The Inaugural

About seven years ago, Mid-Atlantic Foundation for Asian Artists (MAFFAA) launched a series of staging of Noli Me Tangere Le Opera(NMTLO) in major cities on the eastern seaboard of the country. Dr. Lorna Imperial, MAFFAA Co-Founder, wanted to celebrate the successes of the NMTLO, and at same time to give back to the community. Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Philippine National Hero and author of the book Noli Me Tangere, was one of the Filipinos who studied abroad. They were called The Ilustrados. Their powerful sense of nationalism became a propaganda movement hoping for reforms and eventually freedom of the Philippines from the atrocious 300-year rule of Spain. Thus, The Ilustrado Ball was conceptualized.

Mister iLustrado Revealed

The Ball was held in November 2017 in Maryland with so much success. Part of the proceeds was donated to the Marawi Victims. The entertainment was astonishing with Caucasian tenor and soprano rendering classical Philippine Kundimans. Allan Palacios Chan, an upcoming Tenor then, mesmerized the audience with his elegant musicality coupled with gentle “leggiero” style of singing. But the highlight of the evening was the revelation who was Mr. Ilustrado: Ramon Sumibcay. Flying across the Pacific, Mr. Ilustrado himself co-hosted the event, and captured the audience with his brilliant rendition of great songs. Mister ilustrado Ball was born.

The Modern Day Ilustrados

Through the years, the word Ilustrados has shifted to different significance in the Philippine context staying away from its elitist label. There were group of Filipino leaders, politicians, and business owners who exiled themselves due to unfavorable political climate in the country. They returned home to start a new movement – a revolution. In the 70’s and 80’s the Filipino Diaspora began. Many professionals notably the doctors and nurses were migrating to United States, Canada, UK and elsewhere seeking for better opportunities. Many of these professionals have been giving back to the country by way of Medical Missions, Community Outreach programs and educational conferences. Over 2 million Filipinos are now considered OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) working for a living in many corners of the world. Their total remittances are 25% of the country’s revenues. They are regarded as the Modern Day (Ilustrados) Heroes.

Whatever era an Ilustrado is re-introduced, there are common attributes: self-sacrifice, better opportunities, professional development, and the fervent connection to the Motherland. In the December issue of Fil-Am Courier, publisher Mary Cordero wrote: “the idea of Modern Day Ilustrado continues with similar national and liberal nationalist ideals, living a well-rounded life working towards one’s definition of success while making an impact in society.” The Noli Me Tangere the New Musical Concert had its debut staging in 2018. To celebrate the success of the Musical Concert, The Ilustrado Ball was supposed to be held but the plan did not materialize.