By ROY C. MABASA

The Kontemporaryong Gamelan Pilipino (Kontra-GaPi), a performing arts ensemble from the University of the Philippines, is set to embark on a 10-day cultural tour of Morocco this June—its first-ever performance series in Africa.

The visit marks a significant moment in Philippine diplomacy, coinciding with the 127th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence and the 50th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Morocco.

“This is a milestone event that underscores our shared appreciation of cultural diplomacy,” said Philippine Ambassador to Morocco Leslie Baja, who announced the tour as one of the major highlights of this year’s commemorations.

Founded and led by Professor Pedro “Edru” Abraham Jr., Kontra-GaPi is known for its dynamic integration of indigenous Filipino instruments, chant, ritual, and movement into performances that are both deeply rooted in tradition and strikingly contemporary.

For over 30 years, Abraham has guided the ensemble in showcasing the cultural soul of the Philippines to audiences worldwide.

Ambassador Baja, who previously hosted the group in Switzerland during his post there in 2013, recalled the energy of their performances.

“He has this knack of bringing out the artistic side of his audiences,” Baja said of Abraham. “I am sure, this time, he will rock Morocco.”

Alongside their performances, Kontra-GaPi will offer lectures and hands-on workshops designed to introduce Moroccan audiences to the Philippines’ vibrant and diverse indigenous artistic heritage.

The initiative aims to promote cross-cultural understanding through direct engagement with traditional Filipino music and dance.

“Art can bridge diverse cultures,” Baja emphasized. “And Kontra-GaPi is uniquely positioned to do just that.”

The ensemble’s Moroccan tour forms part of a broader cultural diplomacy campaign by the Philippine government to strengthen national identity and foster international artistic exchange.