The stars of Sparkle GMA Artist Center are once again going global as the Sparkle World Tour returns in full force this 2025, with a renewed mission to bring joy and a sense of home to Filipinos living abroad.
At a media conference held on July 31 in Quezon City, veteran comedienne Aiai delas Alas and actor Ruru Madrid shared the emotional weight of performing for kababayans overseas, especially those who have been away from the Philippines for years.
“Especially during Christmas, you see Filipinos tearing up while you sing a Christmas song,” Aiai recalled. “It’s really touching. I love that feeling of being able to reach them even from far away.”
She noted how Filipino fans abroad rarely get to see local artists in person, unlike in the Philippines, where celebrities are often spotted at malls or public events.
“They don’t see you every day. There’s a different kind of impact when you can hug and shake hands with them in person,” she said, adding that being able to represent the country abroad is something she takes to heart.
For Aiai, the Sparkle World Tour is also GMA Network’s way of giving back to its global audience.
“This is also a way for GMA—not just GMA Pinoy TV but the entire GMA Network—to thank those who, even after 75 years, continue watching from abroad. Now we’re bringing happiness to them so they won’t miss their families, whom they haven’t seen in a long time.”
For Ruru Madrid, this year’s stop in Canada marks his third Sparkle World Tour, having joined previous international legs.
“It feels great because we want to show them that they’re not forgotten. They’re also the ones who inspire us to keep working hard,” he said.
Fresh off winning Best Supporting Actor at The 8th EDDYS, Ruru expressed his excitement to perform again for overseas fans.
“The energy they give back to us is incredible. When you return to the Philippines, you feel recharged and ready to work again.”
Aiai also credited her organic, gluten-free diet and regular workout routine for keeping her strong on tour.
“I’m stronger now. The things I couldn’t do in my 30s, I can do [them] now,” she said with a laugh.
The Sparkle World Tour 2025 kicks off its Canadian leg with back-to-back shows:
- Toronto, Canada – Aug. 16 to 17, 2025 at Bathurst St. & Wilson Ave., in partnership with Taste of Manila, the largest street festival outside the Philippines.
- Calgary, Canada – Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, 2025 at Eau Claire Park, in partnership with Fiesta Filipino, Alberta’s largest Filipino cultural festival.
Toronto audiences can expect an electrifying cultural showcase headlined by Aiai, Ruru, Kyline Alcantara, and Jessica Villarubin, while Calgary will feature equally grand performances from Aiai, Ruru, and Kyline. In November, the Canada tour continues with Pepita Curtis, Divine Tetay, and Boobay taking center stage.
Produced by Sparkle GMA Artist Center with Taste of Manila and Fiesta Filipino, the tour is supported by Phirst Park Homes and Philippine Airlines, in partnership with GMA Pinoy TV.
