Reviving Drum Traditions in the Philippines: A Cultural Journey
Ana Pista, the visionary Founder and CEO of Ardent Communications, a prominent integrated marketing communications agency in the Philippines, recently took part in the One Beat, One World: Connecting Through the Drum carnival and 5G Live Concert held in the bustling city of Hong Kong. Immersed in the dynamic atmosphere of the event, she found new inspiration to breathe life into traditional Filipino drumming and cultural celebrations, aiming to showcase the rich heritage and artistry of her homeland on a global stage.
Ana Pista (right), founder and CEO of Ardent Communications, tries her hand at drumming together with a friend
The event, organized by the HongKong Chinese Orchestra and presented by the Chinachem Group, was a vibrant celebration of the unifying power of drum beats. It showcased how rhythm and music can transcend borders, fostering connections among diverse communities. Attendees experienced an array of performances that highlighted the cultural heritage of drumming traditions, emphasizing their significance in various cultures around the world. Through this celebration, the event not only entertained but also promoted appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds that drum music represents.
For Pista, the event served as a significant celebration and a model for what the Philippines could potentially accomplish in cultural engagement. She emphasized the importance of the drum, stating, “It’s not just an instrument; it represents the heartbeat of our culture.” Pista expressed admiration for Hong Kong’s efforts in promoting culture and the arts on an international scale, noting that the recent event attracted 30,000 attendees, including many foreign guests. She hopes the Philippines can replicate this success but emphasizes the need for such events to be inclusive, ensuring they cater to all generations.
Reviving drum traditions: A vision for the Philippines
Inspired by HongKong’s vibrant cultural showcase, Pista said she intends to draw from iconic Filipino festivals such as the Sinulog, Kadayawan, and Ati-Atihan, which prominently feature drumbeats as the lifeblood of their celebrations.
She envisions transforming public spaces like Luneta Park into thriving cultural hubs, much like it was in the past, when the national government championed arts and culture in the country.
“Drumming has always been deeply rooted in Filipino culture, from indigenous rituals in the Cordilleras to the lively street parades of the Ati-Atihan. Reviving these traditions could spark a cultural renaissance that strengthens our identity, caters to younger audiences, and drives tourism and economic growth,” Pista emphasized.
The HongKong experience
The One Beat, One World carnival was a masterclass in cultural inclusivity, blending traditional and contemporary elements to engage audiences of all ages.
Japan’s tap dance performance, which creatively integrated drum sounds, and India’s Tabla and Dance performance, which blended intricate rhythms with graceful movements, highlighted how cultural heritage can be presented with a twist.
“The event showed that culture doesn’t have to remain static — it can evolve and appeal to younger generations while retaining its roots,” Pista noted.
Other performances featured in this year’s event also showcased drum and dance troupes from across the globe, including:
- China’s Lanzhou Taiping Drum by Yonghong Peace Drum Troupe, showcasing intangible cultural heritage.
- Malaysia’s Orang Orang Drum Theatre, combining drumming with theatrical storytelling.
- Korea’s Bukchum (Drum Dance) by The Little Angels Art Troupe, highlighting synchronized artistry.
- Hong Kong’s Dragon and Lion Dance Team, delivering an electrifying display of local traditions.
Interactive workshops and cultural displays also reinforced Hong Kong’s role as a global cultural hub, drawing praise from international participants.
Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra conductor Wong Kin-Ping praised Pista’s vision, saying, “Music and rhythm transcend borders. By helping foster cultural events, Ms. Pista is not just preserving traditions but building bridges that connect communities.”
For her part, Pista believes that revitalizing cultural events in the Philippines could not only preserve traditions but also provide significant economic and tourism benefits.
“Imagine Luneta Park filled with the sound of gongs and drums, children trying to learn traditional dances, and communities coming together to watch featured performances from the Philharmonic Orchestra. These events could attract both domestic and international tourists, generate jobs, and instill a sense of pride in our cultural identity,” she said.
In the end, the One Beat, One World carnival can serve as a shining example of how culture can be both a unifying force and an economic catalyst. With 30,000 attendees, including foreign tourists, the event demonstrated the potential for large-scale cultural events to boost tourism and foster global connections.
A shared vision for the future
As Pista drums alongside performers in Hong Kong, she is determined to bring the same energy and inclusivity back to the Philippines.
“Cultural events should cater to all generations,” she said. “We need to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, ensuring that our heritage resonates with everyone.”
Her participation in the carnival is a significant first step toward her mission to celebrate and preserve Filipino culture while drawing inspiration from global events. By creating spaces where heritage meets modernity, Pista aims to ensure the rhythm of Filipino culture continues to inspire and unite for generations to come.
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Read: Visiting Ten Drum Culture Village in Tainan City, Taiwan
