It is difficult to believe that the grand dame of Philippine orchestras has recently turned 50 years old! And what better way to celebrate this admirable milestone than with their very own 50th anniversary gala concert, which was held on 12 May at the meticulously refurbished and renovated Manila Metropolitan Theater, the venue of choice of esteemed artists and performers since 1931.

From their very first concert in 1973, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra grew steadily in size, adopting more talents and expanding their repertoire and reach. It has skyrocketed to become the country's premier orchestra, on par with the world's best.

"Thirty-eight concert seasons, hundreds of guest artists and conductors, thousands of performances, a million hearts touched… the PPO has gracefully reached its golden jubilee," reminisced Cultural Center of the Philippines President Margie Moran-Floirendo.

"Tonight's concert is not just a celebration for the CCP, but a milestone for the country. It is a testament to the enduring and lasting Filipino artistry and creativity," she continued.

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For the singular evening, the resident orchestra of CCP recreated part of its debut concert five decades ago.