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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Arts and Culture devider Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival: A celebration of heritage, rhythm, and creativity

Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival: A celebration of heritage, rhythm, and creativity

Published May 20, 2026 10:28 am
Daloy Dance Company x Aliens of Manila, wearable art by Leeroy New
Daloy Dance Company x Aliens of Manila, wearable art by Leeroy New
On May 23, 2026, the historic Puerta Real Gardens in Intramuros will once again come alive with the sights and sounds of the 12th Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival. Known for bridging cultures through music and art, Malasimbo has become a cornerstone of the Philippine creative calendar, drawing audiences from around the world to experience its unique blend of artistry, heritage, and community.
This year’s edition is headlined by Julian Marley & The Uprising, delivering soul‑stirring reggae rhythms infused with messages of love and unity. As the son of reggae icon Bob Marley, Julian continues his father’s legacy while bringing his own powerful voice and energy to the stage.
The festival also shines a spotlight on local talent, with performances by Jeck Pilpil & Peacepipe, Anima Tierra and Selah Dub Warriors, ensuring that homegrown artistry resonates alongside international icons.
Beyond the music, Malasimbo transforms Puerta Real Gardens into a living gallery. Installations by celebrated visual artists—including Jinggoy Buensuceso, Mic Rahman, Simon Te, Cherry Fulo, Hohana, Veronica Ibarreta, Hare King, Sim Tolentino and the Indie Green Culture Family—invite audiences to wander, reflect, and immerse themselves in creativity. At sunset and during headliner sets, the Daloy Dance Company, adorned in wearable art by Leeroy New and Olivia d’Aboville, will weave through the crowd, blurring the boundaries between performance and audience.
Families are warmly welcomed, with the Kids Village offering activities from Bambike rides and drum workshops to solar panel building with Liter of Light, origami workshops, nature weaving, crochet, poi, sticker workshops and kids yoga. Meanwhile, the Battle of the Brush brings visual art to life as four pairs of painters from Alitaptap Art Community and ACAP Foundation create works in real time, with the crowd voting for their favorite.
Festival founder Miro Grgić reflects: “Malasimbo has always been about bridging cultures through music and arts. Hosting these iconic artists in Intramuros is a celebration of heritage, unity, and global creativity.”
With its rich program of music, art, dance, and family‑friendly activities, Malasimbo promises to be one of the most memorable nights in the Philippine cultural calendar. Tickets are now available at www.malasimbo.com.
Malasimbo gratefully acknowledges the support of its partners: The British Council, JB Music, Search Mindscape Foundation, Battle of the Brush, Vital 1, and The Art House.

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