“I am Filipino in my heart!” These were the words exclaimed by living musical legend Julio Iglesias as he performed for thousands of pinoy fans the other week at the Araneta Colisuem. The Latin crooner dedicated the Manila leg of his world tour, aptly entitled “Heart of Gold,” to the victims of typhoon Ondoy and proudly proclaimed his special relationship with Filipino culture and people.
Julio Iglesias performs "Dahil Sa'yo" with Sharon Cuneta at the
Big Dome's 50th Anniversary Celebration
Julio stated, “In 10 years, there will be 200 million Filipinos & 3 of those are mine” (referring to his 3 children with first wife, Filipina Isabel Preysler) and even joked with the audience that he is a “master” of Filipino food.
“I know good adobo, pancit, & lumpia when I taste them,” said Julio with a smile before performing with the country’s megastar Sharon Cuneta. Aside from singing “All of You” and “When You Tell Me That You Love Me” with the renowned Latin artist, Sharon also sang the classic Filipino love song “Dahil Sa’yo” with Julio, making the audience swoon. The lyrics to the classic Filipino song were even projected on giant screens around the Big Dome for fans to join them in singing.
During his concert, Julio was clearly teary-eyed when he recalled how Mr. Araneta (who he lovingly calls “Jorge”) told him about what happened during typhoon Ondoy. He said “I am very thankful that I have everything I need but I am guilty for those Filipinos who lost their homes & their lives because of the typhoon. That is why I, as an artist, have to help them as much as I can, in whatever way I can. And I am thankful to all of you for buying your tickets and doing your part to also help these typhoon victims. ”
Iglesias’ “Heart of Gold” concert was held in celebration of Araneta Coliseum’s Golden Anniversary, to benefit the people who were the primary reason for the existence of the country’s mecca of sports and entertainment. In a great act of kindness, Julio waived his talent fee for the concert. To match his generosity, the Big Dome likewise waived its rental fee while all the proceeds of ticket sales will also be turned over to the beneficiaries. In short, for the first time in the 50-year history of the Big Dome, all proceeds of a landmark concert done by a renowned international artist goes to charity.
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