Description

A vivid portrait of a sunrise‑kissed riverside village unfolds in lyrical verse, where the gentle flow of the Pasig sets the stage for a festive gathering. The play opens with a chorus of children singing praises to nature and the Virgin, while bright flags and blooming flowers flutter against the early light. Light, melodic accompaniment once performed in Manila’s Ateneo hall brings the scene to life, inviting listeners to hear the river’s whisper and the rustle of cane reeds.

Amid the merriment, a lively troupe of youngsters—Cándido, Pascual, and their companions—debate the merits of toys, birds, and music, each eager to contribute to a communal bench decoration. Their playful rivalry quickly turns to teamwork as they search for their missing leader, Leónido, and plan a colorful procession toward the church. Through humor and gentle rivalry, the first act captures the spirit of Filipino camaraderie, youthful exuberance, and a shared reverence for tradition, setting the tone for the melodrama that follows.

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