The Philippines marked its National Day at Expo 2025 Osaka with “Hinabing Hiraya” (Woven Imagination), a three-part cultural showcase at the Ray Garden. Curated by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in collaboration with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the event celebrated Filipino heritage, resilience, and creativity.
TPB Philippines COO Marga Norgrales emphasized the significance of weaving (“paghahabi”) as a central theme, stating, “Each thread tells a story of ancestry, identity, and our shared hopes. Our Philippine National Day performance celebrates the Filipino dream, made visible.”
The showcase unfolded in three dynamic suites:
Hinabing Gunita (Remembrances): This segment evoked ancestral memory with National Living Treasure Rosie Godwino Sula, a Tboli epic chanter, and the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, who presented dances, music, and rituals honoring diverse ethnolinguistic communities and weaving traditions.
Matatag na Kasalukuyan (Resilient Present): This part paid tribute to National Artists Ryan Cayabyab, Alice Reyes, and Larry Alcala. A cappella groups Acapellago, Baihana, and Pinopela performed new interpretations of Cayabyab’s music, while Alice Reyes Dance Philippines premiered a dance suite inspired by Alcala’s “Slice of Life” illustrations. The Voice winner Sofronio Vasquez delivered a solo tribute to the resilience of everyday Filipinos.
Hiraya ng Kinabukasan (Imagined Future): This segment envisioned a bold and inclusive future through contemporary performance. Lumad Basakanon from Cebu presented their spirited Sinulog, Lapu-Lapu Arnis de Abanico showcased the artistry of Arnis, and world-renowned dance crew UPeepz performed high-impact street choreography. Rising pop star Zephanie and the Loboc Children’s Choir capped off the segment.
The grand finale saw all performers unite for “Pilipinas Kong Mahal,” a powerful vow to honor the past, celebrate the present, and uplift the Philippines on the global stage.
