In the early days of February 1976, The Jackson 5, featuring the young prodigy Michael Jackson, set foot in the Philippines, igniting anticipation for what was to become a historic series of performances. This visit was not just another stop on their global tour; it was a landmark event that brought the fervor of American pop music to the heart of Manila.
The chosen venues for The Jackson 5’s performances were the Araneta Coliseum and the Folk Arts Theater. These locations were emblematic of the grand scale and significance of the event. The Araneta Coliseum, known for hosting high-profile sports and entertainment events, offered a vast space to accommodate the massive crowds eager to witness the spectacle. Meanwhile, the Folk Arts Theater, designed for cultural presentations, provided a more intimate setting, allowing fans to experience the music and charisma of The Jackson 5 up close.
The concert series, aptly named “Love Jive,” was a marathon of six electrifying shows that spanned a week. Each night, fans were treated to a dazzling display of The Jackson 5’s musical prowess, featuring a setlist packed with their chart-topping hits. From the opening notes of “I Want You Back” to the soulful rendition of “I’ll Be There,” the performances were a testament to the group’s talent and the magnetic presence of Michael Jackson as the lead vocalist.
The concerts were characterized by more than just the music; they were a full-fledged entertainment experience. The Jackson 5’s dynamic dance routines, coupled with their harmonious vocals, created an immersive show that was ahead of its time in the Philippines. The production values, including the staging, lighting, and costume design, contributed to an atmosphere of excitement and spectacle.
The Filipino audience’s reception of The Jackson 5 was nothing short of overwhelming. The warmth and enthusiasm that greeted the group each night underscored the Philippines’ rich musical culture and its people’s open-hearted embrace of international acts. The concerts saw fans of all ages coming together, united by their love for The Jackson 5’s music, creating an atmosphere of communal joy and appreciation.
Between concerts, the Jackson family had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Filipino culture. Their interactions with local fans and media, including a memorable appearance on the “Student Canteen” TV show, were moments of cultural exchange and personal connection. Michael was noted for his friendly and engaging demeanor, often leading the family’s interactions with the public.
The Jackson brothers were staying at the Manila Hilton Hotel. One of the employees recalled:
I was working in Manila Hilton in 1976 when the Jackson 5 stayed there for their concerts in the Philippines. They were nice boys, sometimes pranksters, but nothing nasty. Their father, Papa Joe was also a nice man. They took pictures and gave autographs to all.
During his journey, Michael encountered two celebrated Filipino actresses, Vilma Santos and Nora Aunor, who were prominently highlighted in local magazines. Vilma “Vi” Santos, who was an emerging actress at the time, is an avid admirer of Michael Jackson. She was present at one of his concerts at the Araneta Coliseum and had the opportunity to meet her idol during a magazine photoshoot.
