Dr. Remedios T. Borromeo, founder of Karilagan Dance Society
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Our HistoryKarilagan Dance was founded by the late Dr. Remedios Borromeo in 1971. At its inception, the Society was consisted only of the Borromeo family. In 1982, the Society opened its membership to other young Filipino-Canadians who were born here or those who came in early childhood. Over the years, they performed throughout Edmonton, neighboring cities and towns. In 1986, they represented Edmonton in EXPO' 86 held at Vancouver, B.C. After so many years of dedicated work, the founder announced the end of the Karilagan during the 1989 performance because of her continuing health problem.
In 1989, a family-oriented group headed by Wilfredo Dimailig and Elmina Cochingco revived the Karilagan. With members, eight children and eight adults, the ailing founder collaborated another successful performance with her new group. The Karilagan under the directorship of Elmina continued the legacy started by Remy and her family. Since then, Karilagan performs during Heritage Days, Canada Day, Promenade, Klondike Days, at hospitals, extended care centres, schools, churches and many other fund-raising and cultural events. |
In May, 1995, the Karilagan honored and recognized the first Filipino Pioneers who came to Alberta between 1961 and 1969 for their valuable contributions to their own communities and to Alberta, as well as the Filipino Seniors. This event was in conjunction with the bi-centennial celebration of the City of Edmonton. In August of the same year, at the request of the Chair of the Filipino Pavilion, Karilagan performed during the three day Heritage Festival. Since then, the Karilagan has been the primary entertainer for the Filipino Pavilion on Heritage Festival that draws an average of 300,000 people every year.
During its 25th anniversary celebration in 1996, the Karilagan launched the Hiyas (Gem) Awards. This aims to recognize the achievements of deserving Filipino-Canadians in the field of academics, education, science, arts, business, sports and community service. With continued support from the Ministry of Alberta Community Development, Karilagan grants this award annually.
During its 25th anniversary celebration in 1996, the Karilagan launched the Hiyas (Gem) Awards. This aims to recognize the achievements of deserving Filipino-Canadians in the field of academics, education, science, arts, business, sports and community service. With continued support from the Ministry of Alberta Community Development, Karilagan grants this award annually.
The most rewarding experience for the Karilagan was winning the Best Pacific Rim Group of the Year award when they joined for the first time, the 1997 International Ethnic Dance Competition held in Surrey, B.C. Out of 12 entries, they took home four 1st prizes, three 2nd prizes, and two 3rd prizes. They also received a trophy and gold certificate for Best Pacific Rim Group. In June 1998, during the Philippine Independence Centennial Celebration, the Karilagan won the Katipunan Award for the performing arts group category and its artistic director Elmina Cochingco won in the individual performing arts category.
2000-2010The Karilagan had brought its cultural production to the United States . In August 2000, they performed in San Luis Obispo and San Francisco, California. In July 2002, they performed in Los Osos, San Luis Obispo, Whittier and San Jose, California. Also in the same month, the Karilagan performed at the Philippine Pavilion during the Klondike Days Exposition, when the Philippines was the featured country. The Karilagan dancers also graced the Philippine entry of the Council of Edmonton Filipino Associations (C.E.F.A.) at the Klondike Days Parade, winning the Best Entertainment and First Prize in Non-profit Association - Cultural category.
In December, 2002, the Karilagan commenced its Philippine Hiyas community newspaper. It is published quarterly and is circulated free of charge. In February, 2003, the Karilagan provided lessons in Filipino martial arts called Kali to its members through the instruction of a Filipino-Canadian martial art expert, Oliver Salvador. In March of the same year, the Karilagan gave recognition to the first Filipino Pioneers who came to Alberta in 1972 and before. During this event held at the Mayfield Inn, a candle lighting ceremony was performed by the very first Filipino teacher, nurse, engineer, medical technologist, band teacher, accountant, folk dancer, and the first Honorary Consul General. |
Ms. Elmina Cochingco, President, Artistic Director and Choreographer of Karilagan Dance Society
(1989 to present) |
In April 2003, the Karilagan started another Filipino Christian tradition, the Pabasa, which was hosted by the Reyes family, our first "Hermana". In July, the Karilagan, together with the Kalinangan Dance Troupe of Montreal participated in cultural exchange workshops held in Montreal and Edmonton under the sponsorship of Exchanges Canada . Having its own float, the Karilagan joined the Klondike Days Parade in Edmonton.
At the Miss International Canada 2003 beauty pageant held at Winspear Centre last July 2003, the Karilagan performed the opening number entitled, "Fairies in the Forest," and tribal dances with the Kalinangan Dance Troupe of Montreal.
In March, 2004, the Karilagan started Bandurya (a Filipino rondalla musical instrument) lessons conducted by our volunteer bandurista Mrs. Delia Reyes. In April, during its 33rd anniversary presentation held at Mayfield Inn, the Karilagan dances were, for the first time, accompanied by live music via drum, agong, kulintang, rainmakers, bandurya and guitar.
In July, 2004, the Karilagan performed two shows in New York City , at the Philippine Consulate and Queen's Botanical Garden. In August, the Karilagan performed the opening number entitled "A Child's Dream" portrayed by 5 year old Geline Cochingco at the Miss International Canada 2004 beauty pageant held at Winspear Centre. Then in September, the Karilagan Choir was formed under the direction of Marcelino (Chino) V. dela Torre. Its first project was "Caroling for Bantay-Bata 163", for the benefit of a Manila-based charitable institution that helps less fortunate children in the Philippines.
In August, 2005, the Karilagan performed the opening number at the Miss International Canada 2005 beauty pageant held at Winspear Centre. Karilagan dancer Micaela Smith won the prestigious title, she represented Canada in the Miss International competition in Japan in October. In September, the Karilagan fund raised for 3 year old Jasmine Salvador who was a victim of cancer. The money raised helped Jasmine to be treated in Mexico. She later died on January 19, 2006.
In April, 2006, Karilagan celebrated its 35th anniversary at the Mayfield Inn with a dinner, show and dances and also the 10th HIYAS (GEM) AWARD. In May, Karilagan competed in the Annual Town Fiesta Song and Dance Competition in Talavera, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, and took home thirteen trophies with nine first prizes, three second prizes and one third prize.
On January 11, 2007, tragedy struck home. Karilagan's choir director and adviser Marcelino (Chino) V. dela Torre passed away after a short battle with lung cancer, and on the celebration of his 40th day, on February 19, 2007, Azucena B. Molo, a long time volunteer member, also left us.
In March, 2007, Karilagan celebrated its 36th anniversary at the Coast Terrace Inn as a tribute to Chino and Cena . It also presented the 11th HIYAS (Gem) Award.
At the Miss International Canada 2003 beauty pageant held at Winspear Centre last July 2003, the Karilagan performed the opening number entitled, "Fairies in the Forest," and tribal dances with the Kalinangan Dance Troupe of Montreal.
In March, 2004, the Karilagan started Bandurya (a Filipino rondalla musical instrument) lessons conducted by our volunteer bandurista Mrs. Delia Reyes. In April, during its 33rd anniversary presentation held at Mayfield Inn, the Karilagan dances were, for the first time, accompanied by live music via drum, agong, kulintang, rainmakers, bandurya and guitar.
In July, 2004, the Karilagan performed two shows in New York City , at the Philippine Consulate and Queen's Botanical Garden. In August, the Karilagan performed the opening number entitled "A Child's Dream" portrayed by 5 year old Geline Cochingco at the Miss International Canada 2004 beauty pageant held at Winspear Centre. Then in September, the Karilagan Choir was formed under the direction of Marcelino (Chino) V. dela Torre. Its first project was "Caroling for Bantay-Bata 163", for the benefit of a Manila-based charitable institution that helps less fortunate children in the Philippines.
In August, 2005, the Karilagan performed the opening number at the Miss International Canada 2005 beauty pageant held at Winspear Centre. Karilagan dancer Micaela Smith won the prestigious title, she represented Canada in the Miss International competition in Japan in October. In September, the Karilagan fund raised for 3 year old Jasmine Salvador who was a victim of cancer. The money raised helped Jasmine to be treated in Mexico. She later died on January 19, 2006.
In April, 2006, Karilagan celebrated its 35th anniversary at the Mayfield Inn with a dinner, show and dances and also the 10th HIYAS (GEM) AWARD. In May, Karilagan competed in the Annual Town Fiesta Song and Dance Competition in Talavera, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, and took home thirteen trophies with nine first prizes, three second prizes and one third prize.
On January 11, 2007, tragedy struck home. Karilagan's choir director and adviser Marcelino (Chino) V. dela Torre passed away after a short battle with lung cancer, and on the celebration of his 40th day, on February 19, 2007, Azucena B. Molo, a long time volunteer member, also left us.
In March, 2007, Karilagan celebrated its 36th anniversary at the Coast Terrace Inn as a tribute to Chino and Cena . It also presented the 11th HIYAS (Gem) Award.
In April, 2008, Karilagan celebrated its 37th anniversary featuring the Ati-Atihan festival at the Coast Terrace Inn. It also presented the 12th Hiyas (Gem) Award. In September, Karilagan was invited to attend the Bonok Bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival in Surigao City where they learned the steps and had them joined the street dancing festival. Later in the evening during the awarding ceremony, Karilagan was their guest performer.
In March, 2009, Karilagan celebrated its 38th anniversary at the Palace Banquet with a dinner, show and dance showcasing Bonok-Bonok Festival. It also presented the 13th HIYAS (Gem) Award. In May, Karilagan attended the 24th Canadian Expressive Heritage Conference in Toronto. In August of the same year, Karilagan, for the second time, became part of the SEVEC Youth Exchanges Canada Program. They had an exchange with the Pamana Ng Luzviminda Dance Troupe of Montreal and experienced being part of the festival La Fete des Enfants de Montreal. In October, Karilagan showcased its production in Yellowknife and Evansburg, Alberta. In March 2010, Karilagan joined the Barcelona Dance International Competition and took home three major prizes, Best Ethnic Dance Group, Best Costume and the Pedagogy Award. In May, Karilagan performed in Carassaga Festival as part of the SEVEC Youth Exchanges Canada Program in Mississauga, Ontario. They twined with the Culture Philippines of Ontario dance group. |
2011-Present
In March 2011, Karilagan celebrated its 40th anniversary at the Winspear Centre featuring Pagbabalik Tanaw or Reminiscing, with the participation of Karilagan alumni. In August of the same year, Karilagan was featured in the front page of Edmonton Journal as they danced "Tinikling" during the Heritage Festival celebration.
In March 2012, Karilagan participated in the Azalea International Folk Fair of Valdosta, Georgia and took home three prizes, one in each division that they competed.: First prize - youth division, Judge's Choice Award - Adult Division - small group and 4th prize - Adult Division - Large Group. In the same month, Karilagan celebrated its 41st anniversary at Fantasyland Hotel featuring "Pinoy Kami, Kuha Niyo?" It also presented the 15th Hiyas (Gem) Award. In August 2012, Karilagan was part again of the SEVEC Youth Exchanges Canada Program. They had an exchange with Philippine Cultural Arts Society of British Columbia and experienced being part of the Pacific National Exhibition 2012. In March 2013, Karilagan celebrated its 42nd anniversary at Fantasyland Hotel featuring "An Enchanted Evening". It also presented the 16th Hiyas (Gem) Award. In December of the same year, Karilagan was featured on CTV Morning Live as part of their special program "Holiday After Haiyan", a fund raising for the victims of typhoon "Yolanda" (international name, "Haiyan.") An interview with Ronalyn de Mesa was followed by the dance "Binasuan", and a carol singing of the Karilagan choir. In August 2013, the Karilagan showcased the Filipino culture during the Heritage Festival for the last time after more than 20 years of reigning the stage of Philippine Pavilion. In January 2014, Karilagan participated in the 2014 Iloilo Dinagyang Festival in the Philippines where they won the Best Costume award during the Sponsor's Mardi Gras competition. Also in the same month, Karilagan shared their blessings to our kababayan in Sara, Iloilo who were victims of the typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan). They conducted a relief operation and distributed clothing, shoes, toys, blankets, and toiletries. In March 2014, Karilagan celebrated its 43rd anniversary at Fantasyland Hotel featuring "Sa Kabukiran" . It also presented the 17th Hiyas (Gem) Award.
In March 2017, Karilagan celebrated its 46th anniversary as a Tribute to Wilf Ladores featuring "Pinagmulan" at the Radisson Hotel & convention Centre. It also presented the 20th Hiyas (Gem) Award. In August, 2017, Karilagan returned to the stage of Philippine Pavilion during the Heritage Festival after three years of absence and was awarded Honorable Mention for Entertainment. In April 2018, Karilagan celebrated its 47th anniversary featuring "Mga Sayaw Pinoy" at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Center. It also presented the 21st Hiyas (Gem) Award. In June 2018, Karilagan participated in the World Dance Competition held at Disneyworld, Florida and took home 3 silver medals. They also had the opportunity to experience dancing in the Disneyworld Parade. |
In December 2014, Karilagan was a proud sponsor of the "Simbang Gabi"held St. Theresa Catholic Parish , organized by Knights of Columbus, Nazareno Council No 12904.
In March 2015, Karilagan celebrated its 44th anniversary at Radisson Hotel & Convention centre featuring "Lupa ng Kayamanan". It also presented the 18th Hiyas (Gem) Award . In May 2015, Karilagan launched its new website: karilagandancesociety.org In July 2015, Karilagan participated in the 12th Annual World Folk and Arts Festival in Las Vegas, Nevada and brought home the "Best Group" award after competing with 45 international dance groups. In March, 2016, Karilagan was featured regularly on a Filipino tv show called "Sariling Atin" run by Shaw Cable. In April 2016, Karilagan celebrated its 45th anniversary at the Radisson Hotel & convention Centre featuring "Celebration of 45 years of Philippine folk dancing". It also presented the 19th Hiyas (Gem) Award. |
In April 2019, Karilagan celebrated its 48th anniversary last April 27, 2019 as a tribute to its Adviser Leonardo"Len" C. Molo who passed away last July 4, 2018. It also presented the 22nd HIYAS(Gem) Award recipients. It featured "Piliin Ang Pilipinas-Choose Philippines".
In June 2019, Karilagan competed in the Dance Grand Prix Italia 2019 in Cesenatico, Italy and took home two gold awards, Best Ethnic Dance Group and Best Pedagogy Award.
On December 28, 2019, Karilagan performed at the Edmonton Expo Centre during the MBPL All Star Weekend- An Evening with Manny Pacquiao and Gerald Anderson.
In March, 2020, Karilagan celebrated its 49th anniversary last March 14, 2020 at the Radisson Hotel Edmonton South. It also presented the 23rd HIYAS (GEM) AWARD recipients. The show featured "Samo't - Sari" - Pinoy Diversity.
In March 2022, Karilagan celebrated its 50th anniversary at the Royal Palace, Edmonton, Alberta. It was attended by hundreds of alumni, it also presented the 24th Hiyas(GEM)AWARD and the 1st Karilagan Award of Eexcellence.
In March 2023, Karilagan showcased the Filipino traditional dances in Hawaii during the Honolulu Festival.
On June 3, 2023, Karilagan celebrated its 52nd anniversary at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre, Sherwood Park, Alberta. It also presented the 25th HIYAS(Gem) AWARD recipients. The show featured "Pagdiwata"
On June 11, 2023, Karilagan performed in Grande Prairie, Alberta during their celebration of the 125th Philippine Independence.
To date, the Karilagan has 64 performing members, 12 non performing members and 57 volunteer parents.