CITY OF KORONADAL — The world-renowned UP Symphony Orchestra (UPSO), the official system-wide orchestra of the University of the Philippines (UP) under the baton of Maestro Josefino Chino Toledo performed in a benefit concert dubbed “Seasons of Love” at the South Cotabato Gymnasium & Cultural Center, this city, last March 16 (Saturday).
Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) awardees Bondus Faerra (for brasscasting), Barbbara Ofong (for t’nalak weaving) and Boie Rosie Sula (for chanting) attended the event. Sula performed her trademark chant in front of the audience.
Vice-Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr,.and City Mayor Eliordo U. Ogena gave their respective message of support. Preesident Ferdinand E. Marcos Jr. and 2nd District Congressman Peter B. Miguel likewise rendered their messages via zoom.
South Cotabato Family Rondalla performed an intermission number.
The concert is for the benefit of scholars studying in UP Manila School of Health Sciences (UPM-SHS),which accordingly, comes from marginalized backgrounds and are committed to become healthcare professionals serving the unserved communities in the country.
Prior to their one-night performance here, the 65-member orchestra performed at the XII China – ASEAN Music Festival hosted by Guangxi Arts University in China and Kaohsiung, Taiwan tjis year where they were well-acclaimed.
UPSO performs Filipino, Asian, contemporary and new works in addition to standard orchestra repertoire.
Aside from South Cotabato LGu, the City Government of Koronadal and the Department of Tourism sponsored the event.
Titere pegged at P2,500, P1,500, P1,000 and P700,
