The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with MINT College and Kids Acts Philippines Inc., proudly presents “Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana,” the Grand Winner of the Season 1 Young Creative Challenge (YC1) Playwriting Category, written by Esmeralda Cado Albis.
Bringing this remarkable work to life are some of the country’s award-winning theater artists, featuring original music by Eugene Belbis and stage direction by Luigi Nacario and Meldrig Costuna.
The musical highlights the uniqueness and significance of the Gulangulang observance, unveiling an enchanting tradition that reflects the faith and cultural heritage of the people of Camarines Sur in the Bicol Region. Through a reverent reenactment of a century-old religious rite still quietly practiced in Sitio Baras, Malitbog, Minalabac, the production offers audiences a rare glimpse into a living spiritual tradition.
Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana explores the interconnectedness of different realms—the human world, the ethereal plane, and the heavens—where the boundaries between life and death are transcended, allowing loved ones to reconnect beyond the physical world.
At its heart, the musical portrays a mystical expression of compassion and devotion, where love becomes a promise of eternal union that even death cannot sever.
Be captivated by the poetry and rhythm of Bicolano texts woven together with beloved Filipino folk songs, original compositions, and lyrics penned by the playwright herself. The production features a talented ensemble led by rising P-pop star Joshua Ryan Nubla as Arnold and Danielle Delica as Esmeralda, alongside Ces Dela Cruz-Guevara, Terence Guillermo, Rowel Robles, Zee Rizon, Rhoger Escorial, Josh Almeda, Ariz Pangilinan, Nina Ty, Ji Corpuz, Maxinne Lopez, Paulo Javier, Jesu Miguel Tan, Marcus Santos, Audrey Flores, Yassi Tan, Cheska Sangco, Bien Juni, and Chelsea Sangco.
“Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana, Isang Musikal” will be staged on June 10, 2026 (Wednesday), at 7:00 PM at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, 4F RCBC Plaza, Ayala Avenue, Makati City. Admission is free of charge, and everyone is invited to experience this moving celebration of Bicolano faith, culture, and tradition. Stay tuned for post-competition updates from the Young Creative Challenge by following @DTIMalikhaingPinoy and @YoungCreativesChallenge. To learn more and support Filipino creativity, visit www.malikhaingpinoy.ph.
