The enduring friendship between Taiwan and the Philippines took center stage on October 10 at the University of the Philippines Diliman Music Hall, where the LongTan Philharmonic Orchestra (LTPO) from Taoyuan, Taiwan, and the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus (UPCC) joined forces for the concert “Taiwanihan: An Encore.”
The event, held in celebration of R.O.C. (Taiwan)’s National Day, was more than a musical performance—it was a heartfelt tribute to the shared values, cultural connection, and people-to-people ties between the two nations. Supported by the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) of Taiwan and its honorary representatives in the Philippines, the concert highlighted how cultural collaboration can bridge communities and strengthen diplomatic goodwill.
The evening’s repertoire featured an inspiring blend of Taiwanese and Filipino masterpieces, from the beloved Filipino classic Anak to Teresa Teng’s timeless hits and Hakka Variations. The UP Concert Chorus enriched the program with soulful renditions of Filipino folk medleys, symbolizing the spirit of unity that defines “Taiwanihan.” The concert reached an emotional peak when both groups—and the 250-member audience—joined in a moving performance of The Moon Represents My Heart, a moment that beautifully captured the harmony between the two cultures.
In his message, Ambassador Wallace M. G. Chow, Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines, praised the collaboration as “a meaningful expression of harmony, friendship, and shared aspirations between Taiwan and the Philippines.” He emphasized that the event reflects the vibrant cultural exchanges that continue to strengthen bilateral ties beyond trade and politics.
The LTPO, under the leadership of Ambassador Vanessa Yea-Ping Shih as Advisor and Conductor Hung-Yu Chang, performed alongside the UPCC directed by Professor Janet Sabas-Aracama and Dean Ma. Patricia Brillantes-Silvestre. The concert also received strong support from Visiting Professor Eing Ming Wu and the local Taiwanese community in the Philippines.
The night concluded with an exchange of tokens of appreciation between UP and the organizers, symbolizing the continued commitment of both sides to deepen cultural and educational partnerships. “Taiwanihan: An Encore” stood as a resonant reminder that through music and cultural understanding, the friendship between Taiwan and the Philippines continues to thrive and inspire.