UP’s Tanghal Tertulia recognized in 38th Aliw Awards

(This is a press release from the UP System Media and Communication Office.)

The University of the Philippines’ flagship cultural program Tanghal Tertulia emerged as one of three winners in the much-coveted Best Special Events Production category at the 38th Aliw Awards, held at the Fiesta Pavilion of The Manila Hotel on Monday, December 15.

Tanghal Tertulia distinguished itself as the only special event mounted by an educational institution of higher learning to be shortlisted and ultimately recognized in this highly competitive category — underscoring UP’s leadership in advancing arts and culture on the national stage.

Launched in 2024, Tanghal Tertulia traces its origin to an inspired evening at the UP Executive House Amphitheater, when UP President Angelo Jimenez delivered an impromptu poetry performance, moved by the swaying bamboo trees and the twinkling stars under a clear night sky. That moment sparked a vision for a regular artistic gathering honoring UP’s National Artists.

Jimenez then tasked Fina Dela Cuesta Tantuico of the UP Philippine Association of University Women to convene an ad hoc committee to conceptualize a program that would celebrate UP’s creative legacy and inspire new generations of Iskolars ng Bayan.

The name “Tanghal Tertulia,” coined by Professor Emeritus Jose “Butch” Dalisay, draws from the Spanish tradition of the tertulia — a gathering for literary and artistic exchange.

“When we set up Tanghal Tertulia, we did not set out to win any awards. In fact, our motivations were far more modest,“ said Jimenez. “Sitting as we do on a powder keg of creative talent, it was impossible not to ignore the fact that 44 of the country’s 81 National Artists came from UP. Tanghal Tertulia was our way of putting a spotlight on that legacy, and of sharing it generously with the public. We accept this award on behalf of mga Artista ng Bayan at mga Iskolar ng Bayan. UP Fight!”

Tanghal Tertulia is made possible through the collaborative leadership of Atty. Fina Dela Cuesta Tantuico (VP for Public Relations, UP Philippine Association of University Women); Dr. Patricia Brillantes Silvestre (Dean, UP College of Music); Toym Imao (Dean, UP College of Fine Arts and Chair, UP President’s Committee on Culture and the Arts); Dr. Grace Javier Alfonso (Executive Director, TVUP); and Atty. Edlyn Frances V. Verzola (President, UP-PAUW), whose collective vision and stewardship have transformed the program into a nationally lauded cultural institution.

Joining Tanghal Tertulia in the winners’ circle for Best Special Events Production are “That’s Amore – RMA” and “JL 75th – The Beatles Concert” — both ticketed, commercial productions. In contrast, Tanghal Tertulia stands apart as a free cultural offering that is open to the public, reaffirming UP’s mission to democratize access to the arts and bring artistic excellence to the widest possible audience.

Building on this milestone, preparations are now underway for the next edition of Tanghal Tertulia on February 21, 2026, which will honor three more living National Artists from the University of the Philippines, continuing UP’s enduring commitment to celebrating artistic excellence and inspiring future generations through the transformative power of the arts. – Rappler.com