
Ballet Philippines (BP) was choreographed by Natl. Artist for Dance Alice Reyes. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
Photos By
Jude Thaddeus L. Bautista
Note from Editor: The CCP 50th Anniversary Gala held last September 20-21, 2019 was the best of the best in Philippine dance, music and theater. It was a summation of the last 50 years’ most significant work featuring masterpieces of National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, Ramon N Santos, Lucrecia Kasilag, Lucio San Pedro, National Artist for Literature Bien Lumbera, National Artist for Theater Rolando Tinio, National Artist for Dance Alice Reyes (and many more).
Their compositions, words and choreography were brought to life by the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company, Ballet Philippines, Monique Wilson, Joanna Ampil, Gian Magdangal, Philippine Madrigal Singers and many more.

from left: Natl. Artist for Music Ramon N Santos, CCP Chairwoman Margie Moran Floirendo, Artist Marivic Rufino and Portugal Consul Antonio Rufino. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
Perhaps a bigger cause than the momentous celebration is to raise funds for the renovation and rehabilitation of the CCP itself. This is where the speech of CCP Chairwoman Board of Trustees Margie Moran-Floirendo (provided below) has gone into great detail. And also after the speech listed below are the performers of the very prestigious celebration.–Jude Bautista

Monique Wilson and Gian Magdangal sang an arrangement by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab with libretto by National Artist for Literature Bien Lumbera from Rizalia suite. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
Speech of CCP Chairwoman Board of Trustees Margie Moran-Floirendo during the BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert:
In 1969 after the decades long quest of countless Filipino artists and government officials a national theater rose on the reclaimed land along Roxas Boulevard and served as a beacon of Philippine arts and culture. Establishing a national center for the arts and culture was no easy feat. The journey took 3 years.

CCP Chairwoman Margie Moran Floirendo; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
On April 1966 the plan to construct, establish and maintain in a single site a national theater, a national music hall, an art and such other buildings and facilities had been brewing. The aim was to build a center that would be at the forefront in preserving, promoting and developing the Philippine arts while awakening the Filipino consciousness and appreciation of Philippine heritage.
Philippine Airlines: Business Class Reimagined
The challenge came in finding the capital for its construction. Through the initiation of then former First Lady Imelda Marcos the most ambitious fundraising initiative happened. By June of that year the actual construction began. The building was designed by a group of architects led by Leandro Locsin who eventually became a National Artist for Architecture.
The team also included Yldefonso Santos Jr. who also later became a National Artist for Architecture. 3 years later in September 1969, the Cultural Center of the Philippines finally opened its doors for the premiere of the Golden Salakot ISANG LARAWAN.
In 1986 the CCP went through a significant period of reinvention. Filipino works were given priority. Programs were decentralized with an emphasis on art making in the regions. Access to art works were decentralized with more shows being made more affordable and free to the public.

Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group performs Pansak from Basilan with Batang Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
50 years since its founding the CCP still makes arts matter to every Filipino. With an average of 800 shows concerts, dance productions, literary events and exhibitions. Annually, we provide diverse artistic and cultural experience to the broadest audiences. The CCP remains true to its vision to become the leading art institution, not just in the country but in the whole of Asia.

Joanna Ampil sang a stirring medley of West End hits. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
We at the CCP believe that Filipino artists would be encouraged to explore new ways of self-expression, expand their horizons and encourage to aspire national and international recognition. We provide training, workshops, seminars and other similar programs to develop the talents and creativity of Filipino artists.

from left: Rustans CEO Nedy Tantoco, Tessie Endriga, Marietta Goco, Helen Lizaso and CCP Chairwoman Margie Moreno Floirendo. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
At the same time we have projects that focus on art appreciation and art education to make people aware of the importance and benefits of art participation. We have strengthened our outreach programs to reach out to more people in the regions.
Tonight we celebrate this milestone. We reminisce our victories and recollect the challenges that we have overcome to be where we are today. We remember the people who at one point of their lives have performed, worked and called CCP their home.
We commemorate our storied past and anticipate what the future holds. But tonight’s show is more than just a celebration. It is an appeal to the Filipino people, to the audiences who have found solace here. 50 years is a long time and this building is showing signs of the times. While some are visible some are less obvious. Our home needs major, tender loving care.

Ballet Philippines (BP) was choreographed by Natl. Artist for Dance Alice Reyes. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (10)
The main building is now in need of major renovation and technical upgrading if it is to remain as a cultural landmark and a leading showcase of the performing arts. Tonight’s show launches our five-year fund raising project to raise 1 billion pesos in cash, supplies and or services for the rehabilitation of the CCP.

from left: Hosts Celeste Legaspi, Shamaine Centenera Buencamino and Nonie Buencamino; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
We have the most talented artists. They need the best facilities we can provide. The renovation projects aim to provide the best facility for the production and presentation of performing arts and visual arts in the Philippines. With the facility upgrades we hope to provide enhanced performing arts experience. Pleasing both the artist local and international alike and the audiences.

Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company Performs Las Mayas. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (13)
The funds raised will go to structural rehabilitation including electrical and plumbing renovations, purchasing new art lighting and sound equipment, upgrading fire systems installing security systems even Wi-Fi connectivity, interior designing and landscaping, rehabilitating the hydraulic system of the main theater’s orchestra pit among others.

Candice Adea and Julio Blanes courtesy of West Australian Ballet. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
More than just saving the building it is the pride of the artist as they enter the artists’ entrance to practice at the rehearsal hall or perform at the main stage. There are innumerable memories of the audiences when they watch their first stage play, ballet and dance shows or orchestra concerts which have changed their lives that we want to protect and preserve.

Ballet Philippines (BP) was choreographed by Natl. Artist for Dance Alice Reyes. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
This is our national treasure. It is our legacy. Please join us and support us in our vision of a renewed Cultural Center of the Philippines. We thank BDO for being the first donor by underwriting the CCP’s 50th Anniversary Gala and please donate generously. Thank you good evening and enjoy the show.

standing from left: CCP 50th Scriptwriter Dennis Marasigan, Madz Et Al Conductor Mark Anthony Carpio, CCP VP & Artistic Dir Chris Millado, Lara Maigue, Poppert Bernadas, CCP Chairwoman Margie Moran Floirendo, CCP 50th Director Loy Arceñas, CCP Pres. Aresenio Lizaso, Nonie Buencamino, Shamaine Cenetenera Buencamino and Natl Artist for Dance Alice Reyes. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Lara Maigue; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (17)
List of Performers
Celeste Legaspi
Poppert Bernadas
Lara Maigue
Shamaine Centenera-Buencamino
Audie Gemora
Monique Wilson
Gian Magdangal

Nonie Buencamino; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
Nonie Buencamino
Stefanie Quintin
Ervin Lumauag
Rachelle Gerodias
Byeong In Park
Joanna Ampil
Dr. Raul Suñico
EA Torrado and Julienne Depatillo- Daloy Dance Co.
Candice Adea & Julio Blanes, West Australian Ballet

EA Torrado and Daloy Dance Company were accompanied by the UST Symphony Orchestra String Quartet. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (20)
Resident Companies
Ballet Philippines (BP)
Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company
National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA)
Philippine Madrigal Singers
Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO)
Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group
Tanghalang Pilipino (TP)
UST Symphony Orchestra (USTSO)

Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group performs Idem Dem Malida with music arranged by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, voices by Philippine Madrigal Singers and percussion by MusiKalinangan Philippine Gong and Bamboo Ensemble. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
MADZ ET AL CHOIRS
Madz Alumni
Musika Filipina
Male Ensemble Philippines
Pansol Choir
Lighter Side Movement
TIP Choral Society
UPLB Choral Ensemble
LPU Harmonic Chorale
National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima Grand Chorale
Song Weavers Philippines
Sing Philippines Youth Choir
Madz Schola Cantorum
Kilyawan Consortium of Voices

SPYC Sing Philippines Youth Choir were one of 13 groups that lent their voices in MADZ ET ALL CHOIRS. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
MusiKalinangan Philippine Gong and Bamboo Ensemble
Philippine Air Force Band

Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group performs Idem Dem Malida with music arranged by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, voices by Philippine Madrigal Singers and percussion by MusiKalinangan Philippine Gong and Bamboo Ensemble. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Blanquita Millado, Amb Edgardo Manuel, TP Company Mgr Carmela Millado-Manuel and Teresita Arcega. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (27)
WordPress:
http://judebsports.wordpress.com/ , http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ , http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ , /

Dr Raul Suñico performed a riveting piano solo: Liebestod by Wagner and Liszt followed by Hanggang Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan by George Canseco. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ballet Philippines (BP) was also choreographed by Ronelson Yadao. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (30)
tumblr:
http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

from left: Anna Ugarte, Natl Artist for Dance Alice Reyes, BP Assoc. Artistic Dir Adam Sage. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ballet Philippines (BP) was choreographed by Natl. Artist for Dance Alice Reyes. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (33)
flickr:

Ervin Lumauag sang an arrangement by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab with libretto by National Artist for Literature Bien Lumbera from Rizalia suite. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group performs Pansak from Basilan with Batang Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (36)
http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

Candice Adea and Julio Blanes courtesy of West Australian Ballet. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company Performs Las Mayas. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (39)
WordPress:
http://judebsports.wordpress.com/ , http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ , http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ , /

EA Torrado and Daloy Dance Company were accompanied by the UST Symphony Orchestra String Quartet. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
WordPress:
http://judebsports.wordpress.com/ , http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ , http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ , /

Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company Performs Pandanggo Sa Ilaw; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (42)
tumblr:
http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

Poppert Bernadas; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (44)
flickr:

Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group performs Pansak from Basilan with Batang Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Stefanie Quintin sang an arrangement by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab with libretto by National Artist for Literature Bien Lumbera from Rizalia suite. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (47)
http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

Julio Blanes courtesy of West Australian Ballet. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group performs Idem Dem Malida with music arranged by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, voices by Philippine Madrigal Singers and percussion by MusiKalinangan Philippine Gong and Bamboo Ensemble. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (50)
WordPress:
http://judebsports.wordpress.com/ , http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ , http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ , /

SPYC Sing Philippines Youth Choir were one of 13 groups that lent their voices in MADZ ET ALL CHOIRS. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Candice Adea courtesy of West Australian Ballet. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (52)
WordPress:
http://judebsports.wordpress.com/ , http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ , http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ , /

Joanna Ampil sang a stirring medley of West End hits. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company Performs Pandanggo Sa Ilaw; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

foreground: EA Torrado , background from left hosts Celeste Legaspi, Shamaine Centenera Buencamino, Nonie Buencamino – UST Symphony Orchestra String Quartet. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (55)
tumblr:
http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group performs Idem Dem Malida with music arranged by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, voices by Philippine Madrigal Singers and percussion by MusiKalinangan Philippine Gong and Bamboo Ensemble. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tanghalang Pilipino cast members; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (58)
flickr:

Byeong In Park (Baritone) and Rachelle Gerodias (Soprano); BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Jaime Laya, Julie Yap Daza and Danny Dolor. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (61)
http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

SPYC Sing Philippines Youth Choir were one of 13 groups that lent their voices in MADZ ET ALL CHOIRS. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ballet Philippines (BP) was also choreographed by Ronelson Yadao. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista (63)
WordPress:
http://judebsports.wordpress.com/ , http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ , http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ , /

Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company Performs Pandanggo Sa Ilaw; BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista

Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company Performs Las Mayas. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
WordPress:
http://judebsports.wordpress.com/ , http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ , http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ , /

Ballet Philippines (BP) was choreographed by Natl. Artist for Dance Alice Reyes. BULAWAN CCP 50th Anniversary Concert, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Main Theater, Sept. 20-21, 2019. Photo by Jude Bautista
WordPress:
http://judebsports.wordpress.com/ , http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ , http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ , /