By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda honored the renowned Filipina pianist Cecile Licad during an evening of classical music at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila, celebrating National Women’s Month.

“This is truly a triumphant night to once again showcase the artistry of Filipinos in the music industry,” Legarda remarked.

“Cecile Licad is an enduring testament to the Philippines’ contribution to the world of classical music, inspiring generations of Filipino musical talents who continue to shape and elevate the country’s vibrant arts and culture scene,” she added.

The concert, supported by the Office of Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Society, Inc. (PPOSI), aimed to support and inspire the next generation of Filipino artists to pursue their passion and refine their musical abilities. Music students from public and private schools and universities were invited to attend the concert for free.

“Our commitment to showcasing the unparalleled talent of Filipino artists reflects our enduring legacy. This event underscores the essence of Filipino creativity and highlights our steadfast dedication to nurturing world-class talent,” Legarda emphasized.

(el Amigo/MNM)

MANILA –In a tumultuous turn of events on Wednesday (13 Dec 2023), the tranquility of Legarda Street in Manila was shattered as a major pipe rupture left approximately 6,400 Maynilad service connections in disarray. The incident submerged the entire area knee-deep in water, triggering a cascade of challenges for affected residents.

As emergency repair operations unfolded, the arterial roads experienced severe congestion, prompting closures to facilitate swift maintenance efforts. The resultant heavy traffic further compounded the woes of the community.

Responding promptly to the crisis, Maynilad dispatched water tankers to provide relief to the impacted residents, underscoring their commitment to mitigating the situation.

(Benjamin Cuaresma/AI/MNM)

By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Senator Loren Legarda expressed her strong appreciation for Japan’s commitment to safeguarding the territorial integrity of the Philippines through collaboration and partnership.

“We aim to enhance the training and upskilling of our armed forces by building a closer partnership with the Japanese Self-Defense Forces,” the senator stated, echoing the sentiments of Japan’s Prime Minister, Kishida Fumio.

Legarda also expressed confidence in the deepening cooperation between the Philippines and Japan.

“Today, I am honored to join my colleagues in the Philippine Congress in extending a warm welcome to His Excellency Kishida Fumio, the Prime Minister of Japan, as he graced us with his presence in the Joint Session,” Legarda said.

“Our people-to-people connections and cultural exchanges have laid the foundation for a strong bond between our nations, fostering mutual respect and understanding. We are grateful for Japan’s unwavering support and friendship, and we look forward to a brighter and more prosperous future together,” she added.

During Prime Minister Kishida’s speech at the Joint Session of the Congress at the House of Representatives, he reiterated his determination to defend a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), a commitment he made during his visit to the United States in January.

Kishida was the first Japanese head of state to speak at the Philippine Congress.

The Philippines and Japan celebrated the 67th anniversary of normalizing their diplomatic relations in July.

(ai/mnm)