The Pinoy Playlist Music Festival (PPMF) 2024 would finally finish its 7th year celebration. It features a resounding tribute to two titans of Filipino music: Celeste Legaspi and Odette Quesada. The awards ceremony was held on January 16th, 2025, at the Globe Auditorium, Maybank Performing Arts Theater, BGC Arts Center. It was a centerpiece of BGC’s Passionfest 2024 (“Passions Bridges”). This ceremony served as a powerful testament to their enduring legacies.
The evening was curated by National Artist for Music Maestro Ryan Cayabyab. It was organized along with Moy Ortiz, Noel Ferrer, and Maribel Garcia. True to its ethos, PPMF presented a diverse showcase of Filipino musical talents. These talents span genres and generations, from established masters to rising stars.
Celeste Legaspi was the first honoree. She received a standing ovation. This was a testament to her unparalleled contributions to the Filipino music scene. Legaspi was more than just a singer and actress. She carved her own unique path in the industry. She defied the tendency for local artists to emulate American styles at the height of her career. She instead embraced her Filipino identity, infusing her music with a cultural richness that resonated deeply with audiences.
Legaspi’s impact extends far beyond her captivating performances. She led the Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM). This was the Original Pilipino Music movement. It championed Filipino talent and musical styles. She had a keen eye for undiscovered talent, which led her into the world of production. Here, she continued to nurture emerging artists. Her legacy also includes creating impactful films. She produced “Ang Larawan” (The Portrait). This cinematic musical masterpiece captures the essence of Filipino heritage. It does so despite the complexities of time and conflict. Many local films cling to familiar tropes. In contrast, “Ang Larawan” offered a unique perspective. It told a truly Filipino story through the power of visuals and music. Her most recent work, “Song of the Fireflies,” is based on real events. This poignant film blurs the lines between documentary and feature film. It resonates powerfully with the current generation and reflects the evolving landscape of the Filipino music industry.
The tribute to Legaspi included heartfelt performances by Aicelle Santos, Dulce, Mitch Valdes, and Rachelle Gerodias. Each artist shared their own unique connection to the legend. Mitch Valdes, a close friend, shared moving anecdotes. These stories revealed Legaspi’s high social character as a “kanto girl” (street girl) at heart. They also highlighted her unwavering passion for music.
The second honoree, Odette Quesada, received a similarly warm reception, although her name may be less familiar to younger generations. Yet, her songs, timeless and deeply personal, continue to resonate across decades. Her style might have had a Western influence. However, a Filipino heart pulses through her lyrics. This connects intimately with the listener. Her name might be forgettable, but her music’s power is undeniable. It has transcended the artist herself.
Friends and colleagues paid tribute, with comedian Fe Delos Reyes offering a humorous roast that had the audience in stitches. The emotional high point of Quesada’s recognition arrived with a surprise appearance by Kuh Ledesma. Ledesma, a close friend, sang Quesada’s iconic hit “Til I Met You.” The song holds deep personal significance for Ledesma. It mirrors her own journey of religious faith.
The PPMF 2024’s tribute to Celeste Legaspi and Odette Quesada was more than just an awards ceremony. It was a celebration of Filipino musical heritage. It was a testament to the enduring power of music to connect generations. It was also a reminder of the artists who shaped the nation’s soundscape. The event launched Odette Quesada’s 60th birthday concert. This celebration was held over three days at the same venue. The evening was a resounding success. There is no doubt that the legacy of these two musical giants will continue to inspire. They will uplift Filipinos for years to come.
