VIBE once again proved why it remains a strong force in celebrating Original Pilipino Music (OPM), as last Sunday’s episode delivered a truly “BONGGA” experience filled with fresh hits, timeless classics, and meaningful moments for artists and viewers alike.
The show opened with an electrifying production featuring the VIBE Jocks and Gen V performers, joined by a special guest appearance from rising P-POP girl group CALISTA. The group performed a medley that included “Porque,” Hotdog’s iconic “Bongga Ka Day,” and “Da Coconut Nut.”
The opening number highlighted how classic OPM songs continue to resonate across generations, proving that even with reimagined versions, the original feel remains unmatched.
Ahead of the main segments, VIBE proudly announced its nominations at the Laurus Nobilis Media Excellence Awards, earning recognition in the Media Excellence in Variety Show category. Two of its hosts, Ana Ramsey and Joao Constancia, were also nominated for Media Excellence in Variety Show Hosting. Both expressed their gratitude for the recognition and support.
CALISTA later shared the pressure they felt in covering Hotdog’s classic hit “Bongga Ka Day,” emphasizing its lasting impact.
“Kasi alam naman nating lahat na sobrang iconic talaga ng song na ito hanggang ngayon, pinapatugtug pa rin siya and included kasi ito sa amin na FOUR which represent us as 4 (members),” the group shared.
The show’s much-loved OG segments featured legendary acts, starting with Smokey Mountain’s Geneva Cruz and Jeffrey Hidalgo, who performed “Kailan” and “Da Coconut Nut.” Reflecting on the enduring relevance of OPM, the two shared heartfelt messages.
“Ang masasbi ko lang, I love the coconut. Syempre natutuwa kami ang daming artist until now, kaya nga nakikila ang mga songs ng bagong generation,” Jeffrey said.
Geneva added, “Maraming Salamat po sa pagsuporta sa Original Pilipino Music at sa amin pong tatay-tatayan ng ating National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, we love you.”
Another OG highlight came from classic OPM band Maria Cafra, who performed “Kamusta, Mga Kaibigan.”
The band thanked supporters and encouraged aspiring artists, saying,
“’Wag kayong magsawa lumikha ng sarili niyong tunog. Tangkilikin ang sariling atin.”
Giving space to emerging talent, VIBE’s UPRISING segment named Paul Arcega as the Top Uprising Star of the Week.
He performed “Para Saan?” after earning 22.63% of the votes and expressed gratitude to his family, relatives, and churchmates for their overwhelming support.
The MAIN VIBE segment featured powerful performances from today’s OPM hitmakers. Illest Morena debuted on the VIBE stage with “Faded (Raw),” ranking fourth, and shared an empowering message:
“Stay in school. Periodt. Kahit ano pang gusto mong i-pursue na craft, just never ever let it stop you from having fun and pursuing the art that you really want to do in this world.”
At third place, Angela Ken performed “Pwede Bang Mamaya,” expressing her constant gratitude for listener support.
“Ako naman, lagi akong grateful sa bawat song hindi pa released o nareleased na, as long as naappreciate ng mga vhies at mga Angels, yun lang yung lagi kong reminder sa sarili ko na, isa sa mga reasons why I still keep on making music it is because of support and love na narerecieve ko.”
Meanwhile, JAO ranked second with “Torpe,” sharing that the song was inspired by someone he liked back in 2023 and expressing happiness at finally being on the VIBE stage.
The night concluded with a powerful finale from OPM icon Noel Cabangon, who performed “Kanlungan” and the enduring protest anthem in with his Buklod bandmates Rom Dongeto and Rene Boncocan.
The group shared that they would never change “Tatsulok,” as its message remains relevant today. Before the performance, Noel expressed gratitude that “Kanlungan” continues to resonate across generations.
With its dynamic mix of legends, rising stars, and meaningful storytelling, last Sunday’s VIBE delivered a powerful celebration of Filipino music—keeping the OPM revolution alive and thriving.
Key reminders:
- Voting for MAIN VIBE and UPRISING is open until Friday, January 30, 11:59 AM
- Spotify Tatak Pinoy LIVE winner announcement: February 1
VIBE airs daily on TV5, One PH, 105.9 True FM, True TV, Kapatid Channel, and online via TV5’s Kapatid Livestream, as well as VIBE’s YouTube and Facebook pages.
Follow @VIBEPH.TV for more OPM updates.
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