Concert director Paolo Valenciano publicly acknowledged that he failed to keep the program in order during a music festival on December 6, saying the show extended by two more hours after unexpected developments.
Instead of a smooth program, he said the event descended into confusion when adjustments to the performance sequence were introduced at the last minute. The festival, JBL Sound Fest, featured major OPM names including Rico Blanco, Cup of Joe, December Avenue, Flow G, and Ashtine Olviga.
In his Facebook post, Valenciano wrote candidly that he could no longer manage what was happening backstage when the schedule shifted. He said the change pushed one act to rush to the venue from another location, which he explained in detail: “[They] had to be picked up by motorcycles in traffic jams just to make their new call time.”
Online discussions pointed to claims that the group of former Rivermaya member Rico Blanco allegedly requested to close the show, a slot originally assigned to Cup of Joe. According to posts circulating among fans, the band hurried to the venue after being informed they would perform earlier than planned.
The adjustment triggered delays across production, caused long waiting periods for the audience unaware of the backstage issues, and placed extra strain on the crew who had been preparing for hours.
Valenciano apologized and reflected on the incident, saying it served as a significant lesson in his work as a director. “We learn new things every day and I know I still have a lot to improve! To everyone who was there, super sorry,” he said.
He also addressed Rico Blanco directly, calling him “my hero,” but later added a pointed remark: “While I sincerely wish you the best, I’ve learned that we’re simply not meant to work together again.”
Discussions about the dispute continue on social media as fans wait to see whether Rico Blanco’s camp will issue a response.
