Bukas Palad at 40: A lookback into four decades of music and ministry

Bukod Palad Ministry

If you didn't know who the Bukas Palad Music Ministry was in name, you would still likely know them through songs that have helped shape both religious music and the soundtrack of modern Filipino spirituality. From liturgical standards like “Anima Christi” and “Tinapay ng Buhay,” to devotional pieces like "I Will Sing Forever," "Tanging Yaman," many of their songs have now become embedded in mainstream Filipino culture, commonly played during weddings, graduations, baptisms, ordinations, and funerals.

It all started when nine friends were invited to sing at a wedding. At that time, they were already compiling songs that they had written as early as when they were in high school, but the group never really planned to establish a music ministry. Until a Jesuit priest encouraged them to start recording their songs for a fundraiser. After that wedding, we sang at Fr. Joel Tabora's priestly anniversary ordination. And then he said, Why don't you record your music to raise funds for my parish in Commonwealth? " It was for Kristong Hari Parish," said co-founder Jandi Arboleda. "And we did. That was the beginning of us officially documenting our songs through cassette tapes."

From there, the ministry continued to grow organically, gradually expanding through word of mouth and tapes sold in little shelves within the Ateneo de Manila University, all before they even had a name. 

"Our recordings were actually selling well, so that encouraged us to produce even more albums," said co-founder Norman Agatep. "When we launched our third album, which was Tanging Yaman, that was when we decided to go with the name Bukas Palad Music Ministry, based on the title of our first album."

"Forty years later, the members remain humbled by the ministry’s impact and how people continue to appreciate their music, here in the country and abroad."

"I am moved to tears, actually. Despite our own limitations, it is amazing what grace has been able to do through Bukas Palad for the past 40 years. How people have warmly embraced our music and how they have generously supported our ministry are very humbling,"  said co- founder Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ.

Jandi recounted one overseas trip back in 2008 where he met a group of Filipinos who were singing Bukas Palad songs because they couldn't celebrate Mass. "I sang for them for an hour and a half, and they cried. I asked, "Why are you crying?" They said it was because of our music that kept them together as a community."

Through the decades, their creative partnership remained a constant thread, reflecting their lifelong commitment to the ministry. And even as their personal paths led them toward vastly different life callings—Fr. Manoling entered the Society of Jesus in 1985, and Jandi has been working with Deaf communities in the US since 1997—they would find their way back together to create music every now and then.

"Norman really has been the one keeping the fort. We would share our new songs with him and Palan Reyes, the group's musical director, and they would arrange, record, and continue to perform. So, we're really thankful for Norman and Palan," Fr. Manoling said.

For the founders, the ministry's longevity comes from being able to constantly respond to the needs of the Church and society. Albums are produced with context in mind, and even recent releases have been arranged to fit modern listening habits. At the same time, their purpose remains service rather than artistic experimentation for its own sake.

From left to right Fr. Manoling Francisco, Jandi Arboleda and Norman Agatep

"For example, our last album was specifically designed for a streaming audience. Therefore, we had to rearrange the songs to engage people who are listening to Spotify while ensuring they would still be simple enough to be sung at church," Norman said.

"If you trace our albums through the years, you will notice that each was produced for a specific reason depending on how society and the church were during those times," he added.

As their music spread to parishes and communities, the group became increasingly conscious of gaps in the spiritual repertoire. This led them to intentionally compose music for Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, and new translations of the Mass, as well as for various modes of prayer and religious celebrations. Their role shifted from artists inspired by personal experience to ministers responding to the Church’s needs.

"We became more aware of the lacunae in the repertoire of Filipino religious music. So, we started filling them in, writing purposely and deliberately to provide our choirs with music for different seasons or with the new English translation of the Mass, for instance," Fr. Manoling said.

"Then we wrote a new Mass setting for the visit of Pope Francis. We were commissioned to write a new setting that was multilingual so more people around the country could make it their own. We also produced albums for various spiritual celebrations—meditative music for quiet retreats, chants for communal singing, and contemporary hymns for youthful worship gatherings. Over time our vocation as music ministers became clearer, not simply as artists writing anything we wanted or anything that moved us, but now more deliberately, to serve the needs of the Church," Fr. Manoling continued.

But what inspires Bukas Palad members the most to continue carrying their mission forward is hearing the stories of those who have been moved by their songs: of how it soothes the terminally ill, how it eases the pain of being far away from home, how it helps relationships stay stronger. It's those stories of people who have embraced our music that have truly motivated us to sustain our ministry,"Fr. Manoling said.

"I think it's God's grace. That's Him and the Holy Spirit working through the music and through the people we've touched," Jandi said.

Across four decades, more than a hundred members have passed through Bukas Palad, creating a multi-generational ministry where membership is seen as a lifelong commitment. Members are drawn to the music and its mission, driven by the spirit of volunteerism. This volunteerism is a core pillar of the Bukas Palad identity, where every member contributes freely out of devotion to the ministry. They don't get paid for their contributions, and all song royalties are channeled directly back into supporting the group's efforts, including the workshops they conduct for music ministers, and liturgical songwriters, and outreach programs held in remote areas across the country.

Even their 40th anniversary concerts were produced almost entirely by members, with the scripts, choreography, arrangements, audio-visual presentations, and performances largely done internally. "It’s only the second time that we've had a concert with a cast this large on stage. And so, people really made an effort to come here and volunteer for various tasks to make the production even more memorable," Norman said.

As the ministry embarks on a yearlong celebration of its 40th anniversary, those who have embraced their music can experience their heartfelt musical testimony firsthand through a series of special performances scheduled across the Philippines and internationally, beginning with several dates in Australia in July, followed by performances in various Ateneo campuses throughout the rest of the year, among others.

"But apart from Ateneo campuses, there are invitations where we will be performing almost the same repertoire, which traces the history of Bukas Palad and how we've grown in the last four decades," Norman said. "And then we're capping the celebration with a new album in June of 2027."

Beyond their yearlong celebration, their first hope is to be able to commemorate their 50th anniversary still intact, especially since the first generation of their members are now in their sixties.

"We probably will be in wheelchairs or remote," Jandi joked. "But the celebration of our 50th will be according to God's will and how He designs it in our different lives. And again, we have over a hundred members, and I'm sure we all have a lot to look forward to in the next 10 years."

For four decades, Bukas Palad has been pouring their passion into their music with the intent of creating something that will resonate deeply with others. Ultimately, they wish to be remembered not just for their music, but for the ways it offered people solace during difficult times and amplified their greatest joys.

"Hopefully, our songs may have comprised their playlists. Their journey through the ups and downs of their respective lives. Hopefully, our music would have accompanied them and deepened their faith and trust in the Lord and embolden them to make commitments and to serve the wider community," Fr. Manoling said.

"It's also our desire that we empower others to be able to write their own songs, to put into music their own feelings and their faith," Norman said.

The Pain Map: Navigating Upper vs. Lower Belly Trouble

 

Masakit ang tiyan? Sure ka bang tama ang gamot mo diyan?

Filipinos tend to treat “masakit ang tiyan” as one simple problem with one go-to solution. But is it really that simple? A stomachache can mean many things: kabag, pangangasim ng sikmura, constipation, or even cramps. Same stomach, different causes, so when it comes to getting over that belly pain, it’s never a one-size-fits-all answer.

Instead of guessing, it helps to understand what your body is actually telling you. Think of your

belly as a map. Each zone corresponds to different organs, so where it hurts can reveal just as

much as how it feels. Read both right, and you’re not just guessing— you’ll actually get to the

bottom of it.

The Upper Belly Pain: Is it Indigestion—or Something Worse?

Upper belly acting up? That familiar flaring up or hapdi, uncomfortable bloating, or a sharp, gnawing pain? That’s not just a random stomachache; that’s usually hyperacidity or pangangasim ng sikmura. These are often felt above the navel, up to the chest area, and tend

to show up after meals— especially after that extra spicy, oily, or that “promise, last na ‘to” moment.

This kind of discomfort is your digestive system reacting in real time. The usual suspects are indigestion, acid reflux, and kabag. Same upper belly zone, but different triggers. Manageable at first, but if the pain sticks around, worsens, or comes with red flags like vomiting, fever, or unexplained weight loss, that’s your cue to stop guessing and get it checked.

The Lower Belly Trouble: Just a Passing Cramp—or Something More Serious?
Creative Visualization

If the pain hits around or below the navel, it may be linked to Functional Abdominal Cramping Pain (FACP). Think hilab, ipit, tusok—the kind of pain na namimilipit sa sakit, and it often comes and goes.

FACP can appear on its own or with symptoms like pagtatae (diarrhea), constipation, or bloating. One minute you’re fine, the next you feel butterflies in your stomach—and not the kilig kind. It’s not always triggered by food either. Stress, pressure, and kaba can also directly affect your gut.

At its core, this type of pain is tied to how your digestive system functions—factors like gut sensitivity, intestinal muscle movement, or even an imbalance of “good” and “bad” bacteria can all play a role. But if the pain becomes severe, one-sided, or comes with fever, nausea, or difficulty urinating, don’t brush it off. That’s your sign to get it checked.

What Can You Do For Upper and Lower Belly Pains

This is where it gets practical. If it’s upper belly pain caused by acid, antacids can help calm the burn. If it’s lower belly cramps, that’s where antispasmodics like Hyoscine N- Butylbromide (Buscopan) come in to ease the tension.

Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) is a naturally derived antispasmodic suitable for adults and children over 6 years old. It treats pain at the source, works in as fast as 15 minutes, and provides all-day relief—while helping reduce the intensity and frequency of lower belly pain episodes.

For milder cases, Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) is recommended for light to moderate abdominal cramps, while Hyoscine N-Butylbromide Paracetamol (Buscopan Plus) is designed for more severe cramping. The usual dose is 1–2 tablets, 3x a day for not more than 3 days, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Busco-Mono-ConPack

Busco-plus-ConPack

Your body’s not being dramatic—it’s being specific. Masakit ang tiyan isn’t just one thing, and where the pain hits is a clue, not a coincidence. Go back to the map: upper or lower, hapdi or hilab—each one points to a different cause, and a different solution.

Read it right, and you can stop guessing and choose the right care—whether it’s for pangangasim ng sikmura, kabag, constipation, or cramping pain like FACP (where antispasmodics like Buscopan can help).

Because at the end of the day, hindi lahat ng sakit ng tiyan pare-pareho—and your treatment shouldn’t be either. And when in doubt, it’s always best to consult your doctor.

IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

A Cultural Fashion Exhibit in Honor of the 128th Philippine Independence Anniversary

 

Designers Circle Philippines Draped in Valor, Fashioned in Freedom at The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel once again opens its Grand Lobby to a celebration of heritage, artistry, and national pride with Draped in Valor, Fashioned in Freedom: 2026 Philippine Independence Showcase, presented in partnership with Designers Circle Philippines.

Glenzze Mark Aquino

In celebration of the 128th Philippine Independence Anniversary, this year’s exhibit is anchored on the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan.” The showcase brings together a striking collection of Filipiniana gowns and locally woven textiles that reflect the country’s rich cultural identity and evolving creative spirit.

Bepz Torres

Rafael Gonzales

Guests stepping into the Grand Lobby are welcomed into a visual journey through iconic Filipino silhouettes and contemporary design, from the elegance of the terno, to the graceful Maria Clara and the intricately crafted indigenous weaves from across the archipelago. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to embody the colors of the Philippine flag: red for patriotism and courage, blue for justice, peace, and truth, white for equality and fraternity, and yellow for the sun and stars, symbolizing democracy, freedom, and unity.

Edwin Uy

Gian Abrigo

Set against the historic backdrop of The Manila Hotel, the exhibit transforms the Grand Lobby into a gallery of Filipino pride, where fashion becomes both expression and tribute. Admission is free, inviting guests to experience this celebration of culture and creativity.

Glennze Mark Aquino

“This exhibit is our way of honoring Filipino artistry while giving it a space where it can be seen, appreciated, and celebrated. The Grand Lobby has always been a witness to our nation’s history, and through this showcase, we continue to tell stories of national pride, identity, and freedom," says Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

Alistaire Balance

Draped in Valor, Fashioned in Freedom runs until July 10, 2026, at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel.

 For more information, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph. 

What to eat when you’re under the weather

 

A bowl of warm soup may help relieve nasal congestion and provide comfort during recovery from a common cold. 

When you have a bad cold, sore throat, or the flu—common conditions that spread quickly during the rainy season—the last thing you want to do is eat. A clogged nose blocks your sense of smell, which in turn, affects your ability to taste. Fever elevates your body temperature, resulting in dehydration and dry mouth. High temperatures also impede the enzymes in taste receptors from sending taste messages to the brain. And swallowing is sheer torture when your throat is severely inflamed.

Still, if there was a time to get nourishment, it’s now, says Maricar Esculto-Khan, RND, MD, a medical/clinical nutrition specialist from top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “A sick person needs the calories, nutrients, and fluids to boost their immune system, prevent dehydration, reduce inflammation, increase energy, and hasten healing,” explains Dr. Esculto- Khan. “The old wives’ advice to ‘Feed a cold, starve a fever’ should be revised to ‘Feed a cold AND a fever.’ Eating the right foods are critical to your recovery.”

Choosing highly nutritious foods like vitamin-and mineral-rich fruits and vegetables is, of course, a given when you’re down with an infection. But specific foods can help make eating while you’re on the mend a comforting experience.

Sore throat: Soft food, warm broth—and ice cream?

A sore throat or pharyngitis is either a viral or bacterial infection that usually progresses to a cold and cough. Because the tissue lining your throat is inflamed, eating and drinking are difficult and painful. But when you don’t eat and drink, you risk dehydration and calorie deficit.

“Warm chicken tinola, beef nilaga, or vegetable broth like bulanglang and law-uy or salabat with honey are soothing to a scratchy throat,” says Dr. Esculto-Khan. “Soft foods like arroz caldo, banana, and scrambled egg are easier to swallow.”

“Contrary to the belief that cold food and drink should be avoided when you have a sore throat, ice water and popsicle or ice cream can have a numbing effect and help ease the pain. Just avoid varieties that are high in sugar, which may otherwise promote inflammation,” adds Dr. Esculto-Khan. “Cold food and drink can help soothe a dry and inflamed throat.”

Common cold: Citrusy fruits, spicy soup

Otherwise known as rhinovirus, the common cold is a highly contagious upper respiratory tract infection that starts as a sore throat and eventually affects the nose, sinuses, and windpipe.

“The thick mucus we produce when we have a cold works to trap the virus, while a runny nose flushes it out,” underlines Dr. Esculto-Khan. “Notice how your mucus turns yellow or green? That indicates that your white blood cells are fighting the infection.”

“Citrusy fruits, savory broths, ginger teas, and plain water ensure you don’t get dehydrated,” assures Dr. Esculto-Khan. “If you can tolerate it, go for a spicy soup like a tom yum to clear congested nasal passages. Lugaw (rice porridge) or oatmeal are bland but filling dishes that you can have when your sense of taste is not quite back yet.”

“Additionally, citrusy fruits are rich in vitamin C, which is beneficial in boosting the body’s immune defense.”

Flu: The BRAT Diet

Influenza, a viral respiratory infection, is the whole shebang: A high fever is typically accompanied by a cold, cough, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, and general feeling of malaise.

Again, staying hydrated and ensuring you regain your strength through healthy calories are key. “A chicken, beef, or vegetable broth, ginger or peppermint tea, coconut water, and a cooling popsicle can make you feel better while you recover,” recommends Dr. Esculto-Khan. 

“If food tastes bitter or metallic, the BRAT Diet—that’s bananas, rice, applesauce, toast—are bland and gentle on the tummy. For protein, try chicken or fish in small pieces.”

When you are sick, it’s only natural for your appetite to be off while your immune system fights disease. “Consume small, frequent meals and sips of water instead of forcing yourself to eat the way you normally would,” reminds Dr. Esculto-Khan. “Once the infection has resolved, your body will know it, and you’ll be back to eating like before.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Where to Celebrate Father's Day in Manila: Beer, Premium Buffet and Signature Fragrances at Lanson Place Mall of Asia

 

Finding the perfect way to celebrate Father's Day can be a challenge, especially for families looking to create meaningful memories beyond the usual dining experience. This year,

Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila offers a fresh take on the occasion with a Father's Day celebration that combines exceptional cuisine, free-flowing drinks, and a personalised keepsake designed especially for dads.

Taking place at Cyan Modern Kitchen, the hotel's signature all-day dining destination, Dad's Beer and Bites invites families to gather over a generous buffet featuring premium favourites such as Roast Beef Sirloin, Baked Salmon Fillet, BBQ Pork Baby Back Ribs, Sliders, and an extensive selection of international dishes and Cyan signatures.

Priced at PHP 3,600 nett per person, the experience includes free-flowing mocktails, soda, wine, and draft beer, making it an ideal setting for raising a toast to fathers and father figures.

What sets the celebration apart is the introduction of a Signature Perfume Bar, where dads can immerse in a fragrance experience of their own. Guests will have the opportunity to select a signature scent and take home a perfume bottle as a memorable keepsake from the occasion.

As more families seek experiences that are both meaningful and memorable, the combination of elevated dining and personalised gifting offers a unique way to honour fathers this Father's Day.

Located on the third floor of Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Cyan Modern Kitchen provides a stylish and welcoming setting for families looking to celebrate together while enjoying thoughtfully curated food and beverage experiences.

For reservations, visit the website at lansonplace.com/mallofasia or contact +63 917 812 8061.

Lanson Place Mall of Asia is located at Block 12, Palm Coast Avenue corner Seaside Boulevard, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. Follow its official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram) to find out more.

For more information or to register for free membership, visit lansonplace.com/loyalty.