A first of its kind music festival, the Ishin-Denshin International Music Festival, featuring Filipino and Japanese pop music, was successfully held at the MOA Concert Grounds recently with the proceeds intended to go to the Manny Pacquiao Foundation for the rehabilitation of the people of Marawi City.
The Ishin-Denshin, a Japanese idiom meaning “what the mind thinks, the heart transmits,” was presented in Manila by Monde Luce Productions, headed by Irizuki Kazuyoshi, and in coordination with Miss Global Philippines Organization, led by its president and CEO Pauline Sofia Laping. The Ishin-Denshin musicfest was billed as a celebration of life, with the objective to unite Filipino and Japanese music lovers and showcase the vibrant character of the two different cultures.
“The relationship between our two countries, historically, has been very dynamic. There’s always been a lot of similarities and differences, but above all, there’s always been admiration and respect. What better way to celebrate the bond between our countries’ cultures than with the biggest music festival this side of the Pacific,” Kazuyoshi said.
Among the performers were Bamboo, Ely Buendia, Apl de Ap, Itchyworms, Roksteddy, Absolute Play, Barbi Almabis, Beni Beverly, Maria Gow together with DJ Ace Ramos, DJ Hello Kitty, DJ Daiki and DJ Shoyd who was excited to share the stage with some of the big names in the pop scene. Music fans of all ages got the best from all the performers as they explored new and exciting sounds that had never been heard before.
Text and Photos: Eton Concepcion