Written by Chris Legaspi
Nineteen years, one month, two weeks, one day. That is how long it has been since I had to leave my country the Philippines, my home, my childhood. Being away for almost half my life tends to make me forget certain Filipino experiences that I truly appreciate, especially when they were still easily accessible to me. The halo-halo that is okay to have all year round given the eternal summer climate. The subtle duet that you do with Mamang Taho when he comes around. “Taho! Taho kayo dyan!” In response you’d say with an unconscious smile on your face, “Kuya, pabili po ng taho!” And of course the jeepneys and tricycles that are more of a tourist attraction for my daughter having been raised in another country, but have been in the service of the Filipinos way before I can remember. The list goes on.
Image: Chris is based in Tokyo, Japan with her lovely daughter, Lizzy.
Listening to Abby Asistio‘s newly released rendition of the classic song Manila, originally by Hotdog and written by Rene Garcia and Denise Garcia, triggers not just these memories but the emotions that go with them. The lullaby twist that she added to it perfectly interprets what Filipinos abroad may be yearning for. More than the halo-halos, tahos and jeepneys, it is the sense of belonging and being “home.”
Image: The music video launch will be held on July 10, Sunday, 6pm at Café Lupe Antipolo with guest artists, Aia de Leon and Acel.
On July 10, Sunday, you can have that taste of home through her music as she releases the music video of Manila at Cafe Lupe Antipolo. She will be performing her original songs alongside friends, singer songwriters and hitmakers, Aia de Leon and Acel (former lead singers of Imago and Moonstar88 respectively). The music video will premiere that same day on her YouTube channel @AbbyAsistio at 8pm.
Image: MANILA by Abby Asistio is out on Spotify, Apple Music and all digital stores worldwide.
Regardless if you are in the Philippines or far away from Manila like me, let her sentimental rendition of the song remind you of how comforting and beautiful home feels like. Listen to it on Spotify, Apple Music and all digital stores worldwide.
