1 month ago
16
When Aegis takes the stage at the New Frontier Theater on February 1 and 2 for their much-anticipated comeback concert, "Aegis: Halik sa Ulan: A Valentine Special," the absence of Mercy Sunot will be as palpable as her enduring legacy.
"There's no doubt this concert will be different because Mercy is no longer with us," shared Juliet Sunot, one of the band's lead vocalists and Mercy's sister. "She really wanted to do this concert had she gotten better, which is all the more reason why we really need to do this and do our best — for her."
Since their formation in 1995, Aegis has weathered many storms but they’re ready and roaring to return to the stage. PHOTO COURTESY OF CUES FUES ADVERTISING
Mercy, who passed away in November 2024 after battling an illness in the United States, was a foundational part of Aegis. Together with her siblings Juliet and Ken, and bandmates Stella Pabico, Vilma Goloviogo, Rowena "Weng" Adriano, and Rey Abenoja, she gave voice to iconic OPM anthems like "Luha," "Basang-Basa sa Ulan" and "Sayang na Sayang."
Fans will hear these classics during the two-night concert, but this time, they will carry the added weight of tribute. "When we sing, we feel our sister with us because it was so important for her for Aegis to carry on," Juliet reflected.
Mercy's illness was a private struggle. "People didn't know that Mercy was in the US for a long time, getting treatment and trying to get better," Juliet revealed. "When we lost her, we could hardly sing anymore. But other people kept singing her songs, so we realized we had to carry on."
Get the latest news
delivered to your inbox
Sign up for The Manila Times newsletters
By signing up with an email address, I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
The band's determination to honor Mercy's memory is deeply interwoven into the concert's DNA. Directed by Frank Mamaril, the event promises a carefully crafted balance of emotional poignancy and celebration.
"The tribute will be meaningful and heartfelt. Like Juliet said, you'll feel her presence throughout the concert," shared Mamaril. "It's a very emotional process for the band, but we've made sure the concert will celebrate Mercy's legacy while giving the members the space they need to heal."
Meanwhile, each concert night will feature a unique lineup of guest performers. On February 1, fans will be treated to the powerhouse vocals of Morissette Amon, alongside rising stars Formula 5 and a surprise OPM legend. February 2 will showcase Ogie Alcasid, Jona, Julie Anne San Jose, and another performance by Formula 5.
The concert's title, "Halik sa Ulan" (Kiss in the Rain), feels fitting for a band whose music is drenched in raw emotion and resilience.
Since their formation in 1995, Aegis has weathered many storms — from the loss of their main composer Celso Abenoja in 2007 to the heartache of Mercy's passing. Yet, as their name suggests — derived from the Greek word for "shield" or "protection" — they've always found a way to push forward.
"Mercy believed in the power of music to connect with people, to bring joy and comfort," Juliet said. "When we hear people singing our songs, we know she's still here with us."
For fans, the concert is a chance to not only revisit the hits that have soundtracked their lives but also to honor the woman whose voice was central to them.
"Mercy's dream was for Aegis to continue," Juliet emphasized. "And that's what we'll do."
Tickets to "Aegis: Halik sa Ulan: A Valentine Special" are available via TicketNet. The concert is produced by Cues + Fues Advertising, Inc.
