PH Consulate General in Milan presents concert celebrating Filipino music diplomacy

MILAN, Italy — The Philippine Consulate General in Milan presented the acclaimed Filipino vocal ensemble Cor et Anima in a special concert, bringing together diplomats, members of the Filipino community, and an Italian audience for an evening of music that celebrated Filipino artistry and strengthened cultural ties between the Philippines and Italy.

Held under the patronage of the Comune di Milano, the concert that was held at the Teatro Fontana on June 29 formed part of the Consulate's cultural initiatives marking the 128th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence.

The event was attended by Philippine Ambassador Nathaniel Imperial, who highlighted the importance of strong people-to-people connections in reinforcing the growing bilateral relations between the Philippines and Italy.

The guest of honor was Vice Mayor Anna Scavuzzo, Comune di Milano representative, who emphasized the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Philippine Ambassador to Italy Nathaniel Imperial, Philippine Consul General in Milan Jim Tito San Agustin, Comune di Milano representative Vice Mayor Anna Scavuzzo. Photo: Gilmar Taebas

Founded by six classically trained Filipino musicians, Cor et Anima — Latin for "Heart and Soul"— is composed entirely of alumni of the University of the Philippines College of Music and former members of the internationally acclaimed Philippine Madrigal Singers.

Now based in the United States and the Netherlands, the ensemble is known for its exceptional vocal artistry and expressive storytelling, performing a wide-ranging repertoire that spans sacred music, opera, classical masterpieces, folk songs, contemporary works, and popular favorites.

Following their performance at the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Carmine the previous day, the ensemble captivated theatergoers with a carefully curated program that celebrated both Italian and Filipino musical heritage.

The audience enjoyed beloved Italian classics such as "O mio babbino caro" from Gianni Schicchi, "Libiamo ne' lieti calici" from La Traviata, "O Sole Mio", "Con te partirò", "Nella Fantasia", and the iconic "Volare" (Nel blu dipinto di blu).

The Filipino repertoire showcased timeless compositions including Ryan Cayabyab's "Paraiso," "Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi," and "O Bayan Ko," as well as Antonio Molina's "Hating Gabi," "Sa Kabukiran," "Manila, Manila," and "Tagumpay Nating Lahat," highlighting the richness and diversity of Philippine music.

Filipino flutist Jean Clarizz Petrasanta performing Antonio Molina's Hating Gabi, accompanied on the piano by Philip Mabunga. Photo: Gilmar Taebas

One of the evening's highlights was a guest performance by Filipino flutist Jean Clarizz Petrasanta, currently pursuing a Master's degree in Music Performance at the Conservatorio "Antonio Vivaldi" in Italy.

An award-winning musician, she performed Antonio Molina's "Hating Gabi," accompanied on the piano by Philip Mabunga, drawing warm applause from the audience.

In his address, Consul General Jim Tito San Agustin described music as a powerful bridge between cultures, saying that through its evocative power, the concert honored the Philippines' heritage while sharing the warmth of Filipino culture with the people of Milan.

He also expressed the Consulate's sincere appreciation to the Comune di Milano for its steadfast support of Philippine cultural diplomacy, noting that the close partnership between the city and the Philippine Consulate continues to strengthen friendship, mutual respect, and people-to-people ties between the Philippines and Italy. — BAP, GMA News