Optimism and hope abounded in AdDU’s first-ever online fiesta as various artists and bands, from the safety of their homes, performed in an hour-long fund-raising concert for Balay Pasilungan Foundation, via Facebook Live.

“Himig Bughaw: Concert for a Cause” aims to provide aid for the children in The Balay Pasilungan of the Society of Mary-Marist Fathers and Brothers Foundation. This organization houses young boys to give them a home and a safe environment for protection against exploitation.

Different artists performed in the benefit concert, including 3 AM, Serein, Krey and Luke, Star Search Victors 2017 and 2019, the Ateneo Dance Crew, and the Ateneo Repertory Company.

In partnership with the Arrupe Office of Social Formation (AOSF), the SAMAHAN said that this seeks to maximize the talents and creativity of the students online to further the goals of Ateneo de Davao University, being men and women for others. 

All funds generated from the benefit concert will directly go to Balay Pasilungan Foundation, which was greatly affected by the challenges brought by the pandemic. 

Abigail Monteagudo, Star Search 2019 Victor and a member of the Ateneo Repertory Company (ARC), shared how the concert’s mission aligned with her personal goal as well.

“It’s important for me to help other people [in] any way [that] I can, especially during this pandemic. And this concert which I was given the opportunity to perform in is one way for me to help others,” Monteagudo said. 

“As performers, we aim to boost and uplift people’s spirits through inspirational songs which hopefully will give them hope during these trying and challenging times,” she added.

Vanessa Valmoria, also a member of the ARC, expressed how grateful she is to be an instrument of help to the people around her while being able to share her talents.

“Foundations that help young children have always been close to my heart, and being part of this event is an honor and a blessing. I am happy to share my gift in music and be an instrument of help to the shelter,” Valmoria stated.

Moreover, Ejay Capoy, ARC member, said that the event’s initiative was their way of contributing to those in need despite not being able to leave their homes.

“As someone na part sa event, it is our best way to contribute kahit nasa bahay lang. It enables us to help, and we feel na ang talents namin is used sa right way especially that the concert is a fund raising concert so maka help kami through showcasing what we’ve got,” he shared.

Meanwhile, Paul Ramirez, ARC member, mentioned how challenging it was to pull off a concert when all transactions and adjustments were made online due to the health crisis.

“We really aim to share our best in this concert, bringing the name of the school and ARC. I hope na mag enjoy lahat and sana maka help aming performances sa success ng concert and to uplift people,” Ramirez said.