Maki, Nobita, Jason Dy, and More Stir Emotions with Music in ‘Wish Date: Send My Love’

‍

“Send My Love,” the 13th installment of the Wish Date series, featured a short film that paid homage to different facets of love — the unconditional, the kind we lose in pursuit of our dreams, and the kind that ushers in new beginnings.

‍

‍

Stirring hearts and bringing the film’s emotions to life, a top-notch lineup of OPM acts graced the Araneta Coliseum stage on Sunday, June 30. The performers included singer-songwriter Maki — who brought Angela Ken and Nhiko Sabiniano as surprise guests; pop-rock band Nobita; singer-actress Jayda; multi-hyphenate artist Jason Dy; up-and-coming band Letters From June; and the series’ resident choir, the Wish Chorale.

Love, friendship, and dreams

‍

‍

The short film follows the story of Aria (Kira Balinger) and Kyle (Mark Ian Garcia). Aria and Kyle met in college and shared a deep bond. Aria then pursued law and post-graduate studies, choosing her dream over their friendship. But all this came at a cost: Aria losing the very person who supported her all these years. Guided and inspired by her father (Allen Dizon)’s unconditional love, a regretful Aria soon found her way back home only to discover a surprising reality.

‍

‍

Actors Karen Timbol (Aria’s mother) and Lloyd Garcia (Matt, Aria’s college friend) were also part of the film. Kate Yalung, who played in previous Wish Date editions, made a special appearance.

A story driven by music and emotions

‍

Interwoven between the film’s acts, musical performances added an emotional flair to the event.

‍

‍

Nobita kicked off the performances with “Unang Sayaw,” setting the stage for the sweet opening scene when Aria and Kyle first met. The band also performed “Tayo Na Lang,” a representation of the uncertainty of beginning a new chapter, and “Ikaw Lang,” which is symbolic of Aria’s constant support.

‍

‍

Their own spin on Orange and Lemons’ “Hanggang Kailan” was a suitable anthem of longing. The band would later return for a memorable encore, closing with the Eraserheads’ classic track “Magasin.”

‍

‍

‍

‍

Maki’s set included his chart-topping tracks “Dilaw,” “Bakit,” and “Kailan.” Each song served as a fitting soundtrack to key moments in Aria and Kyle’s story — from their blossoming friendship to the paths they chose to follow. “Sikulo,” which reflected Aria’s journey through law school, featured Angela Ken and Nhiko Sabiniano.

‍

‍

Meanwhile, Jayda captivated the audience with her performances of “Happy For You” and “Right Lover, Wrong Time.” These heart-stirring musical pieces were both pivotal to the story’s development. She also delivered a moving rendition of Katy Perry’s “The One That Got Away” while Aria delivered a tear-jerking live acting performance.

‍

‍

On his Wish Date stint, Jason Dy charmed everyone with the timeless OPM hit “Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin,” as the protagonists shared a sweet moment in one point of the film. Narrating Aria’s and Kyle’s feelings through songs, he also performed a rendition of Luther Vandross’ “Dance With My Father” and Sam Smith’s “Stay With Me.” Keno’s “Leaving Yesterday Behind” was an endearing way to tell Aria and Kyle’s heartfelt story of love, loss, and friendship.

‍

‍

A special performance central to the film came from Letters from June. The up-and-coming band signed under KDR Music House performed “Bituin,” serving as the event’s theme song. This track reflects on the heartbreak of being left out after giving one’s all for love.

Missed watching the show? Want to relive the event’s most heartfelt moments? Catch the upcoming digital stream of “Wish Date: Send My Love.” Stay updated by following KDR Music House’s Facebook page!

Written by Joram Flores
Edited by Emmy Borromeo
Photos by Kenneth Valladolid