The bustling Taipei 101 Water Dance Plaza came alive with music, movement, and meaning last week (July 13) as the Asia Carnival—Beyond Borders, Asia United lit up the city with a vibrant showcase of cultural pride and unity.
The day-long celebration brought together communities from across Asia, but it was the heartfelt contributions from the Filipino delegation that left a lasting impression.
The event, organized by the Asia Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce (ASTCC) with the Taipei City Government and Taipei 101, aimed to promote regional harmony and cultural appreciation, according to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), which is the de facto embassy of Taiwan in the Philippines.
One standout participant was the Taiwan Association Inc. Philippines (TAP)—the official body of the Taiwanese business community in the Philippines—which championed Filipino artistry and migrant empowerment.
Sand, spirit, and stories of home
At the heart of the Filipino presence was Mario Subeldia, a Taiwan-based Filipino migrant worker whose live sand art performance mesmerized onlookers. Using grains of sand, he painted stories of migration, hope, and resilience—turning his booth into a space of quiet reflection and emotional connection.
TAP President Mr. Tom Lin emphasized that supporting Mario wasn’t just about showcasing talent, but “allowing art to speak where words often fall short”—giving voice to the thousands of overseas Filipinos working hard far from home.
Also capturing the spotlight was Hugyaw Mananayaw, a spirited dance troupe composed of Filipino students in Taiwan. Their electrifying performance blended traditional folk dances with contemporary flair, highlighting the dynamic nature of Filipino culture and the power of youth to carry it forward.
Backstage, students shared how performing on an international stage allowed them to “celebrate our identity” and “bring a piece of the Philippines to Taiwan.”
A touch of home for migrants in need
TAP’s participation in the carnival wasn’t all art and applause—it was also a gesture of compassion. The association donated NT$150,000 (around ₱285,000) to three Filipino-focused organizations in Taiwan, with NT$50,000 each going to:
- Hugyaw Mananayaw, to sustain their arts programs
- Ugnayan Migrant and Immigrant Mission Center, which offers shelter, legal support, and training
- Stella Maris Seafarers and Migrant Workers Center, providing emergency aid and pastoral care
The donations were personally handed over during a ceremony witnessed by MECO Chairperson Atty. Cheloy E. Velicaria-Garafil, Minister of Labor Hung, Sun-Han, and Legislator Lin, Chuyin—a moment that underscored the shared commitment of Taiwan and the Philippines to care for migrant communities.
In many ways, the Asia Carnival became a bridge—not just of nations, but of empathy, artistry, and bayanihan. Through their sponsorship and support, TAP didn’t just represent Taiwan-based businesses. They stood as cultural ambassadors, proving that celebrating diversity and caring for one another are essential to any strong community.
As the lights dimmed and the final performances wrapped, one truth remained: when cultures connect through art and compassion, borders truly begin to fade.
