Writer/director Behn Cervantes, first vice-president of UPAA, led a group of UP alumni who donned Santa Claus hats and carolled patients and their families and medical staff at the Children’s Hospital and East Avenue Medical Center last December 19.
The all-volunteer group, which had the backing of the UPAA, included mezzo-soprano Maricris Joaquin; baritone Joseph Olfindo; sopranos Emelyn Santos, Cecile de Joya, Nini Jorge and Gabi and Tata Francisco, and tenors Dondi Ong and Thad Liamzon. The songs consisted of a full repertoire which included such classics and favorites as “Joy to the World!”, “Pasko na Naman”, “Jingle Bells” and “Pasko na, Sinta ko”.
From the East Avenue Medical Center, the group proceeded to the home of National Artist Andrea Veneracion, founder of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, who suffered a stroke a few years ago and is still in recovery.
The carolling was conceived by Prof. Cervantes as an alternative to traditional carolling which has become just “another form of begging”, according to Cervantes.
(Adapted from “UP alumni go carolling” by Noelani Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer, December 23, 2011)
View the Image Gallery below (photos courtesy of UPAA):