Apo Hiking Society Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Memorable Concert Experience
The iconic Filipino musical group, Apo Hiking Society, commemorated their 50th anniversary with a spectacular concert held last July 15 and 16 at Arete’s Hyundai Hall in Ateneo. The show stood out from other anniversary concerts by incorporating unconventional staging styles and a diverse range of musical genres. From classic OPM hits and traditional “kundiman” songs to contemporary tracks by artists like Bruno Mars, Basia, and BTS, Apo Hiking Society proved their versatility and ability to captivate a wide audience.
Director Leo Rialp, who helmed the concert, shared that while setting up an Apo show may not be difficult due to their extensive repertoire of hit songs and lively banter, the challenge lies in seamlessly putting everything together. It’s crucial to strike a balance between showcasing Apo’s musicality and showmanship while also incorporating chart-topping songs that resonate with Filipino music lovers. Musical director Bond Samson played a vital role in fusing disparate genres, making the transitions smooth and enjoyable.
The concert began on an interactive note, with the audience encouraged to stand up, only to be playfully told to sit back down. Jim Paredes and Boboy Garrovillo then took the stage and kickstarted the show with their hit song “Ewan,” followed by a delightful medley of Apo’s beloved tracks such as “When I Met You,” “Yakap sa Dilim,” and “Love is for Singing.” They also performed lesser-known gems like “Araw” and “Giliw,” ensuring that longtime fans and newcomers alike were treated to a memorable sing-along experience filled with nostalgia and a touch of joy.
The concert not only celebrated Apo’s extensive catalog but also provided fascinating trivia about the group through a video wall behind the stage. Details such as their “farewell show” in 1973, the departure of the fourth member Lito de Joya, and Danny Javier’s contribution to the OPM genre were shared, adding depth and context to the night’s proceedings.
The absence of Danny Javier, who passed away last year, was deeply felt during the concert. Jim and Boboy took turns carrying his parts in songs like “Tuyo ng Damdamin,” imbuing them with a somber and elegiac tone. Danny’s presence was honored with a touching video of him performing his self-penned song “Lahat Tayo,” which he composed while coming to terms with his illness. The emotional highlight of the night came when Danny’s eldest son, Jobim, joined Jim and Boboy on stage to sing “Batang-Bata Ka Pa” together, creating a powerful moment that showcased the everlasting impact of their music.
Despite a minor technical glitch, the concert proved to be a remarkable experience that transcended generations. Apo Hiking Society’s 50th anniversary show deserves to be witnessed by audiences across the country and even overseas.
