The Concerned Artists of the Philippines stands in solidarity with the musicians of the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO), who were compelled to cradle their violins throughout a flight after being prevented from bringing their protective cases into the cabin. While we recognize that airlines may invoke existing regulations, this incident exposes a deeper failure of policy. This exposes the absence of clear and responsive guidelines that recognize the unique realities of artistic labor.
Instruments are not ordinary baggage.
Instruments are specialized tools of work with value unmeasurable solely in pesos, but in the years of discipline, care, and creative practice invested in them.
Musician to Musician – a shared statement:
“Violins aren’t gadgets. They are wood, glue and decades— sometimes centuries, of careful handwork. So when our MSO musicians held their ground at that gate, they weren’t being difficult.”
“I play an antique French violin. The maker has been dead for over a hundred years. If my violin breaks in a cargo hold, there is no factory call. Walang, ‘Ay sorry po ma’am, may bago po kami.’ It’s just gone FOREVER.” (From Princess Ybañez, CAP member)
For artists, the instrument is an extension of the body. Just as a painter relies on a brush, a photographer on a camera, or a writer on a pen, musicians depend on their instruments to create, perform, and earn a living. To risk damage to these tools is to jeopardize an artist’s capacity to work. No instrument means no performance, no income, and often significant financial burden before an artist can return to producing another body of work. The experience endured by the orchestra’s musicians reflects a broader disregard for the material conditions that make cultural production possible.
The Concerned Artists of the Philippines therefore calls on the Philippine government to urgently study and review existing airline regulations concerning the transport of artistic and cultural equipment. We demand policies that provide clear guidance for both airlines and passengers while ensuring the protection of artists’ livelihoods. The treatment of cultural workers should not depend on ad hoc negotiations at boarding gates. Since we value Philippine culture, then we must also value the instruments, tools, and creative labor that sustain it. Artists deserve policies that protect not only their property, but their capacity to create, work, and serve the public through their art.
“It is our hope and prayer to be able to play for you, and through our music, bring a greater appreciation for our culture and recognition of the incredible talent and spirit of the Filipino artist. Each time we play our violins and violas and any of our instruments… we play for you!” (Official Statement, Manila Symphony Orchestra, 21 June 2026)
