MANILA – On February 16, 2026, Guang Ming College (GMC) Performing Arts Laboratories (PALs) joined the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Mabuhay Temple community for the Chinese New Year celebration, taking the Main Shrine stage at 8:30 PM after the traditional Dragon Dance. For GMC, now based in Tagaytay, these moments of encounter with the FGS community are rare and deeply meaningful.

The PALs, consisting of the Guang Ming Theatre Ensemble, Guang Ming Dance Project, Guang Ming Ritmo, Guang Ming Chorus, and Guang Ming Cuerdas presented a repertoire performed in honor of the Buddha and in deep gratitude and remembrance of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, who celebrates his 100th year this 2026. The program expressed gratefulness for the past year and welcomed the New Year, featuring Prelude, Triple Gem, and Eight Noble Path, alongside FGS favorites such as Chao Shān, Wǒ Yào Gēsòng Shīfu, and Hé Xīn Nián. Original student-choreographed works, Strings and Ballet, offered glimpses of the students’ creative exploration.

Guided by the Performing Arts faculty – Jason Nuyda (Cuerdas), Jacques Dufourt (Ritmo), Arjay Viray (Chorus), JM Cabling (Dance), Wincy Ramilo (Technical Direction), Ralph Jade Tampal (Script), and Katte Sabate (Overall Direction) – the performance became more than a showcase of talent. Even across the distance of campus and city, GMC’s presence reflected the heart of its community, embodying Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teachings to give joy, hope, confidence, and convenience. Through shared gratitude, artistic expression, and sincere engagement, the College created a living bridge of respect, warmth, and human connection with the FGS community.

For GMC, participating in the celebration was not only a way to mark the Lunar New Year but also an opportunity to express gratitude, foster relationships, and share meaningful moments of joy with a community it deeply values.

As the celebration concluded, GMC looked forward with renewed energy and welcomed the New Year 2026 – the Year of the Fire Horse – with hope, joy, and aspirations for continued growth and harmony.