SB19 proves why they are P-Pop kings in first Abra gig

SB19 shows Abra why they are the ‘Kings of P-Pop.’/SB19 FACEBOOK PHOTO

The phenomenal P-Pop group SB19 has already performed in front of international audiences in venues and studios outside the country. But it was the quintet’s first time to show their mettle in Northern Luzon over the weekend.

The “Kings of P-Pop” Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin headlined the Abrenian Kawayan Festival Variety Show held at the Abra Sports Complex on March 9, and were welcomed by deafening shrieks from residents in the province and nearby towns.

SB19 opened their act with their latest global hit “Gento” that got frenzied Abrenians on their feet. The members then introduced themselves individually, punctuated by loud screams cheering on each and everyone of them.

“Naimbag nga rabi-i (good evening)” Stell greeted the crowd. “It’s our first time [to perform at the] Abra Sports Complex,” Justin added.

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Ken continued in a mix of English and Filipino: “Finally we had the chance to visit you here in Abra. We had a long trip, but it was worth it to see you all here. God finally gave us the chance to meet you all here.”

The group continued to deliver some of their previous releases, that delighted their audience, who sang along with them, and even danced in the same choreography.

Filipino rock band Silent Sanctuary also brought the house down at the show, part of the weekend celebration of the Abrenian Kawayan Festival, which also includes the staging of the 2024 Miss Abra pageant on the same stage on March 8.

The contest was hosted by JC Tiuseco and 2014 Miss Universe Top 10 finisher Mary Jean Lastimosa, with reigning Miss Philippines Tourism Herlene Budol as part of the judging panel.

The Miss Abra crown went to Jeralene Acosta, who also received the Best in Evening Gown award. Austhrie Sanchez, meanwhile, was proclaimed as Pageant of the World Philippines Abra, while Jhanzy Mai Ellorin was crowned Miss Culture and Tourism.

Julien Ferrine Vibas finished as first runner-up, while Rhyzel Claire Timbreza rounded up the winners’ circle as second runner-up.

Both programs during the weekend festival were mounted by Aika Events and Productions, the same team behind the 2023 Binibining Pilipinas coronation night, which earned praises from pageant fans here and abroad for the fast-paced production and visual spectacle that rivaled the vibrance of some of the best national pageants abroad.