THE impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is felt all over the world, but the challenges that come with it are even more daunting for those who belong to the poorest sectors of the community. In the Philippines, a weakened economy and the fear of contracting a viral disease add to the burden of the less fortunate, who have already been struggling to make ends meet each day. Now, more than ever, the need to come together in the spirit of “bayanihan” is crucial to support poverty-stricken Filipinos.
Gawad Kalinga (GK) USA will lead the charge through riSING Together, a virtual celebration of hope through music, in partnership with world-class Filipino talents who are lending their voices to inspire, encourage, and move people during this most precious season of giving. The event is headlined by National Artist for Music Maestro Ryan Cayabyab together with the Ryan Cayabyab Singers. Sharing the stage are seasoned multi-hyphenate performer Gary Valenciano, online sensation and Filipino American artist AJ Rafael, and singer-songwriter Kiana Valenciano.
“I have been in close coordination with GK since the first year of inception of the Ryan Cayabyab Singers as a powerhouse singing group and it has been some years since we did a project with GK. This is a most opportune time to collaborate again with an organization I believe in,” shares Mr. Cayabyab, fondly known as Mr. C. “I look forward to working with three exciting artists in Gary V, Kiana, and AJ, and I can’t wait to showcase the Filipino’s excellence in music creativity and artistry!”
AJ chimes in, “When GK approached me to ask if I can be a part of the concert, it was automatic.”
“If there is any opportunity to help or do a concert, as long as I’m free, I’ll be there. That is the impact that GK has on me. I’m excited to be part of this and working with Mr. Ryan Cayabyab. It still doesn’t feel real – I wouldn’t believe it until I watch him singing along to one of my songs on video,” adds the popular YouTube artist.
riSING Together is presented by Seafood City and The Filipino School, and sponsored by MVMi, Pray.com, Shining Light Foundation, Tagline 360, Skills Simplified, Assistantly.com, Pinoy Monthly, and Asian Journal. The event is powered by VEAP (Virtual Events and Activations Platform), and will be streamed online on December 11, 4 PM PST/6 PM CST/ 7 PM EST in the US, and on December 12, 8 AM in the Philippines. Registration is free, but donations towards GK’s various efforts to help poor and vulnerable families are most welcome.
Be part of GK USA’s riSING Together concert and spread love and hope through the power of song. Please visit www.gk-usa.org to register for the event.
