The Itchyworms to perform in Hong Kong for first time

MANILA, Philippines — OPM band The Itchyworms will bring their "Akin Ka Na Lang" tour to Hong Kong on July 26, marking the group's first performance in the city.

The one-day event will be held at The Wanch in Wan Chai, with two shows scheduled at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. to accommodate more concertgoers, including members of the Filipino community with different work schedules.

Known for OPM hits such as "Beer," "Love Team" and "Di Na Muli," the band is expected to perform its signature songs for overseas Filipinos looking for a connection to home through live music.

Lead vocalist Jugs Jugueta said he is looking forward to returning to Hong Kong, which he last visited in 2019.

"Hong Kong has always been part of the Filipino story. The fact that it's so near, yet only a few OPM bands have played there baffles me," Jugueta said. "The last time I was in Hong Kong was in 2019, so I'm so excited to come back and eat goose with my bandmates."

Jugueta said the band is grateful for the support it has received from Filipinos around the world.

"It's very humbling that we are able to tour the world, and anywhere we go, there will be Filipinos there," he said. "It is also humbling that multiple generations love The Itchyworms' songs and continue to sing them everywhere."

Hong Kong debut

Drummer Jazz Nicolas said the band is approaching its Hong Kong debut with excitement, even as it does not know what to expect from the audience.

"We don't know what kind of atmosphere to expect. We really just roll with the punches and give them everything we've got," Nicolas said.

The Hong Kong stop will also feature collaborations with Filipino musicians based in the city, including Jesper Mercado and Rendel Frendol, who are expected to join The Itchyworms on stage.

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