It was a birthday celebration like no other.
It was a rare project for true blue Cebuana and Asia's Timeless Diva Dulce has been waiting for all these years.
Although she has done a lot of shows, "Wagi" was a gig above the rest.
When entertainment journalist and former member of the Young Critics Circle Noel Ferrer and Dulce (YCC) were talking about a possible concert of a lifetime, it crossed their minds about a show that gives tribute to the long years an artist has spent in his or her career that gives credence to his or her interpretation of thoughts and emotions of music, of a song.
What a perfect idea.
Everything was planned well.
"Wagi" was a summary of Dulce's optimum singing prowess that should never retire for the sake of the audience who is always in need of a singer who embodies their aspirations and love for country.
Because Dulce is a real naturalist and a nationalist.
Besides, she is also a religious person, a God fearing individual who loves her fellow men tenderly.
Then came the birthday of Asia's Timeless Diva.
The BGC Arts Center might be a concert hall but it was also an ideal venue to celebrate Dulce's special day.
True enough, the two-night gig was an expression of love and compassion for humanity.
Friends, family, colleagues, fans, followers and even strangers trooped to the Center not only to savor the music and voice of the celebrator but also to share with her vision and aspirations as a person.
One of the most memorable moments Dulce had unleashed was her duet with Asia's Nightingale Lani Misalucha.
What appeared to be a solo performance of Dulce's signature song "Paano" was made more exciting and wonderful when she came down to the crowd and met up with Lani who was dressed simply in jeans and black t-shirt.
The next line of the song after the refrain was rendered by Lani to the audience's delight, to her cathartic affectations and to the host's gratitude and inspiration.
"Wagi" as a title was adapted to Dulce's winning song, "Ako ang Nasawi, Ako ang Nagwagi," an original composition of George Canseco which she sang at the 1979 Metro Manila Music Festival or Metropop and won 1st Prize.
"Wagi" should be brought not only up north in the Philippines or down south in Cebu, Samar and Leyte but also across the globe.
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