UP’s Tanghal Tertulia returns: Star-studded cultural homecoming

The stage is set for an unforgettable night of music, dance and heritage as the University of the Philippines brings back its celebrated cultural showcase, Tanghal Tertulia, for its third and most vibrant installment yet.

On 21 February, the Executive House Amphitheater at UP Diliman will transform into a living canvas of Filipino artistry, honoring three of the country’s most revered National Artists: Benedicto Cabrera, Resil Mojares, and Agnes Locsin.

Grand celebration of UP’s finest

Homegrown performers will take center stage in a powerful tribute that blends tradition with innovation. The UP Dance Company, UP Rondalla, and the UP Filipiniana Dance Group will unite for a sweeping performance that journeys through the cultural rhythms of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao — promising audiences a rich tapestry of Philippine dance and sound.

The evening will spotlight emerging and established artists alike, reaffirming UP’s reputation as a cradle of world-class talent.

A stirring fusion of the beloved folk song “Salidummay” will be performed by UP Tugtugang Musika Asyatika (UP TUGMA) and PAGTA-UPD, featuring soprano Althea Linelle Domngal, a proud Baguio native. The number pays homage to Cabrera’s deep Cordilleran roots, weaving indigenous sounds with contemporary flair.

Meanwhile, soprano Pauline Therese Arejola will enchant the audience with a heartfelt medley of Visayan classics — “Ay, Kalisud,” “Matud Nila,” “Pobreng Alindahaw,” and “Rosas Pandan” — in tribute to Mojares’ enduring influence on Filipino scholarship and culture.

World music performer and indigenous people’s rights advocate Bayang Barrios joins forces with the KUL-Kulintangan ensemble to deliver the hypnotic sounds of Maguindanawon music. Their performance will intertwine seamlessly with choreography inspired by Locsin’s signature neo-ethnic Filipino dance style — a fitting salute to her groundbreaking contributions to contemporary Philippine dance.

Award-winning cultural tradition

Tanghal Tertulia stands as UP’s flagship cultural initiative honoring its homegrown National Artists. Led by the UP Office of the President in partnership with the UP Diliman College of Music and several cultural organizations, the program recently earned the Best Special Events Production Award at the 38th Aliw Awards — the only higher education institution recognized in the category.

With its growing prestige, the event has become more than a tribute — it is a testament to UP’s enduring commitment to the arts.

The celebration is free and open to the public, though seats are limited. Guests are encouraged to RSVP in advance to secure their spot at what promises to be a night of cultural pride, artistic excellence, and heartfelt homage.