Celebrating music and memories

MANILA, Philippines - A concert of classical Filipino music from a more refined era and a Filipiniana fashion show come together on Sunday, Dec. 16 at the Rizal Ballroom of Makati Shangri-La. The event will raise funds for the restoration and redevelopment of the historic Patio of the Cathedral of St. Paul the First Hermit, a UNESCO listed site in San Pablo City, Laguna.

“Recuerdos de Ayer, Our Music, Our Memories,” is organized by the Samahan ng Mahal na Pasion in coordination with the Cathedral’s finance committee. Ado Escudero, Samahan chairman, is spearheading this effort for a structure that was originally built by the Augustinian friars more than four centuries ago.

The concert will feature Dean Raul Sunico, Rachel Gerodias, Dulce, The Five Tenors, George Yang, Armida Siguion-Reyna, Cris and Opap Villonco. Patis Tesoro follows with a two-part show, showcasing her beautiful traditional and avant garde designs of Filipiniana ternos, all to be worn by 65 prominent ladies.

It will be an enjoyable afternoon with the audience, listening to the classical music compositions of yesteryears by great Filipino artists, seeing the intricacies of Philippine design and rekindling the traditional family focused Filipino culture of gentler times.

As Escudero says, “Rather than making it a commercialized show, why not make it about family with which guests can identify? This is not a professional fashion show; it’s for people who want to help our cause. These women will share a part of their precious time to raise money for this great cause.”

Enthusiastically supporting the event, Rustan Commercial Corporation president Zenaida Tantoco adds, “Patis Tesoro’s creations personify a perfect embodiment of Filipino elegance that exquisitely blends a touch of antiquity with contemporary design and execution. Her penchant for the use of indigenous materials, particularly of the piña fabric, revives a sense of pride in being Filipino, something that mirrors Rustan’s very own tradition of showcasing only the best that the Philippines has to offer. Patis Tesoro’s entry into Rustan’s Ladies RTW and Accessories defines a touch of class and classic elegance that is distinctly Filipino.” Rustan’s who will soon carry the collection of Patis Tesoro in its Our Very Own section.

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Tickets will be available at 1059 Estrada corner Bautista St., Malate (521-0830 or 523-2944); Rustan’s Makati Concierge (867-2307 / 813-3739 loc 280); and on the day itself, at the Rizal Ballroom, Makati Shangri-La.