Fr. Mejares, Cebuano divas to topbill Kaplag concert

FR. JONAS MEJARES

The Order of Saint Augustine (OSA) priests will stage a concert dubbed the “450th Kaplag Konsyerto” tomorrow, April 27.

The concert might be Fr. Jonas Mejares’ last performance as  the OSA fathers will  convene next month for the reshuffling of assignments.

“Many people did approach me and asked me if this would be my farewell concert. Lisod tubagon (Difficult to answer),” said Mejares in a press conference at the Basilica’s multi-purpose hall last Friday.

But the Boholano rector of the Basilica del Sto. Niño assured that he will continue singing for the Cebuanos.

“Whether I will be transferred or not, I will continue to sing for Senyor Sto. Niño. I will continue to sing for the people. I will continue to sing for the Cebuanos.”

He said he will be singing songs of renowned artists like Phil Collins and Bon Jovi in tomorrow’s concert.

He also hinted that he will perform Original Pinoy Music (OPM) hits of Rivermaya and Eraserheads.

The concert will feature Cebuana singing divas Sheryn Regis and Anna Fegi, and Donna Cruz, wife of Dr. Potenciano “Yong” Larrazabal III.

It will also feature Filipina-American Kirby Asunto, the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño Grand Choir which Fr. Mejares formed when he served as dean of the Conservatory of Music at the University of San Agustin in Iloilo.

Kaplag Konsyerto production manager Gloria Villarojo said that they are expecting 3,000 spectators.

Fr. Harold Rentoria, executive director of the grand Kaplag celebration, said that the purpose of the concert is to bring the image of the Holy Child throughout the Philippines through the sold tickets, which serve as donations for financial support.

Cruz said that it’s an honor to be invited to perform and she’s happy to help support the Kaplag advocacy. She added that she is willing to have a duet performance with Mejares during the concert.