Culture resonates through song

The PLCAA GLEE CLUB (PGC) have made themselves known in the community as a mixed group of talented singers, under the musical direction of Danny Morilla, Rie Manaloto and Choir Master Maya Ibarra.

The Philippine Language and Cultural Association of Australia (PLCAA) founded the PGC to promote Filipino culture through music and dance. Inspired by their performance of the song “Dahil Sa Iyo” (“Because of You”) at the Read Philippines Project book presentation in Penrith on 12 February 2008, they persevered and recruited more members. In addition to its awesome singing, the group is now also known for its vibrant choreography, led by Marie Bandayrel and Divina Ibarra. Vocal performances often match the theme of the events where the group performs. With great support from family and friends, the group headed towards a fulfilling journey of service and fun.

PGC treasures the wonderful camaraderie that emanated from their debut at the 2008 Mayoral Musicale held at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre. They astounded the large audience with their first songs, the popular “I Will Follow Him” and a Filipino song “Ang Pipit”. These songs became identified with PGC and their first public appearance will never be forgotten. It was the catalyst to have regular rehearsals adding more variety songs to their repertoire.

PGC, through its musical performances, acts as Penrith’s ambassador of Philippine culture. In addition to PLCAA organised events in the City of Penrith, the PGC travels to communities in NSW including Auburn, Bathurst, Blacktown and Campbelltown. They performed at special events including annual Philippine Independence Day celebrations, Philippine Cultural Day, Mayoral Musicale, Penrith’s Harmony Day, Philippine National Day Ball, 20th year Anniversary of PCC-NSW , 20th year Anniversary of Aguman Association, Abot Kamay Concert for Typhoon Ondoy victims and at Shine Concert for Queensland Flood Appeal.

PGC’s repertoire includes traditional Filipino songs: Ang Pipit, Bakya Mo Neneng, Ikaw ang Mahal Ko, Hahabol Habol, Atin Cu Pung SingSing, Saranggola ni Pepe and PenPen de Sarapen; Modern Filipino songs: Manila, Bongga Ka Day and Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo ; Christmas songs : Pasko Na Naman, Ang Pasko ay Sumapit, Noche Buena, Feliz Navidad and Give Love on Christmas Day; Special Songs rendered at themed events: I Will Follow Him, You’ll Never Walk Alone, We Are One, I will Sing Forever, Medley of Just the Way You Are & You are the Sunshine of My Life, Happy Talk, Bali Hai and Some Enchanted Evening.

PGC has been fortunate to have thirty-eight members who are truly blessed with amazing talents. The community waits in anticipation for its next performance. PGC already has a line-up of invitations in its schedule. Thanks to PGC, the community is alive with Filipino music and Filipino talents.