World-renowned musician and activist Manu Chao is set to perform in the Philippines for the first time, bringing his Ultra Acoustic Sets to Manila and El Nido, Palawan. These exclusive performances, presented by The Pangolin Sound Project, will take place on March 21 at Samsung Hall, SM Aura in Manila, and March 28 at Kalye Artisano in El Nido.
A Legendary Artist with a Unique Sound and Message
Born José-Manuel Tomás Arturo Chao Ortega in Paris to Spanish parents, Manu Chao emerged in the late 1980s with Mano Negra, a pioneering band that blended punk, reggae, ska, and Latin rhythms. His solo career took off with the 1998 album Clandestino, a landmark record that established his signature mix of multilingual lyrics and global sounds. Over the years, he has released critically acclaimed albums such as Próxima Estación: Esperanza and La Radiolina, which continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Beyond music, Manu Chao is a dedicated activist, supporting social movements, indigenous communities, and environmental causes. His songs often address themes of immigration, inequality, and resistance, making him a voice for the marginalized. His upcoming concerts in the Philippines are not just about music—they carry a powerful message of conservation and community empowerment.
A Concert with a Cause: Raising Awareness for the Palawan Pangolin
Organized by The Pangolin Sound Project, this tour combines music and environmental advocacy, using live performances as a platform to highlight urgent conservation efforts. Manu Chao’s participation reinforces the project’s mission to engage audiences while drawing attention to the plight of endangered species and fragile ecosystems.
In collaboration with SM Supermalls and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), this event will shed light on the Palawan pangolin (Manis culionensis)—a critically endangered species endemic to the Philippines. Often referred to as a natural pest controller, this elusive creature is under severe threat due to poaching and habitat loss. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), in partnership with local organizations, has been leading conservation initiatives to protect the species, with The Pangolin Sound Project amplifying these efforts through music and storytelling.
By aligning with The Save from Extinction campaign, this event not only brings world-class music to the Philippines but also strengthens collective efforts to safeguard biodiversity through education, art, and collaboration.
Cultural Exchange and Community Engagement
As part of the concert activities, the Embassy of Spain and Instituto Cervantes have organized a special visit by Manu Chao to Barangay Tejeros in Manila. This community recently underwent a vibrant artistic transformation with a large-scale mural by Spanish collective Boa Mistura, featuring the word ‘Unyon’ (meaning ‘Union’).
During his visit, Manu Chao will perform an intimate acoustic session for the residents, celebrating the power of music and art to connect people across cultures. This initiative underscores the ongoing collaboration between Spanish institutions and Filipino communities, reinforcing the importance of cultural exchange and social impact.
A Unique Open-Air Experience in El Nido
The El Nido concert at Kalye Artisano will offer a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience, celebrating Filipino culture, sustainability, and craftsmanship in a breathtaking outdoor setting. The event will also feature special performances by DJ Cous Cous and Mike the Wolf, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Get Your Tickets Now
- Manila – Available now through SM Tickets: https://smtickets.com/events/view/14260
- El Nido – Available now through Ticketmelon: https://www.ticketmelon.com/thepangolinsoundproject/manu-chao-in-el-nido
Event Partners & Sponsors
This event is made possible by the generous support of:
- Embassy of Spain in the Philippines
- Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia
- Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
- Lio Estate
- SM Supermalls
- Instituto Cervantes
- Alliance Française de Manille
- The Pangolin El Nido
- Cebu Pacific Air
