Opinions
MUSIKALAYAAN celebrates Filipino heritage and spirit
by Ernesto Nicolas Ofiaza Jr.
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Ember Sky
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The Filipino Music and Arts Association of Canada Inc. (FMAACI) presented MUSIKALAYAAN 2026 on June 6 at the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg (FSGW) Event Hall, bringing together performers, community members, sponsors, and guests for an evening celebrating Filipino music and culture.
Held at the FSGW hall on Euclid Avenue, the program began at 6 p.m. with the singing of the Philippine and Canadian national anthems, followed by a land acknowledgment. FMAACI President Ernesto Ofiaza Jr. welcomed attendees before a group photo was taken with FMAACI officers, performers, sponsors, and guests. Alden Novallasca served as master of ceremonies.
The concert featured a lineup of local performers presenting a mix of Filipino classics and contemporary international songs. Joemax Kiamcoopened the program with Pag-ibig sa Tinubuang Lupa followed by a rendition of Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls.
Other performers included Jerlyn Maranan, RJ Arellano, Manny Concepcion, Melodee, Kassey, the Winnipeg Wildflowers, Jun Llanos, and Ember Sky. The program included a brief intermission before continuing with the second half of the concert, concluding at 8:55 p.m.
MUSIKALAYAAN 2026 was organized by FMAACI in partnership with the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba and the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg. The event was supported by Maples Insurance and Drumhead Entertainment Audio Visual Services, with media partners Pilipino Express and CKJS. Volunteers also assisted in organizing and presenting the program.
The annual event continues FMAACI’s efforts to promote Filipino music, showcase local talent, and celebrate Filipino heritage within Winnipeg’s multicultural community.