Gritty, grounded, and pulsating with energy—these words best capture the spirit of the recent People Power 40 Kick-Off Concert, an event that seamlessly bridged generations while staying firmly anchored in the country’s socio-political reality.
With its bold, innovative, and inclusive staging, observers hailed the concert as a fresh and memorable way to launch the commemoration of EDSA People Power I. Organizers — Mayors for Good Governance (M4GG), Kaya Natin!, Bam Aquino, and Joy Belmonte — were widely commended for mounting a concert that was as socially conscious as it was electrifying.
The program showcased a dynamic blend of singers, rock bands, rappers, stand-up comedians, and dance groups, uniting audiences across generations. More than entertainment, the performances delivered a resonant call against corruption while underscoring the country’s sovereignty.
The evening opened on a solemn note as acoustic icon Ice Seguerra delivered a moving rendition of Bayan Ko, set against a dramatic light show illuminating the Quezon Memorial Circle pylon. The emotional performance set the tone before the concert erupted into high-energy numbers that kept the 20,000-strong crowd on its feet, evoking memories of the 2022 presidential campaign of former Vice President and now Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo.
Reviving the legacy of the late “King of Rap,” Francis Magalona, siblings Elmo Magalona and Arkin Magalona performed some of his most iconic hits, including “1-800-Ninety-Six,” “Kaleidoscope World,” and the crowd-favorite “Ito Ang Gusto Ko.”
Hip-hop collective Morobeats delivered a fiery, expletive-laden set that energized the crowd while boldly calling out government corruption and China’s harassment of Filipino vessels in the West Philippine Sea.
The lineup also spanned generations and genres, with stirring performances from Ebe Dancel, Over October, Earl Agustin, and Rivermaya — creating a shared musical experience that resonated with Filipinos of all ages.
Singer-songwriter Nica Del Rosario, composer of the 2022 campaign anthem Rosas, impressed with her performance of “Tala” and her powerful duet “Kapangyarihan” with rapper Pio Balbuena. Balbuena further electrified the crowd with standout hits such as “44 Bars,” “Republika ng Tambay,” and “Akinse.”
Adding flair and representation, Femme MNL captivated audiences with a high-energy playback set featuring hits by Rihanna, while rock act Chelsea Alley unleashed their signature heavy sound through powerful tracks “We Are,” “Camouflage,” and “Heneral.”
OPM icons Janno Gibbs and Ogie Alcasid delivered a nostalgic yet electrifying set, performing “Pinakamagandang Lalaki” and a rousing duet of “Handog ng Pilipino,” followed by Alcasid’s solo hits “Sige Laglagan Na” and “Nandito Ako.”
Between musical acts, comedians Alex Calleja and Red Ollero had the audience roaring with laughter through sharp, uncensored takes on current controversies and everyday Filipino life.
Closing the night, the Magalona siblings reprised their rousing performance of “Ito Ang Gusto Ko,” transforming it into a stirring call to action for present and future generations. A spectacular 10-minute fireworks display capped the celebration, leaving the crowd energized and reflective long after the final note.
Following its successful staging, observers say the concert offered a powerful, modern way to honor EDSA People Power I — blending nostalgia with fearless calls for accountability and reaffirming the enduring spirit of people power as the nation marks the 40th anniversary of the historic movement.
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