In time for the Sinulog Festival 2025, the remaining two members of Apo Hiking Society, namely Jim Paredes and Boboy Garovillo were invited to perform in Waterfront Hotel in Cebu City.
Sadly, Danny Javier, the other member of the trio died three years ago.
The spirit of the singing group has been alive, though, for years, in honor of Danny.
On the 50th year of Apo, Jim and Boboy will relive their original performances in the city where they performed fifty years ago.
In Jim’s social media posts recently, he reminisced Apo’s unforgettable experiences in the Queen City of the South. “On way to Cebu where Boboy and I will be doing our 50th year anniversary repertoire with our band, a brass section and loads of nostalgic photos l vids spanning our career. It will be a total experience.
“So excited. Cebu is our second home. It was there when we first experienced screaming fans in 1974. We have always had great shows there. I promise you this will be the greatest yet.”
Meanwhile, Boboy said in his digital communication that he and Jim met and reconnected with a friend and a patron in Cebu. “Such a sentimental meeting with an old friend from 50 years ago when we had our first big concert in Cebu. Cebu welcomed us like we were full-fledged stars in 1974,” exclaimed Garovillo.
Here’s Cebuana Vanette Colmenares’ FB account when she had a memorable encounter with the Apo:
“When I met you!!!!
“In the summer of 1974, I scored a part-time summer job with a testosterone-charged organization that needed a secretary for their production. The concert featured a trio from Manila known as the Apo Hiking Society. My tasks included prepping for their big show at the Cebu Coliseum, organizing school motorcades, selling tickets, and all the usual production chores.
“This was their first show outside of Manila. While the Cebuano audiences were notoriously very picky about their entertainment scene in those days, but once you break the ice, they’re all in. And so, the Apo Hiking Society composed of Danny Javier, Boboy Garovillo and Jim Paredes began their journey to musical icon status.
“Post-gig, Jim and I became close friends as we exchanged correspondence via mail (no internet yet). However, over time, the exchanges naturally just faded.
“Fast forward 40 years, and I'm living in the Big Apple, New York. While waiting for a phone technician at the Apple Store on Fifth Avenue, I spotted a familiar face descending the steps. Without hesitation, I approached and said, ‘I think I know you.’ He replied, ‘Who am I?’ Instead of answering, I asked, ‘Do you remember me?’
“He seemed unsure, likely not wanting to offend, so I said, ‘I'm Vanette... from Cebu.’ His brows furrowed briefly before he exclaimed, ‘Vanette??? VAAANNNEETTTE!’ and gave me a big long hug. ‘How long has it been?’ he asked. ‘40 years,’ I replied.
“We had a quick chat. I asked why he was at the Apple Store, he admitted, ‘I'm a Samsung guy just checking out the competition, but don't tell. (years later, I too became a Samsung gal, but don’t tell).
“I smiled. And just like that, after four decades, I ran into the guy from those unforgettable days. Before saying our goodbyes, He then asked, ‘When do you think we'll meet again?’ I chuckled and replied, ‘Who knows? Maybe in another 40 years!’
“Soon, we reconnected through social media—Multiply, Filipino sites, and Facebook. Our exchanges were mostly one-liners and casual greetings. I’d like to believe we were good friends, perhaps even BFFs. Everyone in my circle knew I was with the handsome tall guy from the trio on their first trip to Cebu, leading to whispers and raised eyebrows.
“I prefer to think of it as ‘sikit-sikit dili uyab’—a close bond without commitment. Translation: it’s not complicated... just a teenage fantasy.
“Since the first time they had a show in Cebu, 50 years ago, I have never seen any of the Apo shows until last night, which happened to be my second.
“As I watched the show, I yearned for that nostalgic rush of being a young teenager, where wild emotions ran high with melodramatic excitement. I would jump, dance and gyrate to the beat of the music. But this time, things were different.
“During the show, I stayed seated, yet thrilled to do my chair exercises while the band played and the singers performed. That was my treat. Whenever I felt like standing, I would sway and lift my arms. These days, the real excitement comes when I'm waiting for that winning mahjong tile, bringing a unique thrill in my senior years.
“I am in awe and full of respect for Jim and Boboy. Despite their age, they still manage to rock the house with their wit and sense of humor. I chatted with some young attendees who confided that they loved the Apo, having grown up with their grandparents' favorite music. I was astounded to find many teenagers and yuppies who could sing every word of their songs, as if the songs were etched into their memory. The APO music truly bridges generations and leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all ages. Indeed, the phrase seen on the screen across the stage that says ‘Apo Ageless Society’ could not tell it better.
“Despite our ages, I still managed to rock up with every bit of their song. The Apo performance was indeed worth every moment and is a must-see next time around. Congratulations, Jim and Boboy, for an unforgettable show! And a special shoutout to Shirley Grace Ong, the producer, who ceded to my request last night—you're the best.”
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