As the country gears up for Labor Day, Malacañang opened its doors for a special night of music, emotion and gratitude at the “Konsyerto sa Palasyo: Para sa Ating mga OFWs.”

Held on the Kalayaan Grounds on Sunday evening, the event was a heartfelt tribute for the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), whose contributions to the country were celebrated with both joy and solemn reflection.

However, the night wasn’t all celebration. The concert took a somber turn as the announcer asked the crowd to pause and offer prayers for those affected by the tragic incident in Vancouver, Canada.

Prior to the event, a vehicle had driven into a crowd during the Lapu-Lapu Festival, leaving several people dead, many of whom were Filipino.

The loss cast a shadow over the evening, but it also reminded everyone of the importance of unity in the face of tragedy.

“Mag alay din tayo ng ilang sandali upang ipanalangin ang mga kababayan nating kabilang sa trahedyang naganap sa Vancouver, Canada (Let’s offer a moment to pray for our countrymen involved in this tragedy in Vancouver, Canada),” the announcer said.

The night also paid tribute to some of the Philippines’ greatest cultural icons.

The crowd remembered the late Joji Magadia, Hajji Alejandro, Pilita Corrales and Nora Aunor, whose contributions to music, film and Philippine culture have left an indelible mark.

Their legacies were honored with emotional performances, as the audience reminisced about their unforgettable roles in shaping the nation’s cultural identity.

The evening kicked off with an electrifying performance that had the crowd on their feet, singing along to upbeat anthems like “Manila,” “Bebot” and “Sikat ang Pinoy.”

The energy was contagious, setting the stage for what was not just a concert, but a celebration of the Filipino spirit.

Though President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. couldn’t attend the event in person due to his presence in Rome for Pope Francis’ funeral, he sent a heartfelt message to the crowd.

In his video address, the President expressed his deep admiration for the sacrifices made by OFWs.

“Ang gabing ito ay handog namin sa inyo. Ito ay simbolo ng aming taos-pusong pasasalamat at pagsaludo sa inyong ‘di matatawarang sakripisyo at dedikasyon upang mapabuti ang inyong pamilya, komunidad, at bansa, (This night is for you. This is a symbol of our hearfelt gratitude and salute to your sacrifices and dedication to improve your family, community and country) ” Mr. Marcos said.

The President’s words resonated deeply with the audience, reminding them that the contributions of OFWs are not only seen but celebrated by the entire nation.

He also acknowledged that OFWs, through their hard work and dedication, have earned the admiration of the world, strengthening the Philippines’ reputation abroad.

Celebrating Filipino talent and resilience

The music continued, showcasing the incredible talent of Filipino performers.

Among the highlights were world-class tenor Rap Cañedo, the stunning Marielle Montellano, dance artist Winchester Lopez and singer Reuben Laurente whose heartfelt performances left the crowd in awe.

The dancers of PrimeDance Manila electrified the stage with their storytelling, while the emotional Long Distance Medley — featuring songs like “Beyond the Sea” and “So Far Away” — captured the longing and sacrifices of OFWs working far from home.

The night’s finale brought everyone together for a powerful rendition of “Babalik Ka Rin,” a song that captured the enduring hope of Filipinos abroad — that no matter how far they go, they will always return to their homeland.

OFWs: The heartbeat of the nation

With Labor Day approaching, the timing of the concert couldn’t have been more fitting.

The evening was a poignant reminder of the critical role OFWs play in the country’s economy.

In 2024, nearly 2.5 million Filipinos left the Philippines to work abroad, and their remittances are vital to the livelihoods of millions of families.

Just in January 2025, OFWs sent home $3.24 billion in remittances, a testament to their unwavering dedication and hard work.

The concert also highlighted the diversity of jobs Filipinos hold overseas, from domestic workers in the Middle East to healthcare professionals in the United States and Europe.

The Philippines has earned a reputation for producing some of the world’s most skilled and compassionate workers — whether in homes, hospitals, or businesses — making OFWs modern-day heroes in every sense of the word.

More than just a night of music, “Konsyerto sa Palasyo” was an emotional celebration of Filipino resilience.

It was a reminder that, no matter where they are in the world, OFWs carry the spirit of the Philippines with them.

Through their sacrifices, they continue to shape the future of their families, their communities, and the nation as a whole.

As the final notes of “Babalik Ka Rin” filled the air, there was a shared sense of pride and unity among the crowd.