June 20, 2025 | 7:00pm
Knox United Church Calgary, Alberta
AboutMEn
The Male Ensemble Philippines (MEn) is a distinguished vocal group composed of select artists from the country’s celebrated and awardwinning choral institutions United by a profound passion for ensemble singing, they are driven by a singular mission: to promote and elevate Philippine culture and the arts through the transformative power of music.
Emerging as a rising force in the global choral scene, MEn continued to gain international recognition through a series of successful concert tours across Asia and Europe in 2024. Their performances in key cultural and diplomatic venues in South Korea, China, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Macao were warmly received, further strengthening their role as advocates of Filipino artistry on the world stage The year 2023 marked significant milestones for MEn internationally. The group won 1st Prize in the Secular Category and 2nd Prize in the Sacred Category (Vocal Groups Division) at the prestigious 54th Tolosa International Choral Competition in Spain. Earlier that year, they were invited to perform at two of Russia’s most esteemed concert venues the Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory and the Ekaterininskoe Sobranie in St. Petersburg during the Universe of Sound International Music Festival Since their inception in 2018, the ensemble has graced stages across the Philippines and beyond, collaborating with esteemed musical institutions such as the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra and the Philippine Madrigal Singers. They have also worked alongside the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and various private and non-government organizations, leading workshops, outreach programs, and benefit concerts that bring music to communities nationwide.
With a repertoire that bridges tradition and innovation, MEn explores a diverse range of musical styles from classical masterpieces and jazz standards to contemporary Filipino compositions and traditional folk songs Their commitment to expanding their artistry through newly commissioned works reflects their dedication to creating music that not only resonates in the ear but profoundly moves the soul
MessagefromtheConsulGeneral
It is with great pleasure that I extend my warmest greetings to the Male Ensemble Philippines (MEn) on the occasion of their 2025 Canada Tour
We are proud to welcome such exceptional Filipino talent whose music celebrates the richness and depth of our musical heritage from sacred and classical choral traditions to vibrant folk and contemporary expressions that reflect the soul of the Filipino people
MEn’s one night concert in Calgary is especially meaningful as it takes place during Philippine Heritage Month in Alberta, a time when we honour the contributions of Filipinos to the cultural fabric of this province and of Canada What better way to celebrate this heritage than through music one of the most profound expressions of our identity as a people.
This evening’s concert supports the University of the Philippines Alumni Association in Alberta (UPAAA) Scholarship Program Through your presence and generosity, you are helping open doors for deserving young Filipinos investing in their education, their future, and the transformative power of opportunity
On behalf of the Philippine Consulate General in Calgary, I thank the UPAAA for its steadfast commitment to community and nation-building, and for bringing us together through the unifying power of music and shared purpose
EMMA R. SARNE
Consul General
Philippine Consulate General in Calgary
MessagefromtheUPAAAPresident
Dear Friends,
Welcome, and thank you for joining us for this special evening of music as we celebrate Philippine Heritage Month in Alberta
Your presence means the world to us, and it is your support that gives meaning to our mission: scholarships for underprivileged students in the Philippines and bursaries for Calgary post-secondary students.
Music has a unique power to bring people together, to inspire, to heal, and to uplift Tonight, we hope to share with you not only our passion and hard work but also the joy and connection that music creates among us all.
Whether you are a first-time or long-time supporter of UPAAA, we are honored to have you with us May this concert bring you moments of reflection, inspiration, connection, and delight.
With heartfelt thanks,
Shirley Chavez President of UPAAA
Repertoire
PartI
OmnesdeSabaVennient- Jacob Handl
HelisebVäljadel- Urmas Sisask
GarrotadeIpanema- Tom Jobim, arr. Ily Matthew Maniano
Khorumi- Mamia Katlishvili
SaPunongSaging- Traditional Filipino, arr Ruben Federizon
SaUgoyngDuyan- Lucio San Pedro, arr Ily Matthew Maniano
DaCoconutNut- Ryan Cayabyab
INTERMISSION
PartII
WhenYouWishUponAStar- Leigh Harline, Ned Washington, arr Ily Matthew Maniano
Leaves - Ben & Ben, arr. Tomas Umberto Virtucio, Jr.
Buwan - JK Labajo, arr. Robert Delgado
JukeboxMedley - Arr. Male Ensemble Philippines
Paraiso - Ryan Cayayab
ThankYou.Merci.Salamat.
This evening’s concert would not have been possible without the dedication, support, and generosity of many individuals and organizations
We extend our heartfelt thanks to:
OurPerformers,theMaleEnsemblePhilippines
For sharing your incredible talent and passion with us tonight.
OurVolunteers
Your energy and time bring everything together seamlessly.
OurSponsorsandDonors
Your generosity ensures the music continues
OurAudience
Thank you for coming to this fundraising event of the UPAAA Proceeds of ticket sales will support scholarships for underprivileged students in the Philippines and bursaries for post-secondary students in Calgary
SpecialThanksTo:
– The Philippine Consulate General office and staff
– Knox United Church
– Doc Lou Celis
– Dash the Driver
Together, we have created something unforgettable.
Thank you to our Sponsors and Donors
Chef driven plant-based menu with full flavours, full bowls and a whole lot of passion cooked into every meal specially made for everyone. Ramen, pho, handhelds, and Pan-Asian inspired dishes to tantalize every tastebud. We meet your vegan, vegetarian and “Meatless Monday” needs. Visit us todayororderonlinetofeedyourhungrycrowd. www.nansnoodlehouse.com
Mabuhay!
ShirleyChavez
Mabuhay! Mabuhay!
University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Alberta
TheJourney
WhatbeganastheUniversityofthePhilippinesAlumniAssociationofCalgary(UPAAC) inthe1980shasflourishedintotoday’sdynamicUniversityofthePhilippinesAlumni AssociationofAlberta(UPAAA)Theoriginalassociationbecamedormantforoverfive years,buttheUPspiritwasreignitedinlate2011Acoregroupofalumnirekindledthe associationbyhostingaheartwarmingChristmasreuniononDecember2,2011, attractingalumnifromacrossCalgaryandsurroundingtownsanddrawinginspiration torebuildwhatwasoncedormant.In2012,UPAAAwasformallyincorporatedand receivedrecognitionfromthenUPPresidentAlfredoPascualandtheAlberta Governmentasaregisterednon-profitorganization
Thepurpose,aspirations,andprinciplesthatdefineUPAAAareembeddedinits Mission,Vision,andCoreValues.
Mission:ToengageUPalumniacrossAlberta,fosteringcamaraderie,professional support,andcommunitybuilding
Vision:Caring,Connected,Empowered,Visible
CoreValues:
Unity–helpingalumnistayfosteredinavibrant,inclusivecommunity Professionalism–deliveringethical,reliable,andtransparentinitiatives
Accountability–owningbothdecisionsandimpacts Adaptability–respondingflexiblytomemberandcommunityneeds Ardour–ignitingapassionatedrivetomakeameaningfuldifference
KeyInitiatives&CommunityImpact
UPAAAbuildsitslegacythroughprogramsthatembodyitsvalues,suchasScholarship GrantsandBursaryAwards,UPatKaibiganGolfTournament,CommunityEngagement, andAlumniNetworkingandEvents
WhyWeMatter
UPAAAunitesalumniunderashareddedicationtohonor,excellence,andservice, capturingtheessenceoftheUPspiritabroad.Theirjourneyembodiesresilience,unity, andvisionThroughscholarship,service,andcelebration,UPalumniweavealegacyof leadershipandcompassioninAlbertaandbeyond
Padayon!
