Celebrities unite for humanitarian mission at Alay Kapwa’s benefit concert

July 10 ------ Music, faith, and compassion came together on one stage as some of the country’s well-loved celebrities headlined a benefit concert in support of Alay Kapwa, the long-running Lenten solidarity program of the Catholic Church dedicated to helping the poor and marginalized.

Held on Tuesday, July 8, at Araneta Coliseum, the Alay Kapwa 50th anniversary benefit concert drew crowds, singers, and performers united to raise funds and awareness for the Church’s humanitarian efforts. Hosted by Gretchen Ho, Robi Domingo, Bianca Gonzalez, and Melai Cantiveros, the event became more than just entertainment; it was also a reminder of collective generosity and social responsibility. The concert opened with an overture from UST Symphony Orchestra and Tiples De Santo Domingo.

Erik Santos then took the stage for his rendition of “Pananagutan,” followed by an opening medley featuring Smokey Mountain members Geneva Cruz and Jeffrey Hidalgo, who performed “Paraiso” and “Better World.” The medley was made more heartrending with a performance of “Masdan Mo Ang Mga Bata” from Tres Marias’ Lolita Carbon, Bayang Barrios, and Cooky Chua. “Pinoy Big Brother” Gen 11 stars Kai Montinola and Jarren Garcia then delighted the crowd with their rendition of “Hawak Kamay.”

The program also included a tribute to Pope Francis and other heartfelt performances from Darren Espanto, who performed “Tell the World of His Love,” Kuh Ledesma, who sang “Noong Unang Panahon,” and AC Bonifacio, who led a group of dancers in a performance of “Mga Kababayan Ko.”

Alay Kapwa ambassadors-at-large Charo Santos-Concio and Boots Anson Roa-Rodrigo also took the stage to share their messages of hope and compassion. Gabbi Garcia, Khalil Ramos, and Barbie Forteza also made special appearances to highlight the organization’s mission. However, the main highlight of the night was the newest Alay Kapwa ambassadors, Ben&Ben, who delighted the audience with a mini-concert featuring their biggest hits, “Maybe the Night,” “Leaves,” and “Araw-araw,” among others.

Organized by Caritas Philippines in collaboration with sponsors, the concert aimed to support ongoing Alay Kapwa programs that provide food assistance, disaster response, scholarships, and sustainable livelihoods for struggling communities. Alay Kapwa legacy program ambassadors include celebrities Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, Jolina Magdangal-Escueta, Jodi Sta. Maria, Gerald Anderson, Arjo Atayde, Noel Cabangon, and Migs Bugtos.

Source: inquirer.net