Kitchie Nadal, Bisaya talents make it a Rockin' Valentine's at Hoops Dome

CEBU, Philippines — Kitchie Nadal may have delivered her version of The Eras Tour at the Rockin’ Valentines benefit concert on February 14 at the Hoops Dome of Lapu-Lapu City as she took her audience on a nostalgic journey through her discography.

Throughout her an hour and a half set, she dedicated a portion to a medley of her iconic tracks that were theme songs in popular teleseryes of the 2000s, including “Huwag Na Huwag Mong Sasabihin” from Lovers in Paris, “Makulay Na Buhay” from I Luv NY, and the titular fantaserye theme song “Magika,” among others.

She also performed tracks from her acting debut in the 2013 film The Muses, such as “Malaya” and “Sing,” while clips of the film, shot in Cebu, were played in the background beforehand.

Nadal gave a nod to OPM classics by covering Rivermaya’s “214” and Eraserheads’ “Ligaya.”

She also gave the Cebuano audience a glimpse of her upcoming single with Hemp Republic vocalist Bunny Liwanag, who joined her on stage to mark Nadal's reggae-pop debut. During a quick intermission while Nadal was backstage, Liwanag performed “Aso?” to the crowd’s delight.

Near the end of the concert, two lucky fans were invited to sing along with Nadal to “Same Ground” after she asked for volunteers from the audience.

“I just had to grab the chance while I can!” one of the fans told The FREEMAN after her unforgettable moment.

As the concert drew to a close, many in the seated audience stood up and moved closer to the stage as Nadal performed an extended encore of “Huwag” before ending the night with “Bulong!!!”

Nearly three decades into her career, Nadal proved she still has the hits that resonate across generations, thanks to her memorable hooks and relatable lyrics.

Before Nadal took the stage, local acts showcased Bisaya music with fantastic flair.

The Agadiers engaged the crowd with their storytelling, Rommel Tuico and The Brews delivered a wavy performance, Indephums brought metal rock energy, Iping Amores set a laid-back vibe, Emping connected warmly with the audience, while Fervent shared their faith through rock.

Adding to the night’s highlights were the young, talented singers from Sto. Niño Mactan Montessori School’s Music Fest competition, who impressed the crowd with their flawless harmonies.

Despite the predominantly rock lineup, the concert lived up to its name as love was undeniably in the air at the Hoops Dome through their music.

Produced by Twins888 Productions with partners including The FREEMAN, BANAT NEWS, and various sponsors, the concert’s proceeds will be donated to the Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Center in Lapu-Lapu City. — (FREEMAN)