On November 30, 2025, despite experiencing the most snowfall in Chicago for the month of November, the Kapwa Collaborative Benefit Gala was a resounding success! Held at the elegant Allegra Banquets, the event drew an overflow crowd, primarily composed of essential and healthcare professionals who graced us with their love for community through dance and music. Presented by KAPWA Outreach and Information (KOI) Institute and CIRCA Pintig, with contributions from Gemma Esmalla and Angela Mascarenas, this gala featured the Rizal Center as a beneficiary among other community arts initiatives. Guests were treated to a captivating performance titled Panubad: Halad ug Pangaliya, a first in Chicago that beautifully wove together spoken word, prayer, and indigenous music and ritual dances from the Ifugao and Manobo communities.
Local artists Evelyn O Francia, Shyla Kosanam, Kayla Tejero, RJ Silva, Mikael Silan, Lani Montreal, and Anna Nicolasin, along with band members from Sona Umbra and Sugar Hornet, showcased their incredible talents, while host Nick Vera Perez guided the program with charm and Chicago Party Master, DJ Richie Gil, lit up the dancefloor. The highlight of the evening was the world-class performances by renowned pianist and singer Ester Hana and Sofronio Vasquez, the winner of The Voice Season 26. Their charisma and rapport with the audience left everyone wanting more, with many requesting Sofronio to return to Chicago for an encore concert!
We are filled with gratitude for the beautiful photos captured by Rey and Jane Quiaoit Miran during the Panubad performance. This special segment served as an invocation, acknowledging the land and our shared spirit, featuring a heartfelt 3-part prayer written by Jerry Clarito, beautifully woven together with indigenous dances. Participants in the Panubad included Levi Aliposa, Emil and Alpha Nicolasin, Jerry Clarito, Ginger Leopoldo, and Shyla Kosanam, whose contributions enriched the experience. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dong Robles for the outstanding video coverage, and we are grateful to Peoples Media Advocacy Asia (PMAA) and photographer JM Robles for their support in documenting this memorable night. A special media highlight was provided by Bilyonaryo News Channel, reported by Dong Robles, which beautifully captured the essence of the event.
A huge thank you to our Sining Kambayoka siblings, Dick Yuzon and Rowena O’Mary, for their invaluable assistance with the concept and for teaching us the lyrics, music, and movement for “Ginawaak Manema.” The event was a true celebration of our culture, showcasing the incredible talents of local artists and the vibrant spirit of our community. A heartfelt thank you to the organizers, sponsors, lead partners, volunteers, and all supporters and guests who contributed to making this event a remarkable triumph for the Community Arts Fund.
Mabuhay and padayon!
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