Olivia Rodrigo has created an indelible mark on her fans’ hearts as well as the country’s with her first-ever visit to the Philippines. This is as the pop singer, popularly known for her powerful voice and linkage to her Filipino heritage, arrived in style at NAIA last October 3, 2024, for the highly anticipated Philippine leg of her “GUTS” World Tour.
What made her arrival more special was the warm welcome she got; the staff at the airport came to her in purple tuxedos, which referenced Olivia’s signature color seen often in album themes and in her fashion. All this thoughtfulness added that extra layer because it would be the very first time she ever came to the country in all her life. The purple tuxedos represented not only her brand but also the strange cultural mix between her and her Filipino fans so peculiarly, paying homage to her roots in a manner quite unforgettable.
Olivia didn’t let that stop her; when she was off duty, she made the most of her moments in the Philippines by embracing the culture. In the historic district of Intramuros-hardly an enclave of a walled city teeming with history and culture-she was spotted out taking some time to walk around. Joined by her partner, British actor Louis Partridge, the two were seen taking in the beautiful Spanish-era architecture that proves a vital jigsaw piece of Filipino history.
JUST IN: Olivia Rodrigo spotted biking around Intramuros! 🥰
— Mega Kapamilya (@MegaKapamilya) October 4, 2024
#MegaKapamilya #OliviaRodrigo @oliviarodrigo pic.twitter.com/xjBLhFgHmw
More than the sightseeing, however, Olivia tried some real Filipino food to her heart’s content and shared her experience in trying the halo-halo, a favorite Filipino dessert made with a colorful medley of crushed ice, sweetened fruits, and milk. The star shared her excitement with fans through her social media and captured her Filipino audience’s hearts even more by showing her appreciation for the local delicacies.
Of course, the highpoint of her visit must have been the fully packed concert at the very iconic Philippine Arena last October 5, 2024, as part of her “Silver Star Show.” Eager beavers snatched tickets, many of the fans excited to get a glimpse of Olivia performing in the country of their heritage. energy in the concert audience was electric as her fans sang along to every word, and it set itself up as one centerpiece of music, culture, and connection.
Olivia Rodrigo meetings fans at Olivia Young. pic.twitter.com/yDoG8YiBQK
— Rodrigo Times (@RodrigoTimes) October 4, 2024
The visit, however, wasn’t all about performing. The tour also had a philanthropist message across. Proceeds from her Philippine concert went to her charitable organization, Fund 4 Good, which focuses on critical issues such as girls’ education, reproductive rights, and the prevention of gender-based violence. Her application of her commitment to using her platform for the good of positive effect struck a note with her audience, most of whom were inspired by her not just as an artist, but also as an advocate.
