UPAA Singapore turns 15

2018 marks the 15th year of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association (Singapore). Since 2003, it has remained devoted to its mission of organising projects that benefit the University of the Philippines’ students and alumni. The flagship project, the UPAAS Scholarship Program, has assisted 12 scholars to date.

Full house benefit concert at the Philippine Ambassador’s residence

This year’s benefit concert for the scholarship program which was held at the Official Residence of the Philippine Ambassador in Singapore last 16 September 2018, featured two captivating musical performances. The 5-year old Shannon Teo opened the concert with modern standards “My Favorite Things”, “Fly Me To The Moon”, and “Tomorrow” that had the audience snapping their fingers and tapping their feet.

Shannon Teo’s energetic performance
Pianist Mescal Wilson and cellist John Kneiling

For the main performance, pianist Mescal Wilson and cellist John Kneiling’s playlist featured dramatic pieces from Beethoven, Messiaen, Rachmaninoff, and two pieces from Debussy that showcased the performers’ witty mastery of the piano and cello. It was an engaging evening of music that was also a fitting way to thank the various donors who supported the scholarship program. The event was graciously sponsored by Prudential Assurance Company Singapore and organised in partnership with the Embassy of the Philippines in Singapore.

Pianist Mescal Wilson and cellist John Kneiling, with Ambassador and Mrs Yap, and UPAAS president Ton Garcia and past president Minnie Lau

Written by Anthony Garcia (President, UPAA Singapore)