Treasure Chest of Symphony

On October 22, 2024, a gilded afternoon cast a radiant glow over Malacañang’s Goldenberg Pavilion—one that was polished, bright, and alive with sound. Like sunlight glinting off burnished gold, musicians from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) brought the brilliance of Filipino artistry to life, with each note — a glimmer of the dedication that they have poured into their craft.

Golden Mentor

Prof. Maribel Miguel-Ararao graced the recital not only as a performer but as an esteemed mentor. Embodying the strength and luster of gold in her voice with "Ay, ay, ay o pag-ibig." Her students, fellow soprano Julianne Indanan Alvaran and baritone Jose James Dean joined the stage with her. Miguel-Ararao’s career, much like gold itself, has only grown in value over time. She is a full-time professor at PLM and has performed on international stages and taught generations of students.

Golden Star

Julianne Indanan Alvaran stood beside her mentor with a voice as radiant as a newly minted coin. The young soprano, who was one of the pioneering students of PLM’s Bachelor of Music program, took the stage with grace. Alvaran has also performed in numerous prestigious events, including tributes to National Artists at the Metropolitan Theater. Her performance at Malacañang marked a full-circle moment in her journey.

Golden Voice

Amid the ensemble, baritone Jose James Dean’s voice added depth like the weight of gold itself, grounding "Ay, ay, ay o pag-ibig” with a warmth that resonated across the room. With over a decade of vocal training, including chorale workshops and mentorship, Dean is currently an active member of the PLM Chorale and under tutelage of Miguel-Ararao.

Golden Keys

His accompaniment to "Ay, ay, ay o pag-ibig" and “Lagi Kitang Naalala” was a reminder that gold, while striking on its own, shines even brighter when paired with the right alloy. His repertoire extended to a medley of pop songs for “one piano, four hand” with fellow pianist Prof. Harold Perfecto R. Galang. As their hands danced across the keys in perfect synchrony.

Golden String

Violinist Benjamin Jose Caaway’s performance of "Lagi Kitang Naaalala" was like a thread of gold that shimmered with sentiment and nostalgia. Starting his violin training at a young age, Caaway’s journey has been one of careful refinement. His talent has been meticulously honed through years of orchestral experience and guidance from mentors worldwide. 

Golden Duo

Guitarists Normando Villas Jr. and Rafael Ronquillo performed "Pandangguhan." Each strum resonated in the Pavilion. Both have represented the Philippines at international festivals, their dedication to their instrument adding another dimension to the gold standard of PLM’s music department.

Golden Touch

Prof. Harold Perfecto R. Galang’s role as a leader in PLM’s music department was evident not only in his performance but in the polished excellence each performer displayed. His piano duet with Balsamo, featuring “Mayon de Concierto” and a lively pop medley “one piano, four hands,” showcased his versatility and artistic vision. Galang’s international training and national accolades have made him a cornerstone of PLM’s music program.

 Golden Note

Tenor Immanuel Floyd Lim added a fresh gleam to the rendition of "Ay, ay, ay o pag-ibig," joining Miguel-Ararao, Alvaran, and Dean. Lim has gained recognition for his performances in Metro Manila and on social media, where he shares his journey with a growing audience. He pursues his master’s degree under Professor Raymond Leslie Diaz. A reminder of gold in its raw form — beautiful, promising, and full of potential.

As the recital came to a close with “Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal?,” the entire cast left behind more than applause and admiration. They left the glow of a shared journey, each note shimmering like flecks of gold in the air. Together, these musicians represented PLM’s golden legacy — a trove of brilliance unearthed like a newly discovered treasure chest.