Ogie Alcasid believes his wife Regine Velasquez will continue to leave a mark on the Philippine music scene even as she plans to take a step back from doing big concerts.
PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) had the chance to interview Ogie after the LIYAB: Mga Himig ng Dakilang Pag-Ibig's matinee show.
What is Ogie's reaction after performing in Liyab? How do you feel right now?
"Mahirap ilagay sa isang pangungusap. Exhilaration. If there's such a word. Exhilarating! Sobrang saya. Sobrang proud.
"This concert is about love, and most specifically, love of country. It's a really great emotional journey for everybody."
What does he consider as the highlight of Liyab?
"I think the ending. The finale 'O Bayan Ko' with the national anthem, and, at the same time, 'Better World.'"
OGIE ALCASID ON WIFE REGINE VELASQUEZ'S LEGACY
Since Regine is holding her last big concert on October 17, 2026, what does he consider as the biggest contribution of his wife to the Philippine music industry?
Ogie pointed out: "Si Regine ay mahal ng mga Pilipino. Kasi ang naiambag niya sa larangan ng musika at sa larangan ng entertainment ay hindi natin matatawaran.
"It's something that is so appreciated by so many. What she has given is her heart, her passion, and her devotion to her work."
How would he describe his journey with Regine professionally and personally through the years?
"Professionally? Well, our marriage has been just full of support for each other.
"Of course, we also go with the ups and downs of life. Constantly, we try to be there for each other. So that's professionally and personally.
"At the same time, I'm happy that at this point in our lives, we are finding more meaning in what we do. We don't take it for granted. And we appreciate every bit of support that we get from our audience."
Regine mentioned in the past that her star has faded. Does he agree with that?
Ogie shook his head and said, "No. There's no such thing. She will forever be a shining star in our industry. And that will never ever be forgotten."
Why does he think her star won't ever fade?
"Because of what she's done and because of how she's remembered. And because of how much appreciation people have for her work and of her being Regine."
Read: Regine Velasquez talks about “retirement”; recalls hardships
LIYAB'S HIGHLIGHTS
Before Ogie performed his song number for the Liyab, he joked that he could not find his wife Regine among the audience members.
"Marami tayong ginagawa sa ngalan ng pag-ibig. We wait. We hope. We take chances.
"Some, if not all, of Mr. C's music has been the soundtrack of our lives. He somehow wrote the songs before we even knew we needed them. Isang karangalan ko na handugan kayong lahat at ng aking asawa, na hindi ko alam kung nasaan, ng awiting ito."
He then proceeded to sing "Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka."
Ogie joined Martin Nievera and other singers who paid tribute to National Artists.
National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab led this musical spectacle that took place on September 20, 2026, at The Theatre at Solaire.
The matinee show also featured performances from Bituin Escalante, Jed Madela, Gigi De Lana, Sofronio Vasquez, and Arman Ferrer.
Some of the National Artists who were honored that evening were: Fernando Poe Jr. (National Artist for Film), Nick Joaquin (National Artist for Literature), and Ricky Lee (National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts).
Read: Joey de Leon turns 80; Kapuso Mel Tiangco, Michael V. send love
COLLABORATIONS WITH OTHER ARTISTS
Personally, what does he consider as the highlight of working with Ryan Cayabyab
What are his favorite memories with him?
"There's so many. But we have done a series of concerts, na kaming dalawa lang. Those were the most memorable because it was just me and him. I think we have chemistry," he quipped.
Of all the artists he has collaborated with, who are his favorites?
Ogie candidly answered: "Of course, my favorite is my wife.
"But of late, I collaborated with Moira [Dela Torre] in a song that I wrote called 'Hanggang Dito Na Lang Ba Tayo?'
"And there's another one that I'm doing with Yeng Constantino, which is called 'Pahinga.'"
What does he consider his most personal songs? Of all the songs that he has written, what songs are closest to his heart?
"I would say, 'Kailangan Kita' and 'Ikaw Lang.'"
Why did he pick those?
"Well, those are songs for my wife," said the singer-songwriter with a smile.