Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival 2012

  

Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival is a must-see, hear and feel for music aficionados all over the country and I was fortunate to be part of the second Malasimbo Festival last March 2-4, 2012. In one word, I had to say that my Malasimbo experience was surreal—not a word that I have been using lately.

All in all, Malasimbo 2012 had the right mix of everything—positive vibes, steady people, good music from local and foreign musicians, proudly Pinoy artists, and the magic of nature. Aside from the rain during day three, I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.  

 

Nature was a big part of the festival as it was held on a mountain called Malasimbo in Puerto Galera, Mindoro. The stage was set at a lower ground to create a natural amphitheater.

I had to give it to the sound engineers and the bands for giving us top quality music and performances. 
 

Joey Ayala's performance was awesome

Deoro with Waway Saway

Paul Zialcita

Tao Aves was one of my top two picks during the festival. It was the first time I heard her voice and it was very powerful and distinctively Pinoy. I learned that she is the daughter of Grace Nono. My other pick was The Skarm, a  Filipino Hip-hop group. I was  surprised because I don’t usually like hip-hop and rap music, but they just got me. Unlike the usual register of Hip-hop/ rap to me, theirs was easy on the ears—very smooth, clean and captivating.

Where we got our P50 Manila Beer (the brand). Yes, we were drinking Manila Beer in Galera—sadly, it was the only brand available.

Much thanks and appreciation to the Malasimbo Festival organizers and crew; Mt. Malasimbo owner, Mr. d'Aboville; engaging and skillful host, Sarah Meier—really glad she took over even for day two only; bands and artists for creating a life-changing event for me that I will—for sure—always remember. I am eagerly looking forward to Malasimbo 2013.

Ang mga artists

Giant tutubi 

 

Photos by Peter Tom Tolibas (More of Peter's work; visit his website,  twitter, tumblr, or flickr) and Paulo Subido.

If you are contemplating if you should go to Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival 2013, I'll say, "Go! Fly! And enjoy!"

What to bring for Malasimbo 2013

1. Comfortable clothes and footwear - apt to wear in the mountains; no heels please
2. Jacket or sweater
3. Rain gear—in case it rains—like umbrella and raincoat   
4. Banigs or mats
5. Blankets or sarongs
6. Tissue or wet-ones
7. Lots drinking water
8. Vitamin C
9. Alcohol (not the one for drinking) and insect repellent
10. People you love. Wee! Because Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival is worth sharing with the people you love.