Manila, The Philippines – Visa’s musical production Lukot-lukot, Bilog-bilog is now streaming online for free, to promote financial literacy to children and youths while they stay home. The musical can be accessed through Tanghalang PIlipino’s Youtube channel as part of its PangsamanTanghalan initiative that makes stage plays more accessible to Filipinos worldwide during the pandemic.
Lukot-lukot, Bilog-bilog was launched in 2017, together with partners Tanghalang Pilipino and Teach for the Philippines as part of Visa’s financial literacy program. The musical features teenager, Gwyneth who was given birthday money to pay for entrance exam fees. The play focuses on Gwyneth’s journey in learning money management, with guidance from her grandfather Lolo Sally, best friend Jing-jing, and national heroes who magically come to life.
“The pandemic has disrupted children’s education, but it has also given them more time to learn life skills such as money management, that are not usually taught in traditional classrooms. By making the skit accessible online, we hope to inspire more children and youths to make smart financial decisions, and help educators teach financial literacy online,” said Dan Wolbert, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines and Guam.
Since its launch, the musical has already reached over 36,000 students and teachers nationwide. Now on its virtual run, the play will be accessible to more children and educators around the country.
“Our live performances of Lukot-lukot, Bilog-bilog really showed the power of storytelling in making ideas like money management concepts relatable and memorable to kids,” said Carmela Manuel, Tanghalang Pilipino Company Manager. “In our new virtual stage, we hope online viewers can enjoy learning with Gwyneth and her remarkable mentors.”
While watching the musical at home, young students can learn about saving, budgeting, and avoiding unnecessary expenses while watching the characters sing and dance to original Filipino music.
“Now more than ever, we need more digital resources in continuing children’s education. With the musical going online, financial literacy has become more accessible to students and teachers. We are glad to promote it to our networks, and hope that it will be utilized by parents and other educators out there.” said Patricia Feria-Lim, Teach for the Philippines Trustee.
