PEOPLE gathered to watch a world-class performance of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) that ushered the start of a 40-day Yuletide celebration.
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong thanked the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) for gracing the weekend twin billing by the PPO and the Bayanihan dancers in public performances drawing crowds of thousands.
Magalong presented CCP president Nick Lizaso with the key to the city, signaling a partnership highlighted with more performances to come.
The launch of the An Enchanting Baguio Christmas is led by the Baguio Tourism Council chaired by Gladys Vergara, in cooperation with the City Tourism Office, allowing 23 “chalets” to set up at the Rose Garden of Burnham Park until January.
The European inspired chalets aim to offer the best of Christmas finds, flavors and finery with activities for children and families scheduled with performances, shows, games and entertainment for the entire duration.
The PPO performance started with the William Tell Overture by Gioachino Rossini, followed by the Nutcracker Suite by Peter Ilich Tschiakovsky then the Nicanor Abelardo, Angel Pena arranged “Mutya ng Pasig”.
The PPO then launched into the Ryan Cayabyab’s “Kumukutikutitap”, The “Way We Were” that was arranged by Orlando dela Cruz and “Ilocandia again” by national artist for music Cayabyab, followed by Broadway “Tonight” by Bruce Chase, Cayabyab’s version of Iloco classic “Ti Ayat ti Maysa nga Ubing” and Jose Estrella’s “Ang Maya,” closing with a Beatle’s Christmas “Tune Medley” which brought the crowd to their feet.
Sopranos Nerissa de Juan and Bernadette Mamauag with the Nightingales performed in between sets of the PPO.
Lizaso has agreed for the PPO to perform to open Christmas celebrations in the city adding it is the first time of the PPO will grace the city’s most popular park.
The PPO is the flagship orchestra of the country and is renowned for its talent worldwide acclaim.
“I would like citizens from all walks of life to be able to enjoy the PPO and I want to share it to the people of Baguio,” Lizaso said.