News Release

The Tabernacle Choir's 'Himig ng Pag-asa' World Tour Finale: A Night of Inspiration in Tagum City

The Tabernacle Choir's ''Himig ng Pag-asa" World Tour Finale Inspires Tagum City Community

A night filled with music at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, as the renowned The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square concluded its world tour with a breathtaking performance titled "Himig ng Pag-asa" on Wednesday, February 28th, 2024. The concert featured the Filipina Broadway icon Lea Salonga, and YouTube sensation Ysabella Cuevas with celebrity TV personalities Suzi and Paolo Abrera as hosts.

Amid the grandeur of the concert, the Tagum Philippines Stake stood out, hosting a vibrant Watch Party for the event's live streaming. Selected as the featured unit to represent the Philippines Butuan Mission, the Tagum Stake, with the support of the Area Communication logistics team, created a communal atmosphere where over a hundred attendees, including Tagum City Vice Mayor L. Allan Rellon, The United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) interfaith worker-couple Gary Estrada and Lhorlyn Hiso- Estrada who also represent TV 5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation as field correspondents. The presence of Stake Patriarch Edgar Mendoza added to the event's significance, and guests were touched by the thoughtful gesture of receiving copies of The Book of Mormon.

In Tagum City, the Sison Chapel became a beacon of joy and celebration as it was adorned with culturally-inspired decorations. The efforts of stake members, led by the Tagum Communication Council and supported by the Tagum Institute Council and the youth, infused the venue with a festive atmosphere. The colorful flaglets and the enthusiasm of all involved mirrored their excitement and anticipation. The concert's live-streaming success highlighted the Facilities Management Team's thorough planning and teamwork, providing smooth support both physically and technically.

Among those who had traveled to Manila to watch the first live repertoire on February 27th, was Sister Virginia Cuyong. Her words stood out as she spoke of a "change of heart," and also embraced the promise of hope and resilience amongst the Filipino audience as she witnessed firsthand the choir's inspiring performance.

The Tagum Philippines Stake's initiative to bring the concert's spirit to their local setting was a profound demonstration of their commitment to nurturing friendships and spiritual connection. As the melodies of the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square echoed through the Sison Chapel, the Tagum Philippines Stake stood united, a vivid embodiment of faith and harmony. The efforts exerted at the stake level painted a picture of a community deeply rooted in its values, unveiling the true essence of "Himig ng Pag-asa" - a melody of hope that resonates beyond the concert halls.

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