From his meteoric rise as the grand champion of “Pinoy Pop Superstar” to earning global acclaim for his portrayal of Thuy in the international production of “Miss Saigon,” Gerald Santos — dubbed as the Philippines’ Prince of Ballad — has proven time and again that he is a force to be reckoned with.
As 2025 begins, he embarks on a new chapter, blending his powerful artistry with a bold message of bravery.
For starters, Santos launched his newest single, “Hubad,” composed by Feb Cabahug. It is a deeply personal and beautiful track that speaks to vulnerability and authenticity. The song title, which translates to “naked” in English, might raise eyebrows, but as Santos explains, the concept goes beyond the literal.
“At first, I was hesitant, thinking it might come across as a bit indecent. But when I listened to the demo and the song’s lyrics, I realized it wasn’t indecent at all. The song is very well-written, so I thought, why not?” Santos said in a press conference.
It was around October when Cabahug reached out to Santos through social media, offering him the song. Santos, captivated by its unique sound and meaningful lyrics, immediately saw its potential.
“I wanted to offer a new sound. I’ve been trying to reinvent myself, so I thought this song was perfect. She told me she’d just pay me to sing the song, but I said there was no need because I believed in the song. I found it so beautiful and saw its potential to become a hit. So, we collaborated and co-produced the song,” he added.
Apart from his latest single “Hubad,” Santos is also gearing up for his upcoming solo concert, “Courage,” on Jan. 24 at the SM North Edsa Skydome.
According to him, this concert promises to be a night of musical innovation and heartfelt purpose.
“I’ll be courageous with the song choices I’ll be singing. If ‘Hubad’ is unorthodox, there are many more unorthodox songs I’ll be performing that people don’t typically hear from me,” teased Santos.
Directed by Antonino Rommel Ramilo, the “Courage” concert will also feature special guests i Sheryn Regis, Erik Santos, Aliw Awards’ Best New Female Artist Elish, and P-Pop sensation Aster, plus other surprise performers.
Santos’ latest single and upcoming concert mark a bold new chapter in his career following a challenging 2024.
In August last year, Santos revealed that he had been harassed by a TV network’s musical director when he was 15 years old.
Now 33, Santos shared details of the 2005 incident during a Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media hearing, which is investigating sexual harassment in the entertainment industry. He explained that he remained silent for years out of fear of reprisal but eventually filed an internal complaint in 2010.
However, he said the complaint did not result in a clear resolution.
“Because of what I went through last year, many people say I was courageous and, at the same time, it felt like I was naked in public. When I shared what happened to me, I truly felt exposed to everyone. That’s why those two words — courage and exposed — perfectly define who I am now,” he added.
Which why beyond the music, “Courage” will serve as a platform for the Courage Movement. The movement aims to support victims of sexual abuse, harassment, and rape, inspired by his personal experiences and the bravery of those who came forward alongside him.
“This is to help victims of sexual abuse, harassment, and rape. I realized, especially when I came forward last year, how hard it is for victims. So, I want to offer help in every little way I can for those who have gone through the same,” Santos pointed out.
“It has already started, with people reaching out to us. Last year, Enzo Almario, who was also a victim of the same person, approached me, and that’s where Courage began,” he continued.
The movement has already begun to take root, with partnerships with the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO), PAVE Philippines, and other NGOs. The initiative aims to provide legal assistance, therapy, and psychological support to survivors.
“Eventually, we aim to establish our own legal team. That’s our goal, along with providing therapy — psychological therapy — for the victims. We want to strengthen this movement and create more avenues for victims to seek help,” revealed Santos.
Indeed, with all these endeavors from “Hubad,” “Courage,” and the Courage Movement, Santos redefines not just his artistry but his purpose.
Tickets for “Gerald Santos: Courage” are now available via smtickets.com, while “Hubad” is now available on Spotift, iTunes, Amazon Music and other major platforms.
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