Parklinks, Pasig City — 7 June 2025
On a breezy Sunday night in June, the Parklinks Event Grounds transformed into a powerful space of unity, healing, and advocacy as some of the Philippines’ brightest musical acts came together for a shared mission: to “Break the Silence.” Far from a typical concert, this music festival combined the euphoria of live performances with the urgency of social justice, calling attention to the often-overlooked issues of abuse against children and women.
Organized by JCI Manila, Break the Silence was not only a showcase of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) excellence but also a benefit event aimed at supporting three crucial institutions—My Children’s House of Hope, Stairway Foundation, and ABS-CBN Foundation’s Bantay Bata 163. These organizations have been at the forefront of protecting vulnerable youth and survivors of abuse, making the night’s purpose deeply personal and relevant.
A Lineup with Heart and Soul
The stage was graced by a dynamic mix of musical talents. From the crowd-favorite December Avenue, to indie darlings like Over October, and the new OPM hitmakers Sunkissed Lola, each artist brought their own flair to the night. But the spotlight belonged to three headliners whose performances elevated the event from moving to unforgettable: Juan Karlos, Zack Tabudlo, and Syd Hartha.
Juan Karlos: Raw, Soulful, and Magnetic
Juan Karlos, whose voice has long been associated with vulnerability and intensity, delivered a performance that was nothing short of gripping. As seen in a circulating Facebook reel, he opened with a haunting rendition of “Buwan,” instantly drawing a collective cheer from the audience. Clad in a minimalist ensemble that let his voice take center stage, he poured raw emotion into every lyric. The crowd was visibly swayed—not just by his vocal talent but by the conviction behind his performance.
There’s a timeless quality to Juan Karlos’ artistry—his ability to turn personal pain into communal healing. For an event centered around breaking the silence on abuse, his music struck the perfect emotional chord.
Zack Tabudlo: Romantic Ballads with a Purpose
Zack Tabudlo brought a different but equally compelling energy. Known for his dreamy, heartfelt pop ballads, Zack performed a string of hits that included fan favorites like “Binibini” and “Pano.” But what made his set extra special was the way he connected with the audience—his voice mellow but packed with feeling, his presence humble but confident.
In a heartwarming moment captured on video, Zack invited Juan Karlos back on stage for a surprise duet of “Buwan,” blending their distinct vocal styles into a soulful harmony that had the audience lighting up their phone flashlights in unison. The spontaneity and brotherhood shared between these two artists symbolized what OPM is all about: collaboration, community, and compassion.
Syd Hartha: Rising Star, Radiating Power
If the evening had a breakout moment, it was courtesy of Syd Hartha. A younger voice in the OPM scene, Syd brought a refreshing yet powerful performance that cut through the noise with grace and authenticity. Her reel from the night showcases a confident artist delivering each line with precision and soul. Her set mixed introspective lyrics with stripped-down instrumentals, highlighting her artistry and substance.
Syd’s songs, often rooted in themes of self-empowerment and personal growth, aligned beautifully with the night’s advocacy. She reminded the audience—especially the younger ones—that healing is not only possible but also beautiful.
More Than Just a Concert
Beyond the music, Break the Silence stood out for its atmosphere and purpose. The grounds were thoughtfully set up with food stalls, cozy lounges, and interactive booths, encouraging guests to engage, learn, and support the cause further. Information materials were distributed across the venue to raise awareness on child protection and women’s rights, while donation stations and merch booths ensured that proceeds would go directly to the event’s partner organizations.
The event proved that when entertainment and advocacy intersect, they can create lasting impact. It wasn’t just a night of good music; it was a powerful reminder that we can use our platforms—big or small—to make a difference.
A Night to Remember, A Message to Amplify
What truly set Break the Silence apart was the emotional atmosphere—moments when performers would pause between sets to speak about the importance of the cause, the stories behind the organizations involved, and the silent battles many survivors continue to face.
This authenticity struck a chord with the audience, reminding everyone that silence can be deadly, but speaking out can save lives. Music has always been a tool for healing, and that night, every note and lyric served a higher purpose.
The hope is that this won’t be the last we see of this initiative. With the success of its first staging, Break the Silence could well become a recurring platform—not only for showcasing musical talent but also for continuing the conversation on abuse, justice, and recovery.
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