Cover (Photo: Edwin Bejer)

The Cultural Center of the Philippines invites you to a dazzling holiday event, celebrating Christmas and Filipino artistry

There’s no other place overflowing with culture than the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Established in 1966, CCP was created with the means to preserve and promote the Philippines’ arts and heritage. The home of traditions consistently withstood years of transformation and adaptation through its embodiment of three core values namely truth, beauty and goodness. And to further emphasize Filipino values, CCP’s programmes are acts of compassion that support excellence and reaffirm commitment to the development and growth of the nation; leading artists all over the country and even across the globe to seek the house of culture and forefront of arts for about 50 years.

See also: Inside Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, CCP's Newly-Built Blackbox Theatre

The Cultural Center of the Philippines is known to successfully produce and present theatre, music, literature, dance, cinema, design events and visual arts throughout the year. However, one of its most anticipated annual occasions is the light and sound show open to the public. And this year, CCP promises an experience like no other with their Christmas show and building façade lighting happening this December 15 at the CCP Front Lawn.

Tatler Asia
Binurda: CCP Christmas Show and Building Façade Lighting (Photo from CCP)
Above Binurda: CCP Christmas Show and Building Façade Lighting (Photo from CCP)
Binurda: CCP Christmas Show and Building Façade Lighting (Photo from CCP)

Aptly titled Binurda, CCP’s Main Building is set to metamorphose into a symbolic piña jusi woven with beautiful calado, or intricate embroidery and needlework complete with Sampaguita details. Its Christmas décors highlight an exploration of the heritage of the Philippines, honouring the warp of cultural traditions intertwined with the weft of the Filipino people’s stories. CCP Production Design and Technical Division chief Ricardo Eric Cruz and his team conceptualised the masterpiece to fit a “grand façade” gesture of appreciating the audience’s long history of supporting the premiere arts institution.

Also accentuating the temporary closing of the CCP Main Building until 2025, Binurda connotes the community’s anticipation and artistic promise of CCP’s new renovation.

From different suites formed as one festive tapestry, the concert will feature Tanglaw ng Hiraya, Pagmamapa sa Padron at Pinagmulan, Pagtatahi ng Ugnayan, Pagbubuhol at Pagbibigkis, and Paglaladlad at Pagdiriwang put together by director Dexter Santos. Each suite represents the various music genres that encompass different periods like in a dreamlike journey. With performances from the award-winning Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company, vocal duo Nightingales, the Male Ensemble of the Philippines or MEP, and other surprise performers—Binurda offers an unforgettable Yuletide celebration. Spend an enchanting night under the stars and in the presence of one of the country's historical landmarks brimming with passion, patriotism, and flair.


Following the new normal protocol, attendees are advised to wear face masks and bring vaccination cards or certificates. For the latest updates, follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tiktok.

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Kristina Isabel Oviedo
Features Writer, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

Kristina's passion to write came from her love for books. If her nose isn't buried in one nor her fingers are tapping away on a keyboard working on a write-up, you'll find her having a feast at a new restaurant or savouring coffee in the nearest shop listening to rock music. Also interested in computer games and all things Japan, she spends her free time playing Dota 2, watching anime, as well as reading manga.