Behind the Spotlight: Generation Y Manila Ended the Night with a Bang
Behind the Spotlight: Generation Y Manila Ended the Night with a Bang
When In Manila became a part of history last March 29, 2014 when Generation Y Manila ignited the spark that started it all, or at least according to my slightly biased opinion. It was biased because I was one of the performers who got a glimpse of the glitz, the glamour and the rocky boat ride heading there.
It wasn’t all fun. A charity event is not an easy thing to pull off, after all. Even Allie Gagalang, the overall organizer, wrote, “We honestly didn’t expect there were going to be a lot of people watching.” But there were, and I can honestly say that it was a success.
It was a scary experience, though. Scary in a way that you check the front desk every 5 minutes just to know if we’re making progress or if there’s anyone buying a ticket at all. I mean, it was a charity event for the children of the SOS Children’s Villages Philippines and I couldn’t bear the thought of possibly disappointing them.
Allie, John, Pat and Christian were discussing some serious stuff at the Front Desk of RJ Bistro where the event was being held.
I’ve met these people. They may be kids, but they are far more superior and intelligent. At such a young age, they’ve been through a lot and yet, they thrived. I will never forget their faces. Catherine, EJ, Emman, Jocelyn, Jonathan, Justin, Joanna, Jons, Cedric, Arnold, and Maggie are just one of the few who will benefit from the funds raised in the event.
During our visit at one of the branches of SOS Children’s Villages
So, when the big day finally arrived, I was 100% certain that we were all a nervous wreck. It was 5:00 pm and there wasn’t even a single table occupied. My heart was pounding in my chest as if it was about to explode. I started to lose hope.
The “Musician’s Corner” or what we call the “VIP Room”
But somehow, being around people who share the same interests that you do can put you at ease. So, thank you, Niki, for the lovely songs you were so willing to sing to us; Liam and Hans for starting a quick jamming session; Robert for teaching us a thing or two about beat boxing; Jasper for a quick pentatonic scale demo; and Mike for providing the lyrics of the song whenever we happen to just forget about it. Add up the fact that Protege Jensen Kyra Tenoso was there to give us a mind-blowing performance. Everyone was in pure awe.
Protege Jensen Kyra Tenoso during her performance
After that, everything went by in a blur as if it was a beautiful dream with the most colorful lights and remarkable talents. It was a spectacle. Christian Reasonda, the project head, tweeted “Medyo nakakaiyak. Ang daming pumunta. And I saw the smile on the kids’ faces – really priceless.”
Jensen and Christian with some of the children of SOS Children’s Villages Philippines
Truly, it was a collection of incredible talents brought together by amazing individuals with one specific goal: to help. Take note that all these were accomplished by two young, talented 19-year-olds who are crazy enough to dream big and make the magic happen.
Christian and Allie with the host Ysa, Tata and Pria
So the next time you’re looking for the best gig in the Metro, look hard. You could be helping out while having a good time. After all, there’s always magic When In Manila.
Generation Y
Generation Y Manila Facebook Page
