Photo via Aegis Band (@aegisband.ph) / Instagram
OPM rock band Aegis is set to hold a Valentine’s concert on February 1 and 2 at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City. This concert, titled Halik sa Ulan: A Valentine Special, marks a significant milestone for the legendary band as they perform without Mercy Sunot, who tragically passed away in 2024.
Both the band and their fans will undoubtedly feel Mercy’s absence. Her sister, Juliet Sunot, shared the emotional toll the band has experienced since Mercy’s passing. The group, once a team of seven, now performs as six. Juliet explained, “It’s really hard for us because we were used to being together as seven. Now, we’re six. Before, we were deeply saddened by Mercy’s illness. Not many knew she was in the US for treatment… it was hard, especially for us because she was our sister.”
Juliet also reflected on the emotional impact of Mercy’s death. “When we found out she was gone, I couldn’t sing. But the audience helped us by singing along,” she recalled. Despite the grief, Juliet assured fans that Aegis will give their all during the concert in honor of Mercy’s legacy.
Juliet also revealed a special part of the concert dedicated to Mercy. “This is for Mercy. I know this was her dream—to continue performing. Before her surgery, she told me, ‘I want to come home. I want to join the concert.’ But she couldn’t. She wanted us to continue. We’ll keep going because that’s what she wanted,” she shared.
The band’s director, Frank Lloyd Mamaril, acknowledged the emotional challenges the members might face while performing. He reassured fans that the concert would still resonate deeply. “We’re carefully planning the repertoire. As a director, I know they might get emotional, so I need to be ready to support them. This concert is special because the band members are pouring their hearts into it,” he said.
Aegis’ Timeless Hits Take Centre Stage
Aegis, now composed of Juliet Sunot, Ken Sunot, Stella Pabico, Vilma Goloviongo, Weng Adriano, and Rey Abenoja, will perform timeless hits such as “Basang-Basa sa Ulan,” “Luha,” “Sayang na Sayang,” and more. These songs, synonymous with the group’s powerful presence in OPM rock, will undoubtedly stir emotions and nostalgia among long-time fans.
The concert will feature special guest performances by Ogie Alcasid, Morissette, Jona, Julie Anne San Jose, and other stars, adding another layer of excitement to the evening.
This Valentine’s concert will be a powerful display of the band’s resilience and dedication to their art and to Mercy’s memory. Despite their sorrow, Aegis is determined to deliver a performance to make their late sister proud. Juliet Sunot said, “We’re still here, carrying on because that’s what Mercy wanted. Aegis will continue.”
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