It had been some years since I’d attended an improv show, but the memory of leaving with a sense of creativity and aching sides from laughter was still pretty vivid. 

On Sept. 6, on an early evening that was finally not plagued by typhoons, I made my way to RCBC Plaza’s Carlos P. Romulo auditorium. The Israeli Embassy in Manila had brought over Duda, an improv trio composed of actors Tal Zolti and Matan Goren, along with musician Elad Yishay. They were in town to participate in this year’s Manila Improv Festival (MIF) held from Sept. 7 to 10.

Before the festival officially kicked off, Duda held a special performance for the embassy and its friends. This performance was not just about laughter and entertainment. It was a tribute to the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Israel and a heartfelt homage to the late Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Susan “Toots” Ople.

Secretary Ople, the first head of the newly minted DMW, was known for being a staunch advocate of migrant workers’ rights. She also founded the Blas Ople Policy Center, a non-profit named after her father, the late Senate President and Foreign Affairs Secretary Blas Ople.

Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss, in his welcoming remarks, lauded Ople and recalled their close partnership. “In my close collaboration with her, I had the privilege of witnessing her unwavering commitment and compassionate leadership,” he reflected. “Her unique blend of pragmatism and empathy made her a formidable advocate for OFWs.”

Secretary Ople’s daughter, Estelle Osorio, also spoke at the event. “You mentioned a while ago that you are friends of Filipinos and migrant workers. I really could feel the sincerity of that friendship, because you didn’t have to honor my mom this way. It’s beyond what is required of you,” Osorio said. “Still, you dedicated this evening to her and I heard that you change the theme of the event to reflect migrant workers in honor of my mom. So, deeply, as her daughter, I am super grateful for the friendship that you extend to my mother and to my family.”

The ambassador also underscored the profound and historical ties between the Philippines and Israel, highlighting the pivotal role that cultural cooperation has played in strengthening this bond. He noted that approximately 30,000 Filipinos call Israel their home, with the majority engaged in the caregiving sector.

“The contributions of OFWs to their homeland are immeasurable. They are the backbone of the Philippine economy, providing vital support to their families, serving as ambassadors of goodwill, and fostering understanding and friendship worldwide,” said Ambassador Fluss.

He further shared a personal connection with an OFW in Israel, illustrating the dedication, hard work, and compassion exhibited by OFWs. He mentioned Edna, his father-in-law’s caregiver, as an example of these exceptional qualities. The ambassador expressed gratitude for Edna and all OFWs in Israel, who have dedicated their lives to caring for the elderly and those with special needs.

“Tonight, as we honor the OFWs, the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines proudly presents Duda, composed of Elad, Tal, and Matan, who came here as invitees to the Manila Improv Fest to perform at the opening event happening tomorrow,” the ambassador announced.

He also highlighted Duda’s unique connection with the OFW community in Israel. “Before they came here they met the community of OFWs and witnessed their reality in Israel,” he explained.

Through their exceptional improvisational talents, Duda took the audience on an artistic journey that resonated deeply with the lives and experiences of OFWs. The performance was filled with laughter, empathy, and profound understanding, serving as a heartfelt tribute to these dedicated individuals. 
The improv group also invited some of the audience to go on stage with them. At one point, Mme. Riita Laakso, who is the wife of Finnish Ambassador Juha Pyykkö and president of the Spouses of Heads of Mission (SHOM), was the one on stage performing with Duda.

Hailing from the Israeli national theater Habima, Duda’s journey into improvisational storytelling began as a break from the monotony of nightly performances of the same play. Over time, they honed their craft, developing a distinctive style that would navigate the fine line between order and complete chaos. Their dedication to the art of improvisation has taken them to festivals around the world, including Finland, Sweden, Bulgaria, Denmark, and now, the Philippines.

The dedication of this improv show to OFWs and DMW Secretary Susan Ople exemplified the power of cultural exchange and artistic expression to bridge cultures and celebrate the unsung heroes who play a vital role in our global society. It underscored the deep bonds of friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and Israel, and the enduring legacy of individuals like Secretary Ople, who dedicated their lives to advocating for the rights and wellbeing of OFWs.

Should you wish to catch improvisation workshops taught by members of Duda while they are in Manila, you can find the schedule at https://manilaimprovfestival.com/.