We Are the World, but it’s 3,000+ Filipino Kids and Their New Christmas Song

Los Angeles, CA – December 6, 2024 – A Song for the Season – The Apl.de.Ap Foundation International and One Down Media have joined forces to release “It’s That Time of Year,” a heartwarming new Christmas song performed by over 3,000 students from the Sisters of Mary Schools in the Philippines.

Produced by Grammy-winning artists Apl.de.Ap and Keith Harris, alongside multi-platinum songwriter and producer David “DQ” Quinones, songwriter Johnny Black, and recording engineer Edgar “Artek” Sinio, the song is a seamless collaboration between world-class talent and aspiring young voices.

Each stream of the song helps fund housing, meals, and education for children in need. Since Filipinos celebrate Christmas longer than anyone else, this track is designed to become an annual tradition. The masters of the song have been donated to the school, ensuring a sustainable, recurring gift every holiday season.

“Having a song with the potential to return every year is an invaluable asset,” said Audie Vergara, Executive Director of the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International. “This song is positioned to become a timeless tradition, providing both joy and lasting support for the Sisters of Mary Schools.”

Empowering Filipino Youth

The students aren’t just performing; they’re learning about the art of making music. For them, this project is an opportunity to explore alternative ways of building a livelihood, including within the creative economy.

“At the heart of this project are the kids—their talent, their potential, and their future,” said Apl.de.Ap, founder of the foundation. “This song not only captures the spirit of Filipino Christmas but also gives these students a chance to see their creativity recognized on a global stage.”

By involving the students in every step of the production process—from ideation to recording and distribution—APLFI has provided them with invaluable firsthand experience in the modern entertainment industry.

A Unified Global Community
On December 12, 2024, the music video will premiere on One Down’s YouTube channel. It tells the story of a lola (grandmother) rediscovering holiday joy through an unexpected visit from young Filipino children at her doorstep. By blending voices from the Philippines with Filipino American talent, the project connects communities across oceans.

One Down has rallied more than 100 Filipino-owned businesses across North America to support the initiative. Their participation demonstrates the incredible impact of a united global Filipino community.

“This initiative represents the best of what we can do when the global Filipino community comes together: empower the next generation, preserve our traditions, and create sustainable opportunities for those in need,” said Leo Albea, CEO of One Down.

How to Help

“It’s That Time of Year” is now streaming on Spotify and other platforms. By listening to the song, watching the upcoming music video, or donating, you can help strengthen the Sisters of Mary Schools. Donations can be made at www.thesistersofmaryschools.org/donate.

About Apl.de.Ap Foundation International

The Apl.de.Ap Foundation International (APLFI), founded by Grammy-winning artist Apl.de.Ap of The Black Eyed Peas, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization empowering communities through education, technology, and the arts. APLFI creates sustainable opportunities by focusing on workforce development, advanced technology, and global creative industries. Support our mission at www.aplfi.org and weareaplfi on instagram.

About One Down

One Down is a media company dedicated to impactful storytelling that highlights Filipino culture. Known for leveraging cultural narratives to drive viral engagement, One Down partners with global artists and organizations to create transformative projects that inspire communities worldwide. Follow us on social media @onedown.media.

About the Sisters of Mary Schools

For over 30 years, the Sisters of Mary Schools have provided free, high-quality education, housing, and meals to children from impoverished families. Having supported over 60,000 children since their founding, the schools boast an 86% success rate in helping graduates break the cycle of poverty.