Darren Espanto leads benefit concert for families affected by Mindanao quake

MANILA, Philippines — Original Pilipino Music (OPM) artists John Roa, Kakie, Over October and Darren Espanto headline “One Heart, One Cause,” a benefit concert for families affected by the Mindanao earthquake happening today, July 9 at the Music Museum.

Mounted by Manila Genesis Entertainment & Management Inc., in cooperation with Soundcheck, the concert proves that music has the power to inspire, unite, and give hope when communities need it most.

Leading the guest performers is John Roa, whose latest release “Tayo Nalang Ulit” is sure to be another hit recording for a catalogue that has over 150 million streams online.

Joining him is Kakie, also known as Frankie Pangilinan, the talented singer-songwriter admired for her refreshing honesty, lyrical storytelling, especially in her release “Romeo.”

Completing the guest lineup is acclaimed indie-pop band Over October, whose iconic hit song “Ikot” has hit 211 million streams on Spotify.

Also joining the special fundraising concert is multi-awarded singer-performer Darren, one of the country’s most celebrated young singers, whose remarkable stage presence and powerhouse performances continue to captivate audiences across generations.

Sharing the stage with them is the growing family of Genesis artists, showcasing the next generation of Filipino musical talent.

Among them is ONErpm’s new artist Elijah, whose emotional ballad “Huling Pakiusap” is slowly climbing the charts as his previous compositions have done.

Also performing is singer-songwriter Kai Buizon, who has just released “Still Missing” under Sony Music.

Adding more energy to the evening is SB19’s choreographer, newly launched 1Z Entertainment artist J2X, whose tracks “Ako Nga Pala Si” and “Wsewuo” were recently released, as well as autism advocate and worship singer Kate Torres.

Completing the lineup are Reverb Worship artists Hazel Faith and EJ De Perio, and Neo Rivera who have new inspirational songs to offer their fans.

Hosted by Miss Quezon City 2024 and Miss Universe Philippines Top 30 finalist Cam Lagmay-Newsome, together with Miss Earth 2017 Karen Ibasco, “One Heart, One Cause” is more than just a concert — it is an invitation for Filipinos to stand together, proving that every ticket purchased and every donation given becomes another act of compassion for fellow countrymen rebuilding their lives after tragedy.

Guiding the concert’s creative vision is award-winning director Paolo Valenciano, who serves as creative director and consultant, bringing together music, storytelling, and purpose to create an inspiring evening for the benefit of Mindanao’s earthquake-hit communities.

As Manila Genesis celebrates four decades of championing Filipino music and entertainment, it also reaffirms that its greatest legacy is not only producing memorable performances — but also bringing people together when hope matters most.

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