Mandaluyong City, May 9, 2025 — Over 500 youth and human rights advocates gathered at 123 Block in Mandaluyong for the “Doseng KarapatDapat: Grand Gathering for Human Rights”—a culmination concert that marked the peak of a months-long campaign promoting a 12-point human rights agenda for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.


Organized by the Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA), the event was held in partnership with Dakila, Active Vista, Alyansa Tigil Mina, CEED, PMCJ, Greenpeace, and Funkybeat Entertainment. The gathering aimed to energize public support for rights-based governance and inspire young voters to demand accountability, equity, and dignity in leadership.


The evening opened with powerful messages from youth leaders and PAHRA representatives, calling on the next generation to rise as defenders of freedom, justice, and democracy. The concert featured dynamic performances from bands Authtelic, Kenaniah, Broki, Alyson, Ja Kintana, The Ridleys, Zone 1, Soulful, and Uncle Bob’s Funky Seven Club—all of whom used their music to highlight urgent social and environmental issues.


Throughout the program, each point of the Doseng KarapatDapat Human Rights Agenda was creatively presented through a mix of live music, spoken word, and short videos. These “Agenda Spotlights” made complex policy demands accessible and empowering, particularly for first-time voters.


A major highlight of the night was the Commitment Ceremony, where several local election candidates and organizational leaders took the stage to publicly pledge their support for the 12-point platform. The segment drew cheers from the crowd, reinforcing the call to place human rights at the center of political campaigns.


Youth voters also engaged with on-site booths hosted by partner civil society organizations offering voter education materials, interactive games, and activities. Meanwhile, the event’s livestream on PAHRA’s Facebook page allowed a broader audience to participate through real-time polls, Q&A sessions, and community shout-outs.


“We came here not just to watch a concert, but to be part of a movement,” said Aya Santos, a student leader from Quezon City. “This night showed us that music can be a tool for change, and that our vote can be our voice.”


As the 2025 elections approach, PAHRA and its partners hope the energy and solidarity displayed at the Grand Gathering will ripple across the country—mobilizing voters, pressuring candidates, and building momentum toward a future where every Filipino enjoys a ligtas, sapat, at patas na buhay.