SM City SJDM, Bamboo Band Pays Tribute to Philippine Independence Day

IN PHOTO: Members of Banda Kawayan Pilipinas who performed during the celebration of 121^st Philippine Independence Day at SM City San Jose del Monte. Photo credit to Banda Kawayan Pilipinas Official Facebook Page.

As a celebration of the 121^st Philippine Independence Day, SM City San Jose del Monte presented the Banda Kawayan Pilipines in a free one-hour performance at the mall atrium, June 12.

Shoppers and mall goers witnessed the world class performances of Banda Kawayan Pilipinas who performed different traditional music, Filipino folk songs like Bahay Kubo, as well as Original Filipino Music (OPM) such as Estudyante Blues, Manila, and Hahabol-habol utilized on different bamboo instruments.

M City San Jose del Monte Security Forces salute to the Philippine Flag in the entrance of colors during the observance of the 121^st Philippine Independence Day

Banda Kawayan Pilipinas is a unique ensemble of young, talented performers utilizing musical instruments fashioned out of bamboo and indigenous materials, envisions themselves as a world-class performing arts that bridges cultures, celebrates Filipino artistry and grooms young talents through music. Banda Kawayan’s unique musical style has taken them to international shows, music festivals, concert and tours inside and outside the Philippines.

The students of Paradise Farms National High School performs their unique interpretation of Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas with the touch of sounds coming from the bamboo instrument called Angklung, as a reminder of the many reasons to be proud of the Philippines and as a Filipino.

Early in the morning, SM also put into spotlight its homegrown talents from the City of San Jose del Monte. Students from Paradise Farms National High School performs the invocation and completed the program with a festive, patriotic and different interpretation of the song Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas using Angklung, a musical instrument also made of bamboo tubes attached to bamboo frames. The Lupang Hinirang was led by Bulacan X Factor 2017 Champion, Famela Ann Aglabtin, who also showcased her vocal prowess with the song Isang Lahi. The celebration was also graced by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines Tungkong Mangga Chapter.

The Boy Scouts of the Philippines Tungkong Mangga chapter salutes to the Philippine flag while singing the National Anthem during the celebration of 121^st Philippine Independence Day at SM City San Jose del Monte

SM City San Jose del Monte Assistant Mall Manager Arch. Nelson R. Lopez expressed his gratitude for all the employees, agency personnel, affiliates, tenants, and guests who supported the event. “Our art and culture played an important role in our freedom because it defines our identity as Filipino”, he shares.

SM City San Jose Del Monte’s centerpiece signifies the Philippine Flag as it is covered in shining color of red, blue, and yellow sequins. It also symbolizes the shining talent of San Joseños and the rising city of Bulacan.

The Philippine Independence Day is celebrated simultaneously in all SM Supermalls.