Juan Karlos fulfills late fan’s wish with emotional tribute

Singer-songwriter Juan Karlos Labajo paid a heartfelt tribute to Trisha Macalagay, a devoted fan who tragically lost her life in a university fire in Laguna.

Trisha's family shared on social media how much she admired Juan Karlos, especially his version of "Through the Years" from the film Lolo and The Kid. She had been looking forward to watching him perform at the Anilag Festival, but the fire took her life before she could see her idol live.

Ahead of his festival performance, a relative, Macoy Fernandez, posted a request on Facebook, hoping to fulfill Trisha’s last wish.

"Dear Juan Karlos, I have a very special task for Trisha Macalagay today and for her bereaved family. It is my mission for you to sign these beautiful portraits of her," he wrote.

Moved by the request, Juan Karlos dedicated his performance of "Through the Years to Trisha."

"Ito yung song na gustong-gusto niya. Trisha wanted to go tonight kaso lang… Trisha, kung nasaan ka man ngayon, para sa’yo ito (She loves this song. Trisha wanted to go tonight but... Trisha, wherever you are now, this is for you)," he said in a video clip shared by the family. He also signed a photo of Trisha, writing, "You are LOVED, TRISHA! With gratitude, Juan Karlos."

Beyond the dedication, Juan Karlos promised to visit Trisha’s wake after his scheduled commitments. Elaine de Ramos, a relative, later shared photos from his visit, praising his humility.

"Thank you for making Trisha’s dream come true, Juan Karlos. Such a humble gentleman! Nakakahanga ka tunay, JK!" she wrote. "Watching her dream become a reality gave us a sense of hope and peace. Thank you for bringing so much comfort to our family and mostly to Trisha!"

MJ Macalagay, another family member, wrote, "Bunso, alam ko ang saya mo ngayon. 😭 Yung ngiti at kilig mo."

Juan Karlos himself shared a simple but touching tribute on Facebook, writing, "Maraming Salamat, Trisha Macalagay ❤️."

His willingness to honor her memory and bring comfort to her loved ones is a reminder of how artists can deeply touch the lives of their fans.