Gary V — a hit in the land down under

Gary Valenciano swept Filipino-Australians and New Zealanders off their feet in five solid two-hour concerts in March. The shows drew tears, cheers, standing ovations, and long lines at meet-and-greets as he performed in the Australian cities of Brisbane, Perth, and Melbourne, before heading to New Zealand's capital, Wellington.

Hit after hit with songs like "Sana Maulit Muli," "Shout For Joy," "Take Me Out of the Dark," "Huwag Mo Na Sanang Isipin," and "Di Bale Na Lang," the well-loved OPM icon moved hearts and souls of his Filipino, Australian and Kiwi fans.

Valenciano's fans sang and danced with him, took selfies and thoroughly enjoyed his concerts. Many brought gifts, chocolates, and stuffed toys and shared anecdotes with songs he has recorded.

‘Mr. Pure Energy’ delivers a powerful and deeply moving performance in New Zealand and Australian cities. PHOTO FROM JNR8 PRODUCTIONS

One stage four cancer patient drove all the way from Adelaide to Melbourne for nine hours. When the Sydney concert sold out early, his ticket buyers flew to Melbourne to purchase their tickets. One couple in Wellington also shared that they watched the "Pure Energy" concert on December 20 at the Araneta Coliseum and decided to watch his concert again to vie a complete presentation. Many even brought their children and grandchildren to witness and experience their idol in concert.

Concert promoter Annabelle Regalado-Borja of E-Talent who used to run ABS-CBN's Star Records shared, "Most of the people who watched the shows, including myself, got inspired."

Valenciano is slated to return to Australia in August.