History takes center stage as LIYAB, the country’s first major musical performed entirely by active-duty soldiers, premieres at the Metropolitan Theater on August 13 and 14, 2026. The production marks an unprecedented collaboration between the Armed Forces and the civilian creative community, demonstrating how the performing arts can become a powerful platform for nation-building, cultural preservation, and nationalism. 

Presented by Teatro Kaugnay in collaboration with KreativExpo Inc., the Metropolitan Theater, and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), LIYAB showcases the extraordinary talents of the Philippine Army’s only theater company composed entirely of active-duty soldiers. 

Inspired by the vision of MGEN Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, Commander of the 7th Infantry Division, whose mission has expanded the role of the military beyond traditional service by embracing the arts as a means of education, cultural enrichment, and national unity. 

Created by Captain Ralph Andy Ranario, who also wrote the book and lyrics, LIYAB tells inspiring stories of courage, sacrifice, resilience, and nationalism through an original blend of music, dance, and theatrical storytelling. More than a celebration of Filipino heroes, the production invites audiences to reflect on the enduring values that continue to shape the nation’s identity. 

While every performer on stage is an active-duty soldier, LIYAB is equally a celebration of collaboration. The production unites military personnel with some of the country’s creative professionals, highlighting how the arts can bridge institutions, inspire dialogue, and bring communities together in pursuit of a common purpose.

Leading the civilian creative team is Lean Jurado of KreativExpo Inc., who serves as Creative Director, Co-Director, Set Designer, and Lighting Concept Designer. Joining the creative team are Joshua Rico Santos (Additional Choreographer), Bon Franz Raphael Gonzalez (Vocal Coach) and Jerico Rutaquio Namoro (Music Arranger and Sound Designer). Also part of the creative team are the talented soldier-artists of Teatro Kaugnay: Second Lieutenant Beatriz Crystal Calumpang as Associate Vocal Coach, Corporal Jay Balequia  as Choreographer, and Private First Class Fresher Jr. Madrid as Visual Designer, Photographer, and Videographer, further exemplifying the seamless collaboration between military and civilian artists in bringing LIYAB to life. 

More than a theatrical production, LIYAB represents a growing movement that strengthens the partnership between the Armed Forces and the creative sector. By combining artistic excellence with military discipline, the production seeks to inspire a deeper appreciation for Filipino heritage, encourage meaningful conversations on national identity, and ignite a renewed sense of nationalism among audiences of all generations.

Following its Metropolitan Theater premiere, LIYAB aims to reach schools, local government units, communities, cultural institutions, and audiences across the country, bringing its message of courage, unity, and love of country to more Filipinos.

LIYAB will be staged at the Metropolitan Theater on August 13 and 14, 2026, in celebration of Buwan ng Wika, Buwan ng Kasaysayan, and Araw ng mga Bayani.

**For tickets: **

Ticket2Me – https://ticket2me.net/LIYAB

For ticket inquiries, contact: 0908 888 5634 / 0915 517 9686

ADVT.

**This article is brought to you by KreativExpo. **