FGPIS in Balik Saya 1.0: A Truly Bongga Night

When it comes to achievements, many people focus on the success, the bright idea of winning something incredible. No one really knows the big and small hardships beneath them, but we do.

OWWA opened its first Balik Saya event in Riyadh. Balik Saya 1.0, created to remind the OFWs of their colorful and diverse culture, featured dance performances prepared by Philippine schools located in Riyadh. Each school was assigned a cultural Philippine festival to showcase at the Cultural Palace, Diplomatic Quarter. FGPIS particularly being appointed to Bacolod's Masskara Festival. The date was set—December 6, 2024—and everyone was eager to participate.

Preparation started with the teachers, who planned everything left to right. Gathered were the voluntary participants from their esteemed Senior High School department, already busy with ongoing research and advanced education, yet hoping to showcase their potential to the world. The props and costume, meticulously created by various teachers and students, brought a vibrant impression on anyone who was watching. Masks that were sourced directly from the people of Bacolod presented FGPIS's desire to exhibit a true and authentic representation of Bacolod's local artistry and identity. The most outstanding component of it all was the choreography, that was remarkably led by Trs. Raychelle Tolentino, Robert Guanzon, Jomar Aborquez and Robin Mallillin. What was about to be presented possessed the true spirit of Masskara. With this, FGPIS was already on the path to championship, and everyone was ready.

There were quite a few challenges, though, as time was spent preparing for the event. Because of the late decision to join the program, the school had a much shorter time to practice compared to other schools. On top of that, both students and teachers alike had to balance this along with their studies and schoolwork. Despite this, everyone put their blood, sweat, and tears into delivering such a bongga performance. This was, however, cut short by OWWA announcing a sudden delay of the program only two days before the event. Due to “unexpected conditions”, a new date was set: February 14, 2025. All efforts seemed to be wasted, and devastation seeped through, but still, everyone continued to push through.

Finally, the day of the event came, with all schools, staff, and VIPs present. Students, both dancers and spectators, arrived through rented buses and were warmly welcomed by the Filipino community. Homely bowls of lugaw were catered to the audience and participants, and the program soon started. Adorned with the presence of His Excellency Ambassador Raymond Balatbat, FGPIS, along with other schools, definitely shined in their festive Masskara dance performance, bringing home awards such as “Best in Theme Concept”, “Best in Costume and Props”, and “Sponsors’ Choice Award”. Everyone finally made it, delivering a truly bongga performance.