Teatro Kaugnay Stages Musical 'LIYAB' to Honor Philippine History

• Teatro Kaugnay, the Philippines' only all-soldier theater group, performed the original musical 'LIYAB' at the Metropolitan Theater on August 13, 2026.
• The production celebrates Philippine heritage during 'Buwan ng Wika' (Language Month), 'Buwan ng Kasaysayan' (History Month), and 'Araw ng mga Bayani' (National Heroes Day).
• The show incorporates a mix of poetry, traditional 'kundiman' music, and rap to explore national identity and historical struggles.

Historical Narrative

• The one-act play spans a chronological timeline of Philippine history:
  • Starts with Jose Rizal’s 'Noli Me Tangere'.
  • Moves to the era of Gabriela Silang.
  • Highlights the 1800s revolution involving Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio.
  • Recounts the contributions of Gen. Vicente Lim during the Philippine Commonwealth and his defense against American forces.

Production and Vision

• Spearheaded by the Philippine Army, KreativExpo Inc., the Metropolitan Theater, and the NCCA.
• Artistic vision by Maj. Gen. Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, who aims to integrate arts, culture, and military values.
• Libretto written by Captain Ralph Andy Ranario.

Future Plans

• Following the Manila premiere, 'LIYAB' will embark on a regional tour targeting schools and local communities to foster national unity and appreciation for Filipino heritage.