Filipino pride takes center stage this Friday at BurJuman Mall as the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration kicks off with Kalayaan at Pag-ibig, an Off-Broadway-style musical that captures the triumphs and trials of Filipino life abroad.
Presented as a tribute to Filipino heritage, the musical breathes life into the emotional reality of an overseas Filipino family based in Dubai. Through original songs and powerful storytelling, it dives deep into themes of distance, sacrifice, love, and longing — offering a mirror to the Filipino diaspora’s shared experience.
At the heart of the story is Tatay Ramon, played by Rommel Sergio, a Dubai-based educator who carries the weight of fatherhood with quiet strength. The family’s matriarch, Inay — voiced by Elizabeth Catubig — remains in the Philippines, serving as an anchor for the family despite the distance. Wilben Garcia portrays Marco, a man haunted by missed opportunities and the ache of separation, while siblings Jay and Diana — brought to life by real-life siblings Denzel and Dianna Magat — face their own struggles navigating love and the demands of working life in the city. Jaira Carranza rounds out the cast as Jaira, a bright student balancing her studies with personal growth.
Kalayaan at Pag-ibig promises more than just entertainment — it aims to spark connection. Every member of the cast was handpicked not only for their talent but for the personal stories that parallel those of the characters they portray, lending the performance raw authenticity that resonates with OFWs and families alike.
Audiences can expect not just a musical journey but also a full day of activities, live performances, and raffles — all tied together by the vibrant spirit of Filipino freedom and community.
