The power of music has always been considered an effective instrument that can drive social change, aid in magnifying advocacies, and echo calls for support. Leveraging on its potential to positively impact lives, Best Buddies Philippines (BBP), in collaboration with The Bistro Group, will hold a benefit show at Hard Rock Café Manila Conrad S’Maison, on Feb. 6 at 6 p.m.

Billed “Sounds of Change,” this one-night-only event will feature BBP artists and musicians Angela Batallones, Anouck Weber, Clarence Cruz, Ian Borleo, Kyle Ebora, Luis Gatchalian Mark Daza, Sky Jacoba, Luis Gatchalian, Joe, and Mike Chan.

Each ‘buddy’ artist will collaborate and perform with partner musicians who are too happy to lend their support, talent, and time. By getting together talents with and without Intellectual and Development Disabilities (IDDs), this concerted effort promises to create a heartwarming vibe about the power of friendship and social inclusion.

“Music is something that the buddies identify with; it always brings people together. It is meant to create change in the community. Sounds of Change will feature buddies with IDDs who have incredible talents, as we believe that the best way to amplify these talents is to put the spotlight on them, even just for one night, and showcase their abilities, ” says Michelle Aventajado, BBP Executive Director.

Tickets are now available at https://ticket2me.net/ and priced at P1,500 (including one drink). Proceeds will benefit BBP’s programs, such as employment and pre-employment initiatives, expansion, and friendship programs across the country.

Hinged on the mission of uplifting the quality of life of persons with intellectual and development diversities in the Philippines, BBP supports individuals with IDD in securing rewarding jobs and eventually empowers them to become leaders and advocates.

BBP’s Pre-Employment Program, for instance, is part of its mission to implement Integrated Employment. With this multi-session program conducted to equip participants with the skills and confidence needed for job seeking, BBP offers training on upskilling and improving job readiness for individuals with IDD. 

BBP will also conduct an orientation and training for the staff of Hard Rock Café Manila’s, to remind them how to work and build a connection with employees with IDD, underscoring that their differences should not be regarded as disadvantages but as unique talents, an important mindset in leadership and employment.

Best Buddies International is a worldwide volunteer-based organization that changes the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental diversities. BBP launched its first friendship chapter in the Philippines in February 2014 with only two ambassadors. To date, it has  established 24 friendship chapters, created over 400 friendship matches, and touched the lives of almost 40,000 Filipinos regardless of ability. 

Through “Sounds for Change,” BBP and The Bistro Group acknowledge that music is a compelling medium for connecting and educating people, storytelling, healing, and bridging differences. It is also part of The Bistro Group’s 30th-year program and initiatives.

Be the first to secure tickets at https://ticket2me.net/ and help spread the good word about persons with IDD while fostering understanding, awareness, and inclusion.