Regine Velasquez could not help but become emotional after she was honored in this year’s Pinoy Playlist Music Festival (PPMF) held at the BGC Arts Center Aon Sunday, October 1.

In an Instagram post, the “Asia’s Songbird” expressed her heartfelt gratitude to organizers of the PPMF and all those who have been a part of her long journey as an artist.

“Oh my goodness akala ko mag-attend lang ako ng award tapos I’m nominated… I didn’t know it was a tribute and I was being honoured. As I am writing this naiiyak ako," she said.

“Parang hindi ako makapaniwalang binibigyan ako ng parangal ng mga taong hinahangan ko sa industriyang ito. Napakalaki ng naitulong ng industriyang ito sa buhay ko at ng pamilya ko. Sa lahat ng mga taong naging bahagi ng aking lakbay at patuloy na pag lalakbay sa mundo na kinabibilangan ko, maraming Salamat po!!!! To GOD be the glory,” she added.

The 53-year-old singer was one of the recipients of the Ryan Cayabyab Award this year, alongside musician Alfonso “Coke” Bolipata and musical director-slash-composer Mel Villena. 

Regine was honored on Sunday with special tribute performances by Ima Castro, Jed Madela, Jona, Katrina Velarde, Phi Palmos, Sweet Plantado-Tiongson, and Trina Belamide.

In a statement, the PPMF said, “Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, known as “Asia’s Songbird,” is an iconic figure in the Philippines, celebrated for her immense talent and contributions to OPM (Original Pilipino Music). With a remarkable career spanning the recording industry, concert stage, live theater, film, television, visual arts, and business, she has achieved extraordinary commercial and critical success.

It went on: “Recognized as a cultural ambassador of the Philippines, Regine has represented her country in various music festivals, state visits, and concert tours both domestically and internationally. She embodies the finest qualities of the Philippines and OPM, serving as a shining example of excellence. Beyond her artistic endeavors Regine has dedicated herself to philanthropy and charity work, significantly impacting the lives of Filipino youth. Her efforts have brought about positive changes and uplifted many individuals."

“In acknowledgement of her remarkable achievements and commitment to advocacy, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid has been honored with the prestigious Ryan Cayabyab Award for excellence in Philippine music by the Playlist Music Festival," it continued. 

The 2023 PPMF was held from September 29 to October 1, 2023.