The country’s top voices sing the Heart of the Filipino

Philippine Airlines, in celebration of its 75th Anniversary, has brought together the country’s top musical performers to sing PAL’s new theme song, “The Heart of the Filipino. ”

The Heart of the Filipino, the core of Philippine Airlines’ 75th Anniversary campaign, honors the PAL people, and their warmth and readiness to serve.

The music greats who sang the new song of PAL are Broadway artist Lea Salonga, Pinoy pop princess Sarah Geronimo and Pinoy rock icon, singer songwriter Bamboo. In a quick interview, the artists discuss what the Heart of the Filipino means to them.

Could you share with us your most memorable flights onboard PAL?

Lea: The most memorable flight for me was the very first one. You never forget your first. It was a PAL flight from Manila to Honolulu in 1981. I had never been on a plane before, so climbing the stairs from the tarmac to the aircraft, finding my seat, and hearing the roar of the engine at take-off was all so exciting.

Sarah: It was when I first rode an airplane. I’m not sure if I went to Cebu or Davao but it was a domestic flight. Also, the first time we went to the United States.

Bamboo: Once you step onboard, just the warm smiles and hellos from all our ‘kababayans’ (countrymen) on the flight. It’s the bridge home. You know you’re just a hop, skip, and a 12-hour flight away if you’re coming back from San Francisco, California, like me.

How has PAL given you the chance to share your talent overseas?

Lea: Just the fact that PAL flies to just about every city I perform in makes me so happy. I spend plenty of time in Los Angeles and New York. When PAL announced that they would be flying to New York I was ecstatic. And that they fly to London is also fantastic.

Sarah: It excites me every time we fly overseas for a concert tour especially if it’s with PAL. We’re always taken care of and you’re with your fellow Filipinos. The essence of being a Filipino entertainer is when you represent the country with each performance.

Bamboo: The best thing with PAL these days is all the direct flights. It just makes flying to whatever gig I got a lot easier to adjust to whatever time difference I have to battle with-performing with jet lag is tough.

While you have already worked together before, you each have distinct styles: Bamboo with a background in the rock genre, Sarah Geronimo with pop and Lea Salonga having performed on Broadway. Was it a bit challenging to mesh all these experiences and styles together?

Lea: Surprisingly, it was very easy to mesh our styles, despite how disparate they seem to be. We can all sing pop and rock music, and the Broadway stuff is more contemporary than anything. It all works out.

Sarah: We have a great working relationship; it’s always fun and challenging at the same time. Bamboo and Ms. Lea are music icons of our country and yet there’s always mutual respect for each other.

Bamboo: Not really. I think all three of us carry the experience to adjust to each other. So that same chemistry that works on those big red chairs (The Voice Philippines singing show) works on a record as well.

What are you most proud of about the Philippines?

Lea: Our hospitality, the warmth of our people, our big hearts and our resilience.

Sarah: Aside from being proud of how beautiful our country is, it’s our values that make me even prouder to be a Filipino. Our positive attitude and courage through adversities and our strong faith in God.

Bamboo: I can’t say it enough-it’s our people.

What does “The Heart of the Filipino” mean to you?

Lea: It’s a generous heart, forgiving to a fault and hospitable.

Sarah: A heart that always perseveres, helps, and loves God.

Bamboo: It’s our resilient spirit. It’s our pulse, our happy heart that beats as one.

Do you think PAL embodies the Heart of the Filipino? If yes, in what way?

Lea: Oh yes it most certainly does. I instantly feel so welcomed the moment I get on the plane. So many smiles!

Sarah: Definitely. PAL has always been sincere in giving true service to its fellow Filipino and foreign customers worldwide.

Bamboo: To us Filipinos, there’s no other airline but Philippine Airlines.

What is your message for PAL on its 75th Anniversary?

Lea: For the hospitality, generosity of spirit, and the best landings of any carrier on earth, thank you! Happy Anniversary!!!

Sarah: I am grateful and honored to be part of the PAL family. Congratulations for celebrating your 75th anniversary as one solid family. And thank you for staying true and committed to giving your customers the best service.

Bamboo: I just want to congratulate PAL for its 75 years, so Happy Birthday to us. Every plane needs an engine and a beating heart. Thanks to all the hardworking people that keep us safe, comfortable, and happy-from the pilots, flight attendants down to the ground crew.