Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez has candidly admitted that performing on stage has recently become a struggle due to anxiety.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the veteran singer shared her experience following her special duet with Josh Groban during the Manila leg of the ‘Gems World Tour’ at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“It was wonderful and an honor to sing with Josh Groban last night (for the Gems World Tour in Manila) but I was so nervous,” she wrote.
Regine revealed that her anxiety was so overwhelming that she forgot to eat.
“I was so anxious the whole day I forgot to eat. Lately, every single performance for me is such a struggle even doing ASAP.”
@lionheartv Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid delivered a breathtaking surprise performance during Josh Groban’s concert tonight at the Mall of Asia Arena, as she took on the role of Christine from The Phantom of the Opera. Regine joined the international singer onstage for a powerful rendition of “All I Ask Of You,” one of the most iconic songs from the hit musical. Their duet captivated the crowd, earning a standing ovation from the live audience and becoming one of the most unforgettable highlights of the night. @Josh Groban @reginevalcasid #JoshGrobanInManila #RegineVelasquez #TiktokTainmentPH #EntertainmentNewsPH #JoshGroban
The singer admitted that performing used to bring her excitement and happiness.
“It used to excite me, a source of joy, but now it gives me so much anxiety. I still LOVE singing, I do, but performing on stage… maybe it’s part of getting old, I don’t know. But it’s kinda of heartbreaking.”
Regine was among the special guests at Groban’s Manila concert, alongside Martin Nievera and Julie Anne San Jose.
Fans quickly flooded social media with messages of reassurance.
One supporter wrote: “Chill ka lang ate sa pag-perform. No need to sing the birit songs. Basta pili ka ng songs na comfortable ka. Wala ka na dapat patunayan. Sana maibalik ‘yung enjoyment po sa pag-perform. We love you Queen!”
Another shared: “Ate Reg, please know that you don’t owe us perfection. You’ve already given us soooo much. We’re here for you in every season & we’re just grateful that you still choose to share your voice with us.”
Singer Erik Santos also penned a heartfelt message on Facebook, reminding her that her legacy “is not defined by a single high note or a perfect vocal day,” but by more than four decades of shaping Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
He added that her honesty about anxiety makes her “more than just an icon, it makes you human.”
Despite her struggles, Regine’s career remains active. Earlier this year, Star Music confirmed that she is set to release new songs in 2026.
In May 2024, Regine previously shared that she and husband Ogie Alcasid have openly discussed the reality that their voices may change over time — a possibility they both accept as part of aging.
For now, while stage anxiety may be testing one of the Philippines’ most celebrated vocalists, the overwhelming support from fans and fellow artists underscores a simple truth: Regine Velasquez remains deeply loved — not just for her voice, but for her vulnerability and resilience.
