Konsyerto at Pagsamba: An Afternoon of Heritage and Hope

Konsyerto at Pagsamba: An Afternoon of Heritage and Hope

Performers from various parishes in Toronto unite to sing ‘Bayan Ko’

June 30, 2024

By Leny Rose Simbre

TORONTO–Asbury and West United Church at 3180 Bathurst St, North York , Toronto hosted “Konsyerto at Pagsamba,” a memorable event celebrating Filipino Heritage Month that seamlessly blended cultural pride, community solidarity, and a powerful call for justice. Organized by Bayan Canada, Migrante Ontario, Philippine Advocacy Through Arts and Culture (PATAC), Malaya Toronto, and the Pinoy Overseas Coalition Against Charter Change (POCHA), the event united the Filipino-Canadian community to honor their heritage and support crucial causes in the Philippines.

The afternoon commenced with an opening prayer by Rev. Ariel Siagan, followed by a welcome address from Ben Corpuz, President of Philippine Advocacy Through Arts & Culture (PATAC), who emphasized the importance of Filipino Heritage Month and the community’s collective strength. The event featured performances from the Iglesia Filipina Independiente-Parish of Holy Child Music Ministry, who enthralled the audience with traditional Filipino songs such as “Sampaguita,” “Manang Biday,” “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” and “Mabuhay ka IFI!”.  Ben Corpuz and Norman Tanegra performed stirring songs like “Ama Naming Kumikilos,” “Panata sa Kalayaan,” “Awit ng Pag-asa,” and “Awit ng Proletaryo,” under the theme “Tanod Bukid.” The cultural dancers from Asbury and West United Church captivated the audience with the traditional “Tinikling” dance. The United Church of Christ Voices of the People, accompanied by pianist Joel Tangjerd, performed uplifting songs including “You Are My Light” and “When You Believe.” The performers were adorned in traditional Filipiniana costumes, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and indigenous garments of the Philippines.

The United Church of Christ Voices of the People performed uplifting songs at the event.

Wilma Delo, Chair of Bayan Canada, delivered a heartfelt message and presented a recognition award to the late Paulina Corpuz, the proponent of Filipino Heritage Month through her husband Ben Corpuz . Olivia Camacho, Malaya Toronto Convenor, highlighted the importance of unity and activism within the Filipino-Canadian community and aligning with the call to reject Charter Change (ChaCha) in observance of ‘Araw ng Kalayaan.’ She asserted that ‘Changes to the Philippine Constitution are neither necessary nor urgent but must be preserved and safeguarded against political interests. 

Leny Rose Simbre of Migrante Ontario also  delivered a solidarity speech, urging everyone to support and contribute to the Desaparecidos and Hustisya’s School Drive and the children in need in the Philippines. She highlighted that “Konsyerto at Pagsamba” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the event, stating, “Konsyerto symbolizes our collective voice, raised in song and celebration, while Pagsamba reflects our deep faith and reverence.”

Hermie Cariaga’s performance of the patriotic song “Ako ay Pilipino” deeply resonated with the audience. In a moving ensemble, all performers united to sing “Bayan Ko,” accompanied by pianist Adrian She. Ruth Silencino led the national anthem “Lupang Hinirang,” followed by a flag display.

RJ and Al Quinn delivered an unexpected performance and expressed their desire to collaborate with the organizers for upcoming cultural events. RJ is a member of AnakBayan Scarborough and Al Quinn is from Migrante Ontario.

The afternoon concluded with a benediction by Fr. Dante Coloma from the IFI Parish of the Holy Child Toronto, blessing the gathering and the causes supported by the event. “Konsyerto at Pagsamba” was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino-Canadian community. The blend of music, dance, and heartfelt messages created a narrative of resilience and hope, ensuring that rich cultural traditions are preserved and cherished. Directed by Lui Queano, and emceed by Hannah Sabit and Kyan, the event was a remarkable success.

Attendees enjoyed food and refreshments, fostering a sense of community as the event wrapped up with camaraderie and cleanup.

The Iglesia Filipina Independiente-Parish of Holy Child Music Ministry captivated the audience with traditional Filipino melodies such as ‘Manang Biday’

Wilma Delo, Chair of Bayan Canada, presents a recognition award to Paulina Corpuz, the proponent of Filipino Heritage Month, through her husband Ben Corpuz, with Livy Camacho.

Hermie Cariaga delivered the patriotic song ‘Ang Bayan Ko’ and performed with cultural dancers from Asbury and West United Church, captivating the audience with the traditional ‘Tinikling’ dance.

Livy Camacho, Malaya Toronto Convenor, delivers her solidarity speech and call to reject and resist Charter Change.