Volume 21 • No. 13 • July 1-15, 2025
Publication Mailing Account #41721512
Noli et Fili echoes in Manitoba’s halls
Myrna Esguerra
Credit: Myrna’s IG
Opera fuses Rizal and Kundiman in a Canadian first
The Honourable Anita Neville, Lt. Governor of Manitoba, joins the cast of Noli et Fili, a groundbreaking Filipino opera staged in Manitoba’s halls of power. by Emmie Joaquin Editor-in-Chief
Calendar Girl, Myrna Esguerra Binibining Pilipinas International Story on page B8
The rotunda of the Manitoba Legislative Building was filled with pride and excitement as the Filipino community came together for a historic presentation of Noli et Fili, a new Filipino opera inspired by the novels of national hero Dr.
José P. Rizal. Held on Rizal’s birthday, June 19, the performance was part of Manitoba’s celebration of Filipino Heritage Month. It was proudly hosted by Minister Malaya Marcelino, in partnership with the Knights of Rizal and the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba (PHCM).
What sets Noli et Fili apart is its bold vision: to elevate Filipino classical music and language through the power of opera. Conceptualized, written, and directed by Ronald Mervin Sison, a tenor by passion, the opera weaves together Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo into one See NOLI A6
Historical marker for Winnipeg’s Rizal Monument unveiled
HAPPY CANADA DAY
ALAMIN ANG INYONG KAPALARAN Basahin sa pahina B8
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L-r: Kenn Green, Dr. Carmina R. Arevalo, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Executive Director, Felino De Jesus, Regalado Trota Jose Jr., National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairman, Ronaldo Opina, Mohamed Alli, Ray Anthony Sator, Joel Duque, Perla Javate, Councillor Vivian Santos and MLA Cindy Lamoureux. Story on page B5. Photo by Rey-Ar Reyes.
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