Classic hits, crowd energy, and a sense of homecoming anchored the explosive return of the Black Eyed Peas to Manila. At the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Aug. 27, the Los Angeles-based pop-rap group reminded fans why its music still carries power, two decades after it first ruled global charts.
This was the Black Eyed Peas’ fourth show in the Philippines since its 2005 debut, and while the hits were expected, the night turned into a full-scale arena party. It was also a celebration of Filipino talent, pride, and identity, guided by Apl.de.ap’s roots and strengthened by the presence of new voices now sharing the stage with him.
The set opened like a familiar party, with will.i.am, Taboo, and Apl.de.ap working the crowd into the kind of frenzy that only “I Gotta Feeling” or “Where Is the Love?” can deliver. J. Rey Soul, the Filipina singer who joined the group in recent years, turned her moment on stage into something more personal.
Introducing herself in front of the roaring crowd, she reminded everyone of her journey from San Pedro, Laguna, to The Voice Philippines, to touring the world with the Black Eyed Peas. Her story, punctuated by will.i.am’s words about family and belonging, carried weight. It was a proud acknowledgment of how she has stepped into her own place in the group.
If J. Rey gave the night its emotional heart, Apl.de.ap provided its cultural anchor. Introduced by Taboo as “the one and only Apl.de.ap from Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga,” he stepped out in a Francis Libiran outfit in the colors of the Philippine flag and opened with Asin’s “Balita.” It was the kind of nod to heritage that turned a global act’s arena show into something distinctly local.
Apl.de.ap’s gratitude was palpable. His words, “Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!” were met with thunderous cheers, and his pride spilled into every song. He even surprised fans by bringing out Sandara Park, a long-time Pinoy favorite, to the delight of the crowd. Later, teaming up with Ez Mil on “Bebot,” he sparked a chant of “Filipino! Filipino! Filipino!” that shook the arena to its core.
Between songs and surprises, the Black Eyed Peas balanced global spectacle with a sense of homecoming. will.i.am paused to honor Apl.de.ap’s humility, recalling how he still lives in the same house in Angeles City despite worldwide fame. “He’s still that kuya, still your pare,” will.i.am told the crowd.
As the show closed, Taboo promised a return. Apl.de.ap, still emotional, sang out “Ang bayan Kong Pilipinas,” his voice mixing with J. Rey’s “Maraming maraming salamat po ulit,” before will.i.am delivered the final word: “Thank you, Philippines! We are the Black Eyed Peas.”
