Sunday, October 20, 2024
DepEd and Chalkboard Launch the ARAL Program: A New Initiative to Boost Literacy and Numeracy in Public Schools
Thursday, October 17, 2024
CHERUBIC VOICES FROM BOHOL RECEIVE CCP’S HIGHEST ARTISTIC HONOR
ANTICIPATION filled the air as the Loboc Children’s Choir, represented by LCC musical director and conductor Alma Fernando-Taldo or Ma’am Alma, was called on stage to receive the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining award.
Part of the center's 55th anniversary, the Gawad CCP Para Sa Sining is the highest award given by CCP to artists or groups of artists in dance, music, theater, film and broadcast arts, literature, visual arts, architecture, and allied arts and design who have/had consistently produced outstanding works in their art form or have/had evolved a distinct style or technique that enriches the development of their particular art form.
Gawad-CCP-Para-sa-Sining-20Sept2024-KikoCabuena1 (790)
“Ang aking puso ay puno ng pasasalamat, galak, at pagmamahal (My heart is full of gratitude, joy, and love),” Taldo gushed. “Hindi sumagi sa aming isipan na ang ginagawa ng choir ay makakatawag ng pansin sa mga eksperto sa kultura at sining.” (It never occurred to us that what the choir is doing will attract the attention of culture and art experts.)
She told the audience that the LCC started as a simple choir of children and for children in a small and remote town of Loboc in the province of Bohol. “Ang tanging pangarap namin noon ay umawit nang buong husay para sa mga lokal na tagapakinig at komunidad (Our only dream then was to sing with our best for the local audiences and communities),” she continued.
Looking back, Taldo also confided that God had other plans for the group. “Dumating ang NAMCYA at nagbukas ng daan para maipakita ng choir ang kanilang husay sa rehiyonal at pambansang antas (NAMCYA came and opened the way for the choir to showcase their skills at the regional and national levels).” She likewise expressed her gratitude to NAMCYA for giving LCC the opportunity to practice more and get better and have enough courage to perform on the world stage.
LCC musical director and conductor Alma Taldo delivers her acceptance speech on stage. (Photo by Kiko Cabuena CCP) |
She further explained to the audience that the Loboc children come from simple families in their community, adding that no one had thought that one day they would be traveling across the country and the world to sing to people of different races and backgrounds.
Founded in 1980, the LCC began as a modest school choir composed of children aged 9 to 13 from Loboc Central Elementary School. Over the decades, it has blossomed into one of the Philippines’ most celebrated young choral ensembles.
Armed with their exceptional talents and dedication, the choir has received various accolades and achievements, including grand prizes at the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 1993, 1995, and 2001. Their exceptional performances, rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Bohol, have graced both national and international stages.
In 1996, the LCC embarked on a significant U.S. tour, dubbed “On Angels’ Wings: From Bohol to the World,” bringing their celestial harmonies to major cities across America. They have collaborated with distinguished musical groups, including the World Youth Orchestra and the UST Symphony Orchestra.
Their international acclaim was further highlighted when they represented the Philippines at the International Children's Culture and Arts Festival in Tianjin, China, performing in Beijing and Hong Kong. Their contributions extend locally as well, with performances for dignitaries, and tourists, and participation in community activities.
A particularly memorable milestone was their acclaimed back-to-back concert with the University of the Philippines Singing Ambassadors, who won the Gran Premio Citta di Arezzo at the 49th Concorso Polifonico Internazionale Guido d'Arezzo in Arezzo, Italy, in 2001.
The LCC's outreach extends beyond traditional venues. They perform in prisons, hospitals, orphanages, and homes for the aged, spreading messages of hope and joy through their music. Their involvement in school, town, and provincial events underscores their commitment to cultural enrichment.
The choir’s success is deeply attributed to Ma’am Alma, whose vision and dedication have been instrumental in their achievements.
Taldo reflects on the choir’s journey: “When we received the communication from CCP informing us about the award, we were very surprised and a little bit shocked. It was a pleasant surprise for all of us. We never expected it to happen to us, to be given this very prestigious award.”
Taldo recalls their triumphs, including their 2003 performance at the Europe and Its Songs Folksong Choir Festival in Barcelona, Spain, where they won a gold medal and the grand prize. “It was our first time in an international competition, so we were so happy to get these awards. We had the opportunity to sing before Pope John Paul II, who is now a saint,” said Ma’am Alma.
Watching her students grow and become well-rounded performers has been the highlight of her time with the children’s choir. She has seen former LCC members who have pursued successful musical careers and made their marks.
“We inspire each other,” she affirmed, emphasizing the mutual encouragement within the group.
Damaris Taldo is now a choir director in Italy, while Samuel Varquez has become a lead guitarist. Liz Cal shares Taldo’s passion for teaching and vocal coaching.
These former members and others underscore the impact of the Loboc Children’s Choir on young children dreaming of a better world, on the audience whose hearts they have touched, and on the communities that embrace them.
For Taldo, as long as there are young voices eager to sing, the Loboc Children’s Choir will continue its musical journey.
She identifies promising talents who could contribute to the choir’s future success, including Lea Claudia Cal from the Asian Institute for Liturgy and Music, Noel Kerr Caneda from the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music, George Warloo Calipusan from St. Scholastica, and Filianne Villaflor, a member of the Philippine Madrigal Singers.
The Loboc Children's Choir was one of the recipients of the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining, the highest award given to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to Philippine arts and culture. This recognition is a testament to the LCC’s remarkable achievements and its vital role in preserving and promoting Philippine culture.
Big Bad Wolf Books’ Guide to Finding the Perfect Gift
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill |
As the holiday season approaches and the joy of giving fills the air, it's time to think about gifts that are meaningful, thoughtful, and long-lasting. Big Bad Wolf Books believes that books are the ultimate timeless gift, one that holds infinite value for both the giver and the recipient.
Meaningful and Thoughtful
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The Wish by Nicholas Sparks |
Furthermore, when you give someone a book, you’re not just giving them an object—you’re offering them an experience, a journey, and a chance to connect with the stories and lessons inside. Books allow you to share something meaningful, whether it’s a childhood favorite that shaped who you are or a powerful story that touched your heart. The joy of giving a book comes from knowing that you're giving more than a present—you’re giving the gift of imagination, knowledge, and adventure.
Badass Habits by Jen Sincero |
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The goal is to promote literacy and foster a love of reading in communities around the world. Big Bad Wolf Books seeks to create a world where books open doors to new opportunities, learning, and growth for all. By partnering with various organizations, Big Bad Wolf Books supports educational programs, donates books to schools and libraries, and empowers readers of all ages.
The Nutcracker Illustrated by Margarida Esteves |
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Disney Storybook Collection Advent Calendar |
6. Celebrate the Season of Giving with Big Bad Wolf Books
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This Christmas, don’t hesitate! Fill your totes with books that will bring joy, wonder, and lasting memories to everyone on your nice list.
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
CCP KABATAANG GITARISTA IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR BATCH 12
Monday, October 14, 2024
MakatiMed shares finding the perfect shoe fit helps prevent bunions and backache, too
When left neglected, your foot problems can eventually have a long-term impact on the knee, hip, and lower back. “By wearing improper shoes for your actual size, you’re adding strain to these parts and their muscles, ligaments, and joints. They can end up all misaligned, altering your gait, throwing off your body’s overall balance, and even giving you back pain,” says Dr. Arandia.
MakatiMed underlines that the best first step to better foot health is getting the right fit since a lot of people tend to stick to their shoe size for years.
“If you’re buying a new pair, measure your foot length from the tip of the big toe to the outer part of the heel at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest and leave about a finger’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe,” suggests Dr. Arandia. “Also check the width of your foot as the shoes should comfortably fit the ball of the foot and allow the toes to spread out naturally to improve stability.”
Consider your foot’s arches, too. “Many shoe brands today offer specific designs that’ll cater to your foot’s anatomy. Those with high arches should look at shoes with cushioned midsole to help absorb shock, whereas those with flat feet must find pairs that offer rigid or stable midsole for more support,” reminds Dr. Arandia. “The most important thing to consider is comfort, so when buying shoes, try them on while standing and walking around to ensure they fit well and don't cause any chafing or slipping.”
It’s also essential to factor in your activities when choosing new footwear. For instance, if you anticipate walking a lot during your daily commute, make sure to select shoes that can provide adequate support and protect your feet at the same time, Dr. Arandia notes.
Whether you’re counting daily steps, standing for long hours at work, or enjoying leisurely jogs with friends, investing in properly fitted shoes is a small yet impactful healthy step towards achieving “happy feet” and easing back pain, too.
For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.