On 17 March 2025, by invitation of the Ministry of Culture, the Philippines participated in this year’s Ramadan Nights held at the Cairo Opera House. The Ramadan Nights is an annual event during Ramadan that features performances such as musical bands, traditional dances and songs that show the traditions of Islamic cultures of participating countries. Performers for this year were members of the Filipino community in Egypt sponsored by the Philippine Embassy.
Before the showcase of performances, Ambassador Ezzedin Tago delivered a speech welcoming the guests, thanking the volunteer performers as well as the Ministry of Culture and the management of the Cairo Opera House. Ambassador Tago mentioned that the majority of Muslims in the Philippines are from Mindanao, whose culture is unique and diverse. He informed that Islam reached Jolo in the 13th century and from there the religion flourished among the eleven Mindanao indigenous groups. Ambassador Tago also highlighted that just like Egyptians, Filipinos value family and community. Family gatherings , especially during significant religious occasions and life events reinforce relationships and ensure the preservation of cultural practices which will be passed down to the younger generations. This would reflect in the culture and various art forms such as those shown during the night’s performances.
The performances for the night featured traditional Mindanao dances and modern songs inspired by the region. There was also a narration of how early Muslim Filipinos learned the Arabic alphabet through the Quran as well as a Quran reading. The performers included members of the Filipino Cultural Group and members of the Philippine Students Association in Cairo.
The Filipino Cultural Group in Egypt is headed by stage director, Ms. Nova Beatriz Madkour, and musical director, Mr. Antonio Jr. Carreon. The Filipino Chorale, a subgroup of the FCG sang the national anthems and three songs. There was also a solo performance of the popular Egyptian song, “Helwa ya Baladi,” by Ms. Yara Mapandi. The dance subgroups performed the Malong Malong Dance, the Fan Dance, the Asik Dance, and the Kulintang Dance. Meanwhile, eight-year old, Mr. Mohamad Siano Campong, read verses from the Quran.
There were around 300 who attended the show. The audience were composed of officials of Cairo Opera House, members of the Filipino community, locals and other guests.
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