Wear in the retail landscape and to cater to the ever growing vanity of the modern Filipino Man.

Randy O. Man will be staged and directed by Mr. Jackie Aquino of JCA Productions in collaboration with Ms. Angel Ortiz of AF Eventbiz in partnership with The Peninsula Manila.

The collaborators are Eric Maningat for grooming; guest DJ Bombi Balquiedra; furniture by Moodie; Lights and Sounds by Forsc Ink; staging by Ralph&Co; Avignon; Ralph's Wines; Lito Sy Photography; Jason Magbanua Film; video highlights by Amady; Emirates; Belo medical Group; SMB Premium Beers; Pilgrims Coffee; Memovid 360 Studio; MIB photo Studio; FIC Ice Cream; Linkage Inc; Ilumi Cosmetiques.

The sunset show features 30 of the best professional male and female local and international models plus surprise appearances of muses who are celebrities and prime movers in their respective industries.

Ms.Tweetie De Leon Gonzales and Ms.Apples Aberin shall present Randy O in an evening of precision men's and women's sartorial fused with music coming from a saxophonist, a mixture of DJ and reels combined with a live led broadcast and social media streaming.

For almost four decades, RANDY ORTIZ personally have experienced the best tailors in his career doing formal men's clothing as a regular part of their job for grooms, celebrities, top CEO's and public servants.

 

It is lucrative and a worthwhile endeavor but making contemporary, trendy ready to wear and really pushing the men's line of Randy Ortiz brand out there again for everyone is still part of his passion and dream.

Randy Ortiz was able to go mainstream in the 90's via Manila Hotel's Moda Maynila, an all men's collection which catapulted to the consciousness of the who's who of Manila.

The bespoke and off the rack menswear gained so much traction though it was avante garde that time when the Philippine men's Fashion was still confined to basics, classics, and simple outfits.

 

 

He pioneered as the first designer to revolutionize the way Pinoys view grooming and styling through precision men's sartorial and bespoke, putting colors and pieces together, shirts and vests with print on print, and more pieces that go beyond a typical male's comfort zone.

Fast forward to 2026, Randy sees and feel that the time is now - being fashionable is not only for women but for every Pinoy who is a go-getter, a fierce competitor, and a man on a mission.

Being in the industry for more than 38 years, Randy Ortiz noticed that Filipino men's fashion especially for the luxe and lifestyle segment has not been given its due attention in the last 10-15 years. But after the pandemic, a dramatic shift in the psyche of vanity among Pinoy men has expanded to Hair and Skincare, Fitness and exploring the unlimited boundaries of fashion.

Men now are vain - they aspire for dream cars, luxury watches which is a great synergy and partnership of the Randy Ortiz brand with the companies that cater to luxury and lifestyle.

Randy is now going full circle and going back to his roots as a men's designer - his first love and undoubtedly one of our core strengths as a designer.

It's a man's world right now, being boring and conservative is dated, men's penchant for the better things in life and looking great is a thing of the now and the future and Randy's brand is a solid fit for that vanity.

He will still be pushing the buttons and limits of Pinoy masculinity with a healthy restraint with his famous signature "randy dandy" which took retail by storm back then. And very soon, these collection will be available for retail.

The signature Randy O will always be there and his stamp will be a reflection of how the Philippines Men's Scene fashion has also evolved throughout the years.

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ROSÉ leads Levi’s “Behind Every Original” Campaign

Global denim brand Levi's continues to celebrate creativity and individuality with its latest campaign, “Behind Every Original.” At the center of the campaign is Rosé, the global star from BLACKPINK, who joins Levi’s as one of its global brand ambassadors.

 

The campaign highlights a collective of creators whose personal stories shape culture today. Through music, fashion, sports, and art, these individuals embody what it truly means to be original. “Behind Every Original” brings together a diverse group of ambassadors whose creativity continues to influence their respective industries.

“When I create something new, I start with myself. Each project begins with a clear vision—one I carefully shape and bring into the world,” shared Rosé. For her, originality begins with authenticity—something that perfectly aligns with Levi’s legacy of self-expression through denim.

Rosé’s artistry is rooted in intention and self-expression. Known for her distinctive voice and effortless style, she approaches every project with a strong creative vision. Her partnership with Levi’s highlights denim as a timeless staple—one that evolves with the person wearing it. In the campaign, Rosé brings a refined yet relaxed aesthetic, showing how classic denim pieces can feel both personal and modern.

Artist Doechii represents bold creativity. Her fearless approach to music and style reflects the same spirit of individuality that Levi’s has championed for generations.

NBA star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander brings a multidisciplinary perspective to the campaign, drawing inspiration from the world around him and translating it into his personal style.

For musician and producer Questlove, Levi’s is tied to a formative memory—one that ultimately played a role in the early days of The Roots.

Model Stefanie Giesinger represents relaxed authenticity, embracing denim in its most natural form—comfortable, personal, and timeless.

For decades, Levi’s has been more than a denim brand—it has been a symbol of individuality and cultural expression. The “Behind Every Original” campaign continues that legacy by spotlighting creators whose stories inspire others to embrace their own originality.

With Rosé leading the campaign alongside a global roster of artists and innovators, Levi’s reminds us that behind every iconic style is something even more powerful: the person who wears it.

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Dulaang UP’s thriving fresh Talents, returning Alumni and Collaborators

Dulaang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (DUP) has been a home for Filipino theatre talent to flourish for almost 5 decades since its founding by National Artist for Theatre Tony Mabesa. Alumni and past collaborators have gone on to pave their own unique paths in the creative and entertainment industry, some taking their learnings to explore other fields as well. Whether the artist performs, directs, writes, designs, researches or manages, passion and out of the box thinking is embedded within the DUP training into each student and colleague.

In their 48th Theatre Season, “Paano umuwi nang may pagpapasya?” Dulaang UP picks up on probing the question of intentionality in coming home through looking back at their humble beginnings building upon the nearing 50th Theatre Season. Sir Tony’s legacy lives on with the university-based company bringing their student-artists, collaborators, and alumni at the forefront, initiated by their recently staged first ever all student-led twin-bill production, Para Kay Tony: Tungo sa Ginintuang Alaala, A Tribute to our National Artist for Theatre Tony Mabesa.

Continuing the discourse on homecoming and widening their student spaces, their production in the works is a revival of UP Playwrights’ Theatre (renamed to DUP Playwrights now on its 29th Theatre Season): Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan, written and directed by Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature multi-awarded playwright, returning alumni and newly-appointed Artistic Director, Arlo Deguzman.

Written from a place of diasporic experience, this piece is a powerful and contemporary work that tackles the emotional landscape of and an ode to our present day heroes, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). These stories, embodied in movement and lyric, aim to negotiate the melancholically veiled struggles of an OFW: a father’s frustration from unending remittances, a mother seeking to make the sacrifice worthwhile, a sister negotiating the promise of separation, and a son bearing the silence of a deafening burden. DUP invites us to contemplate on our origins and bids for connection and home.

Industry professionals and students will work more closely with each other as alumni, returning and new guest artists lead the ensemble with Sandino Martin, Tess Jamias, Fermin Villegas, Sheryll Ceasico, Marichu Belarmino, Jojo Cayabyab, Hazel Maranan, Domileo Espejo, and Mitzie Lao. Current artist-scholars Kerr Allen, Angel Manansala, Raymond Aguilar, Julianne Quimio, Ralph Onrubia, Janae Delos Santos, and Cy Guerrero craft their own creative footprint alongside the professionals.

The artistic team is likewise a team of alumni, previous guest artists, and artists-in-training — from freshmen to graduating students. Joining Arlo Deguzman are Angel Dayao for Music Direction and Sound Design — together with Neil Shane Alcain and Jisu Jang, siglo for Puppetry Design, Jonas Gabriel Garcia for Dramaturgy, Kirby Dunnzell as Movement Collaborator, Dan Wesley as Associate Movement Collaborator, Aaron Misayah leading the Scenic Design, Tilda Oreta for Costume Design, Third Salamat for Lighting Design, and Jada Bartolome for Projection Design.

The production will run from March 12, 2026 to March 29, 2026 at the IBG-KAL Theater, UP Diliman; Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30PM, and Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30PM and 7:30PM. Tickets are available via Ticket2Me.net and direct purchase (https://bit.ly/AKKDirectPurchaseForm) with the following prices:

• Php 1,000 - Regular Price
• Php 800 - PWD / Senior Citizens / Non-UP Students
• Php 700 - OFWs—current and former, ticket is transferable; available via direct purchase
• Php 650 - UP Community (Students and Employees): Friday–Sunday shows; available via direct purchase
• Php 550 - UP Community (Students and Employees): Thursday shows; available via direct purchase

Note that discounts/promos are not stackable on each other.

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