RAKRAKAN Festival 2023 is coming to Clark Global City, Pampanga on June 10 and 11, 2023. The festival organizers are excited to announce that they have released multiple additional batches of band line-ups for the event, featuring an incredible mix of established artists, emerging talent, and fan favorites from various music genres.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable music EXPERIENCE, then look no further than RAKRAKAN Festival. Every batch release adds to the already dynamic and exciting lineup, ensuring that attendees will have a fantastic time.
On Day 1, music enthusiasts can expect to see performances from RICO BLANCO, ZILD, DECEMBER AVENUE, BANDANG LAPIS, DIONELA, DILAW, GRACENOTE, MOONSTAR 88, JUST HUSH, IMAGO, CARISSA, TANYA MARKOVA, THIS BAND, BARBIE ALMALBIS, CHOCOLATE FACTORY, SIAKOL, THE YOUTH, WUDS, BASTI ARTADI, GREYHOUNDZ, RAZORBACK, WILABALIW, TYPECAST, FRANCO, VALLEY OF CHROME, BANDA NI KLEGGY, JUST HUSH, and more!
On Day 2, get ready for ADIE, UNIQUE, BLASTER SILONGA, MRLD, KEAN CIPRIANO, MAYONNAISE, SUNKISSED LOLA, MAGNUS HAVEN, OMAR BALIW, MIKE SWIFT, ZAE, KIYO, SILENT SANCTUARY, ALEX BRUCE, SYD HARTHA, DIONE, MARYAZRK, BROWNMAN REVIVAL, THE CHONGKEYS, DONG ABAY, TUBERO, 123 PIKIT, CHELSEAY ALLEY, QUESO, CHICOSCI, SAYDIE, PHILIA, EVEN, URBANDUB, and P.O.T.
But that’s not all! To make the festival EXPERIENCE even more enjoyable, the organizers have announced that they will provide Free Point-to-Point Bus Transpo for those who purchased 2-DAY tickets for GEN AD, VIP, AND S-VIP only. However, since slots are limited, it’s best to purchase your tickets now to secure your spots.
RAKRAKAN Festival offers affordable ticket prices, with 2-DAY General admission tickets now at P1199, 2-DAY VIP tickets priced at P1999, and 2-DAY S-VIP tickets at P2999. 1 Day (June 11 only) tickets are also available: Gen-Ad P599 and VIP P999. All ticket types provide access to all festival activities. To get more details and purchase tickets, visit www.rakrakanfestival.com or get them at all Sm Ticket outlets nationwide, Lazada, Shopee, and via rakrakan.beetzee.com.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of the music festival of the year! Join us at RAKRAKAN Festival for peace, love, and music.
From May 8 to 20, Project Hulmahan is setting foot at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby and Art Gallery. The art exhibit features a diverse range of artworks such as sculptures, paintings, and mixed media pieces—all using shoe molds—created by both established and emerging artists who share a passion for helping others through their art.
Walang Pares by Susan Fetalvero RocesThe First Step of Unlimited Journey by Japat Guevarra
“We looked for volunteer artists by posting publicly on Facebook who were willing to paint or make any kind of art out of hulmahan [shoe molds] that are no longer being used because the pandemic hit the struggling shoe industry in Marikina, the Shoe Capital of the Philippines,” relates Bernardo. The call for volunteers had a positive response that hundreds of artists all over the Philippines expressed interest. The Manila Hotel’s creative consultant Rachy Cuna, National Artists Maestro Ryan Cayabyab and Kidlat Tahimik, sculptors Pete Jimenez, Jonathan Dangue, Julie Lluch-Dalena, and thespian Dolly De Leon are some of the participating artists whose works are featured in Project Hulmahan.
Palakpaak by Toym ImaoPag-aalay by Rachy Cuna
Project Hulmahan is a brainchild of Zena Bernardo, one of the members of Ladies Who Launch (LWL) and one of the co-founders of Bayanihang Marikenyo at Marikenya. Ms. Bernardo met with shut down shoe manufacturers in her hometown, Marikina, and their group purchased almost 500 pairs of shoe molds with the intention of transforming them into artworks to earn funds for community- based activities.
“It is fitting that The Manila Hotel collaborates with inspiring ladies, as the Grand Dame celebrates ladies, especially mothers, in the month of May”, says Marvin Kim Tan, Director of Sales and Marketing of The Manila Hotel. Ladies Who Launch is a four-woman team made up of Zena Bernardo (mother of Ana Patricia ‘Patreng’ of the famed Maginhawa community pantry), Dolly De Leon, internationally-acclaimed actress, Judith Albano, and Jasmine Ong. They were the founders of the community kitchen, which assisted many people during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Epitome of Time by Nico OsmaColorful Journey by Roen Capule
The proceeds from the artworks will benefit the advocacy efforts of these three organizations: Bayanihang Marikenyo at Marikenya for community kitchen and livelihood programs, The Community Kitchen Project for nationwide disaster response, and a community-based art school for kids.
“Sa akin napaka-deep ng story ng [Project] Hulmahan. We want to give dignity back to the community; we consider them as partners in our community-based projects and not beggars. We may not be popular, but we want to be transparent and accountable. [Project] Hulmahan is about molding a person and molding a society. The success of this project will depend on working together and pooling resources so we can ensure that those in need have access to necessities during these challenging times,” says Bernardo.
Arcanum Artificium XB23-J1 and XB23-J1 by Buds ConvocarA Pixie’s Right Foot Forward & A Dreamer’s Right Foot Forward by Imelda Cajipe-Endaya
Project Hulmahan is on display at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby and Art Gallery until May 20, 2023. Admission is free.
To culminate the fundraising endeavor, a grand auction will be held at Centennial Hall of The Manila Hotel on May 21 from 6PM to 11PM. This is by invitation only.
Exciting activities and exclusive bundles await LEGO® collectors and brick builders on May 18 as the LEGO Group hosts its biggest sale event this year – its third LazMall Super Brand Day!
This year’s concept stems from their vision in which builders of all ages can freely express their limitless creativity. The brand firmly believes that if one can dream it, then they can build it! With numerous LEGO sets, anyone can unlock the endless possibilities of what makes a dream car their dream car – by dreaming bigger and building better.
As part of its campaign, the LEGO Group is teaming up with the Universal Group to include themes and LEGO sets from the iconic Fast & Furious movie franchise.
The collaboration features a series of unique Fast & Furious-themed activations, including free same-day delivery with the ‘Fast & Furious X-Perience’ exclusive LEGO Fast & Furious starter kits, and flash sales up to 60% off! By placing a 60% down payment during the pre-sale event from May 11 to 17, you can secure exclusive prices on purchases. In addition to this, they can also participate in engaging activities both on-ground and online:
DREAM IT, BUILD IT! PLAY WORKSHOP
Parents of young builders could learn how to use bricks to help their children develop life-long skills at an exclusive workshop hosted by a play expert. The two-hour coaching session is designed to help parents know how to incorporate play into their daily routines while their children enjoy a fun building session facilitated by Dr. Angel Belle Dy, an early childhood development advocate from Bahay Turo – an online tutoring platform.
The workshop is packed with more surprises as customers can expect storewide discounts and gifts with purchase from the LEGO Group.
DREAM IT, BUILD IT! SOCIAL CONTEST
Alongside the on-ground activations, a social media contest will run until May 18, 2023. LEGO® brick enthusiasts of all ages will be challenged to create their ideal LEGO vehicle using LEGO bricks from any playset. The most creative builds will win LEGO sets up to SRP 7,197 from the Fast & Furious franchise!
For the full mechanics, visit Ban Kee Brick’s official Facebook and Instagram pages. Winners will be announced on June 15, 2023.
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About the LEGO Group
The LEGO Group’s mission is to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through the power of play. The LEGO System in Play, with its foundation in LEGO bricks, allows children and fans to build and rebuild anything they can imagine.
The LEGO Group was founded in Billund, Denmark in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, its name derived from the two Danish words LEg Godt, which mean “Play Well.” Today, the LEGO Group remains a family- owned company headquartered in Billund. However, its products are now sold in more than 130 countries worldwide.
For more news from the LEGO Group, information about our financial performance and responsibility engagement, please visit www.LEGO.com/aboutus.
Get ready to experience the ultimate summer music getaway as Megaworld Lifestyle Malls kicks off the Summer Good Times Music Fest, a series of free concerts featuring local bands and artists!
Summer Good Times Music Fest is happening all month of May, taking place across five lifestyle malls: Uptown Bonifacio and Venice Grand Canal in Taguig, Eastwood City in Quezon City, Lucky Chinatown in Manila, and Alabang West Parade in Las Piñas.
With a lineup of top-tier artists – Zild, Paolo Sandejas, Lola Amour, Dilaw, and more – this festival is sure to be an unforgettable summer adventure that you wouldn’t want to miss.
Celebrate the sunny season with non-stop beats, captivating performances, and unforgettable moments with friends and loved ones. Check out the schedules below and mark your calendars for the hottest concerts of the summer!
May 5 – 5PM at Eastwood City
Paolo Sandejas
May 6 – 7PM at Uptown Bonifacio
Zild
The Good Time
Raven
May 6 – 4:30PM at Lucky Chinatown
Paolo Sandejas
May 7 – 7PM at Venice Grand Canal
Cian Ducrot
May 7 – 6PM at Alabang West Parade
Paolo Sandejas
May 12 – 6PM at Venice Grand Canal
Paolo Sandejas
Tala
Will Mikhael
May 13 – 7PM at Uptown Bonifacio
Lola Amour
Sugarcane
May 27 – 6PM at Venice Grand Canal
JikaMarie
JRLDM
PLAYERTWO
Dilaw
For more information, visit Megaworld Lifestyle Malls’ official Facebook and Instagram pages. You may also log on to megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call (63 2) 8-462-8888.
After its successful metamorphosis on its recently concluded 38th concert season, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra turns gold.
Established in 1973, the country’s leading orchestra looks back at its humble beginnings through its PPO 50th ANNIVERSARY GALA, slated on May 12, 8pm, at the Metropolitan Theater, the temporary home of the PPO while the CCP Main Building is undergoing rehabilitation.
For this milestone, the CCP resident orchestra recreates in part its very first concert, which happened on May 15, 1973. That debut concert of the orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Luis C. Valencia, its first music director, with Julian Quirit as concertmaster.
In the 1973 concert, the PPO performed Alfredo S. Buenaventura’s Bathaluman and National Artist Lucrecia Kasilag’s Divertissement for Piano and Orchestra. The late National Artist was the president and artistic director of the center back then.
Made possible through the auspices of the former First Lady Imelda R. Marcos, the concert also featured Manuel de Falla’s Noches en los Jardines de España and G. Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, with guest performer pianist Benjamin Tupas.
Initially intended to accompany performing artists at the CCP Theater when the orchestra was founded in 1973, the PPO had been reorganized in 1979, with Prof. Oscar C. Yatco at the helm. Three years later, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra was born with a new vision – to be ranked among the best in the world. From then on, the PPO has grown to become the country’s leading orchestra.
Under the baton of Maestro Rodel Colmenar, the PPO will once again relive the first concert, performing Buenaventura and Kasilag masterpieces, with young pianist Aidan Ezra Baracol as guest performer.
Known as the founder and music director of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), Rodel Colmenar has further proven his great skills and passion for music on international platforms and has collaborated with several outstanding local and foreign classical artists. As a conductor, he is significantly involved in the Kurt Masur Conducting Workshop in Detmold, Germany, and in the masterclasses of French conductor Jean Sebastian Bereau and Italian conductor Pierro Gamba.
Young virtuoso Baracol is currently a Grade 12 scholar at the Philippine High School for the Arts. He has won 16 local and international piano competitions over the last three years, notably the Junior Piano category of the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA). He is currently a scholar of the CCP.
Critically-acclaimed Filipino tenor Arthur Espiritu will perform Salut! Demeure e Chaste et Pure! from Faust (Charles Gounod), Che gelida manina from La Boheme (Giacomo Puccini), and Kundiman ng Langit (Augusto Espino).
Renowned for his impressive vocals and great presence on stage, Espiritu has performed in various operas, concerts, and recitals across the United States and other countries, showcasing his versatility and range as a performer. He has performed in the CCP opera production of Lucia di Lammermoor in 2020.
The anniversary concert will culminate with a must-watch performance of renowned pianist Dr. Raul Sunico, playing G. Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue under the baton of PPO resident conductor Herminigildo Ranera.
A former CCP president, Sunico has brought home several awards in piano competitions held abroad including a silver medal in the 1979 Viotti International Piano Competition in Vercelli, Italy. He has also given solo recitals in Canada, Mexico, France, the United States, and Australia, among other countries. The Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines Awardee for Music in 1986, he has recorded around 50 compact discs, including his piano transcriptions of Filipino folk songs and kundimans, concertos by Grieg, Saint-Saens, Ravel, and Lucino Sacramento; solo classical pieces; popular American songs set to piano; chamber and duo piano music, and original compositions.
A multi-awarded performer, Ranera was a three-time prize winner of the NAMCYA in 1982 and 1983 as a performer in Trombone, Baritone, and Tuba (Chamber Music) categories. He was a prize-winner of the 1983 League of Filipino Composers Competition for Young Composers and collaborated with his mentor, Fr. Manuel P. Maramba, O.S.B. for various CCP productions. Ranera is the founder of the Philippine Band Association (PHILBANDA), a board member of the Asia-Pacific Band Directors Association, and the adviser of the Band Conductors League of the Philippines.
Coinciding with the gala concert, the CCP and PPO partnered with Widescope Entertainment to launch “Serenata,” the seven-track album consisting of well-loved Philippine folk songs and melodies from various regions of the country, on Spotify.
Originally released in 2014, the album includes: Atin Cu Pung Singsing (Kapampangan), Sarung Banggi (Bicolano), Ti Ayat Ti Maysa Nga Ubing (Ilocano), Sampaguita (Original Spanish “La Flor de Manila”), Malinac lay labi (Pangasinense), No Te Vayas De Zamboanga (Chavacano), and Walay Angay (Ilonggo).
National Artist Ryan Cayabyab gave a fresh interpretation to the seven well-loved folk songs, without compromising their traditional musical characteristics and making them multi-layered compositions.
The decision to release Serenata in Spotify is in line with the CCP’s continuous efforts to awaken the consciousness of Filipinos to Philippine cultural heritage, and encourage the development and enhance public interest and appreciation of arts in various fields.
Tickets to the PPO 50th Anniversary Concert are available at the CCP Box Office, located at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, Vicente Sotto Street, from Tuesday to Friday, from 9a.m. to 6pm. You can also get tickets at the TicketWorld via www.ticketworld.com.ph. Ticket prices are: Php 3,000.00 (Loge Premium and Orchestra Center Premium), Php 1,500.00 (Orchestra Left and Right), and Php 800.00 (Balcony Center, Right, and Left).
For other ticket details and inquiries, contact the CCP Marketing Department at salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph. Visit the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph. Follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates.
Ready your energy as we move to a more nostalgic vibe and a more vantage-point venue for the upcoming Dream Theater concert.
In an announcement made by Ovation Productions on April 29, 2023, on their social media accounts, Dream Theater’s upcoming Manila concert will now be moved to the New Frontier Theater. The concert is happening on May 4, 2023, and it will be a more exclusive experience for all the DT fans as they celebrate their reunion up-close with the band.
The Grammy-winning progressive metal band composed of James LaBrie, John Petrucci, Jordan Rudess, John Myung, and Mike Mangini were very excited to perform live again in the Philippines for the second time.
The New Frontier Theater is a very sentimental place to both Dream Theater and their fans, as they were able to have their first-ever intimate rock-and-roll night together in the venue last September 25, 2017, during their concert tour. The tour was part of the 25th-anniversary celebration of their 1992 studio album “Images and Words”.
Now, they are returning to the country for their “Top of the World Tour” to treat their fans as they perform the songs live from their new album “A View From The Top Of The World.” The tracks included in the album are: The Alien (9:32), Answering The Call (7:35), Invisible Monster (6:31), Sleeping Giant (10:05), Transcending Time (6:25), Awaken The Master (9:47), and A View From The Top Of The World (20:24).
Meanwhile, for fans who purchased for Smart Araneta Coliseum, tickets will be assigned with equivalent seats at the New Frontier Theater.
For the fans who purchased online, your Smart Araneta Coliseum ticket will be voided and a new electronic ticket for the New Frontier show will be emailed to you starting May 1, 2023.
And, for those fans who bought thru Box Office and Outlet/s, your Smart Araneta ticket must be surrendered at the Ticketnet Box Office starting May 1, 2023 and your new tickets will be issued in exchange. Ticketnet Box Office is open daily from 10am to 8pm, including weekends.
The band promises to give their fans the same joy and energy, as they showcase their riffs and chops similar to their first Manila Concert.
Tickets are still available at ticketnet.com.ph. Tickets are priced at PHP 2,750 (lower box), PHP 4,750 (patron C), PHP 5,750 (patron B), PHP 6,750 (patron A), and PHP 7,250 (VIP).
Another good news for all the fans and ticket holders. Ovation Productions and the official media partner, Tap Go TV, are giving away Dream Theater concert tickets. Visit their official Facebook pages to see the full giveaway promo mechanics.
The world’s biggest basketball tournament is about to unfold in Manila at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, with basketball legend Luis Scola gracing the much-anticipated draw with performances by American rapper Saweetie, Sarah Geronimo, and Billy Crawford this Saturday, April 29 at the Smart Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City.
Scola has won multiple medals as a member of the national men’s basketball team of Argentina. He played for Argentina’s national squad from 2001 until 2019, winning two silver medals at the FIBA World Championships, one each in 2002 and during his final tournament in 2019 at the age of 39. During the 2015 FIBA Americas Championship tournament, Scola became the all-time leading scorer in FIBA AmeriCup history and won his 4th tournament MVP.
On the live performance side, Saweetie is an American rapper who made a name for herself by rhyming over iconic tracks, giving a nod to those who came before while building her own catalog of fiery hits such as “My Type,” “Tap In,” and “Best Friend,” a collaboration with Doja Cat.
Meanwhile pop superstars Sarah Geronimo and Billy Crawford are expected to represent the Filipino side at the international event happening on Saturday, 7:30 at the Big Dome.
Ranked #40 in the world, the Philippines has gained an outright berth in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup Games by being one of the host nations alongside Japan and Indonesia. This is the sixth time that the Philippines is playing on the world stage, and its second time as host nation following its hosting in 1978 where it finished in the top eight.
As a FIBA global partner, Smart is going all-out for the FIBAWC 2023 Draw Event as anticipation reaches a new high with all the 32 qualified nations receiving their country assignments during the spectacle. This year’s much-anticipated FIBA draw will finally announce the matchups and finalize which countries will be playing in the Philippines, giving Pinoy basketball fans time to plan which games and basketball greats they wish to see live in action.
Catch Ben&Ben live and win prizes from Smart at ‘FIBA in Manila’ in BGC
Basketball fans can also join the all-day festival party, “FIBA in Manila,” at BGC Uptown area, corner of 9th Avenue and 36th Street in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) from 10 am onwards, also on April 29.
Ben&Ben’s performance at the “FIBA in Manila” will be streamed live via Smart’s official Facebook page at 2pm.
Never miss a moment with the Smart LiveStream App
Smart subscribers can get hyped with non-stop FIBA basketball action by catching all the exciting happenings and the games, including those played in the previous windows, via the Smart Livestream App.
Using the app, fans can catch every minute of live basketball action at the 2023 FIBAWC from Aug. 25 to Sept. 10.
The Smart LiveStream app is downloadable on the App Store and the Google Play Store, and subscribers will only need to enter a valid Smart Prepaid or Postpaid mobile number to enjoy all the sports action.
A Colorful Comeback: “RED” by John Logan Returns to Manila
The Necessary Theatre’s critically acclaimed and award-winning production of RED by John Logan is making a triumphant return to Manila this June 2023, a decade after its celebrated 2013 run.
A Bold Reimagining with Seasoned Stars
Helmed once again by Bart Guingona as both director and actor, the limited 10-show run from June 9 to 18, RED will take place at the PETA Theater Center, featuring the talents of some of the industry’s most promising theater designers. This production serves as a milestone for Bart Guingona, marking his 40th year in the entertainment industry as he reprises the iconic role of Mark Rothko. Joining him is award-winning theater, TV, and film actor JC Santos, who makes his long-awaited return to the stage as Ken after a three-year absence.
The Perfect Play for a Post-Pandemic Revival
As the artistic director of The Necessary Theatre, Guingona believes RED is the ideal choice for the company’s comeback following the pandemic hiatus. The 90-minute drama is an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of art and the challenges of its creation. With Rothko’s opening question, “What do you see?”, this restaging invites audiences to examine the play even more closely.
A Talented Team of Designers
The production boasts a stellar artistic team, including award-winning film and stage composer Teresa Barrozo handling sound design. Up-and-coming designers Gabo Tolentino and Mark Daniel Dalacat round out the team, with Tolentino taking charge of lighting design and Dalacat serving as the assistant director and production designer.
RED will run on June 9 and 16 at 8:00 PM, and June 10, 11, 17, and 18 at 3:30 PM and 8:00 PM at the PETA Theatre Center. For show buying inquiries, contact Ivy Baggao through mobile at 0915-467-6774, email or visit Ticket2me. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness Bart Guingona and JC Santos together on stage in this powerful production of RED.
The popular British–Norwegian boy band A1 is set to make a comeback here in Manila this October 2023, just in time to celebrate their 25th anniversary in the music industry. This is a highly anticipated event for their Filipino fans who have been waiting for the group’s return to the Philippines after their successful concert in 2018. Thus, their upcoming tour is aptly called TWENTY FIVE.
A1 has been back to their original line-up, which consists of Paul Marazzi, Christian Ingebrigtsen, Mark Read and Ben Adams, since Paul re-joined the group in 2018 for their 20th Anniversary Reunion Tour, now 5 years on the band return to celebrate their musical milestone.
The concert, which will be held at the New Frontier Theater, Araneta Center, Quezon City, promises to be a night of pure nostalgia and great music for A1 fans. Performing their classic hits from their impressive discography including Like a Rose, Everytime, Same Old Brand New You & Caught in the Middle to name but a few that Filipinos learned to love over the years. Likewise, the group feels ecstatic to perform here in Manila once again.
“We’re so grateful to our Filipino fans who have supported us throughout the years,” says Mark. “It’s been 25 years since we started as a group, and we’re so excited to be able to celebrate this landmark anniversary with our Filipino fans,”he shares.
Back in 2020, A1 got a fantastic reaction when Ben performed a duet of “Like a Rose” with popular OPM star Morissette as an online performance during lockdown.
A1 toured Denmark in 2021 & Sweden in 2022. In September 2022 they commenced a headline tour of the UK, where they performed songs from their forthcoming album, although original dates were moved due to pandemic closures and then the Queen’s passing during the tour.
Presented by Concert Republic. A1: TWENTY FIVE – MANILA will be held at New Frontier Theater on Saturday 14th October 2023 (8PM).
Tickets will go on sale starting Friday, 28th April 2023 at 12 noon, available at all TicketNet outlets or log on to Ticketnet.com.ph or call (02) 911-5555 for more details.
For more concert updates, check out A1’s Facebook page /a1official or follow Concert Republic’s website www.concertrepublic.com or /@concertrepublic on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
RE-introducing Bayang Barrios, the Katutubong D.I.V.A. — Driven, Inspired, Victorious, and Authentic — through her first solo concert at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez (Black Box Theater) on May 6, 2023 at 7:30pm.
Joining Bayang on stage will be legends Joey Ayala, Gary Granada, Lolita Carbon, Cooky Chua and Poppert Bernadas, friends and collaborators over three decades in show business. The anniversary concert, BAYANG BARRIOS Katutubong DIVA, will be directed by Floy Quintos.
Bayang Barrios is the exquisite voice on the songs “Malayo Man, Malapit din,” “Bagong Umaga,” “Pag Nanalo ang Ginebra,” and Encantadia’s theme song. Bayang is a multi-awarded singer and songwriter who’s been in the industry for 35 years. She’s also a teacher, mother, theater artist, designer, and peace advocate. She has a band named Naliyagan, and is married to another award-winning musician-producer, Mike Villegas.
She is a proud Manobo from Agusan del Sur, but she once downplayed her ethnic origins.
She had in fact turned her back on her indigenous roots after the trauma of discrimination in childhood. She studied hard, became a teacher, and rarely mentioned her native background.
Then in Davao, she met a songwriter and performer who celebrated native cultures in his music – Joey Ayala.
She joined Ayala’s iconic band Ang Bagong Lumad, which pioneered in giving native themes and music a contemporary beat and vibe. For nearly 20 years, they traveled the country and the world introducing indigenous music, instruments, and dance to mainstream audiences, especially youths hungry for a deeper connection to their Filipino identity.
When Bayang went solo, she continued her journey of celebrating her native origins, and began a chapter in her life of standing up for indigenous rights and other causes close to her heart.
Looking back on a storied career, she says her proudest moments were winning the Metropop Music Festival in 2003 for her song “Malayo Man, Malapit Din” and receiving the Lorenzo Ruiz Award for Music by the Catholic Mass Media Awards in 1997, where she was personally awarded by the late Cardinal Jaime Sin for her song “Bayang Makulay.”
The widespread awareness and acceptance today of indigenous cultures can be credited partly to the courageous efforts of artists like Bayang, who have sought to make native roots a badge of honor.
Her upcoming concert Katutubong DIVA is her first as a solo artist, but only the latest version of Bayang Barrios as an influencer of pop culture and avatar of native pride.
Produced by Manila Media Inc, Bayang Barrios: Katutubong DIVA will be held at the CCP Black Box Theater on May 6.
Tickets are available at TicketWorld. For other inquiries, please contact Manila Media Inc at +632-83511483 or +63977-1154586.
