MANILA – A benefit concert for the athletes of Special Olympics Pilipinas is set at the Hard Rock Café, Glorietta 3, Makati City on Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.
Organized by advocate Martin Lichauco, president of private equity firm Warburg Pincus Philippines, 100 percent of the net proceeds from the concert will go to Special Olympics Pilipinas programs.
The beneficiaries are persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who train weekly in sports, participate in inclusive health screenings, and build leadership and life skills through national and global platforms.
Lichauco said he shares a deep bond with these athletes, having volunteered and served with the movement.
“We don’t choose the cards we’re dealt in life, but we can choose how we play them. All they need is a chance – and when we give them that, we all win,” he told the Philippine News Agency.
This is the third time that Lichauco is staging a benefit concert.
The first was in 2021, when support was raised for displaced families amid the Taal volcano eruption.
The second, held on April 4, 2025, helped sustain the work of Special Olympics Pilipinas.
This third is actually Lichauco’s birthday concert.
“It’s my birthday, but it’s not about me. It’s about all of us showing up for those who need to be seen, heard, and embraced with dignity,” he said
This concert is open to everyone who wants to be part of a movement that celebrates inclusion, courage, and joy, he added.
Each ticket worth PHP2,999 will support one athlete for one year for his/her sports training, health access, and leadership workshops across the Philippines.
Tickets can be purchased via this link: https://tinyurl.com/hbdmartin2025.
Lichauco said attendees will see performances by Truefaith, Nextone, DJ Noel Salumbides, and Bigfoot. (PNA)
