HKCS and Global Champions lit up ASAP 30 in Vancouver

By Rosette Correa

In a stirring show of cultural pride and international flair, the youth choir Himig Kabataan Cultural Society (HKCS) stepped into the spotlight as the backup ensemble for the “Global Champions” presentation at ASAP 30 Vancouver on October 18, 2025. The event, held at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, marked a major milestone in the Filipino variety show’s 30-year legacy and brought together some of the Philippines’ most beloved stars.

Music legends Martin Nievera, David Pomeranz,  Regine VelasquezAlcasid, Ogie Alcasid, Angeline Quinto, Darren Espanto, Yeng Constantino, and Zsa Zsa Padilla graced the stage with show-stopping performances that drew cheers from the crowd.

Joining them were some of today’s biggest stars— , Piolo Pascual, Inigo Pascual, Vhong Navarro, Paulo Avelino, Shaina Magdayao, Joshua Garcia, and Daniel Padilla, along with Gen Z favorites Alexa Ilacad, Belle Mariano, Francine Diaz, Edward Barber, Fyang Smith, JM Ibarra, Jarren Garcia, KD Estrada, Loisa Andalio, and Seth Fedelin.

The HKCS choir lent its vibrant, layered voices to the segment honouring the “Global Champions” — a select set of performers celebrated for their international acclaim and impact. With HKCS harmonising behind them, the moment magnified the sense of global Filipino artistry. Global Champions Angeline Quinto, Yeng Constantino, Bev Saraza, Raymond Salgado, Argel, Jona, Teresa Puri, Argel MDR, Sofronio Vasquez, Robi, Erik Santos, Edel Quibol, and Klarisse with the set summed up by Regine Velasquez. 

HKCS Executive Director Bea Correa noted that the choir “was honoured to support an event that not only showcases Filipino talent abroad but also connects diaspora communities through song.” 

Also participating was HKCS Indak, the dance crew of the collective, who danced with GForce. JJ Boyles, choreographer and HKCS Indak lead, said the whole experience was exhausting but was well worth the effort. “We are truly grateful to have been part of the show.” Boyles even choreographed portions of Darren’s dance number. 

Audience reaction was enthusiastic, with many in attendance commenting on how the choral backing added a rich and textured layer to the live-show format. The combination of top-tier solo stars and a dynamic youth choir from British Columbia created a memorable tableau of Filipino pride in front of a global crowd. HKCS, Raymond Salgado and Argel MDR represented British Columbia in the show and was indeed a proud moment.

“For us, being part of this moment means more than just performing,” said Matthew Perez,  HKCS musical director. “It’s about representing our roots here in Canada, and contributing to the brilliance of Filipino music on an international platform.” The group trained for a few hours with The CompanY lead and voice coach Annie Quintos Uy who was very impressed with the young choir, and will share the footage with musical producers in Manila. Regine Velasquez also commented on HKCS choral performance and backup singing for her, saying how good the sound and how professional they were despite their youth. 

As the Las Vegas-style production rolled on, fans and community members alike celebrated not only the stars on stage but also the collaborative spirit of Filipino-Canadian musicians and performers. With the Global Champions presentation and HKCS’s role in support, the Vancouver edition of ASAP30 delivered a night of cultural resonance and entertainment magic.