Regine not bowing out of showbiz after ‘FINALE’

Regine Velasquez is not retiring just yet. 

The actress and singer clarified that“FINALE” may be her last major solo concert in a large venue, but it does not signal her retirement from showbiz.

“I’m not totally retiring yet. I’m not retiring pa. As a matter of fact, I just recorded a new album,” Regine said.

The 56-year-old explained that while she has no plans to stop working altogether, she no longer intends to stage major concerts because of the physical, emotional, and mental demands involved.

“Hindi na lang ako gagawa ng big concert because I don’t think kaya ko pa. It’s too much work for me,” she said.

Regine also opened up about how aging has affected her physically and how challenging it has become to prepare for productions on such a large scale.

“Ang hirap kasi gumawa ng concert kapag ganitong age ka na. Just too demanding for someone like me who’s aging. And I can feel it. I’ve been saying this a long time ago. I don’t wanna be ridiculed about it anymore,” she said.

Regine has been preparing for the concert since January, spending time practicing her songs. She also began exercising in February.  Rehearsals have yet to begin but are expected to start in the coming days.

“Sumasakit na iyong ulo ko. I have been preparing since January. I’ve been practicing. Since February, I exercise, hindi lang kasingdalas. But it’s a big help,” she said.

Fans can also expect a different experience each night, as Regine revealed that the setlist will change throughout the three-show concert series.

“Ang ginawa namin, iba-ibang repertoire each night. So iba-iba. Syempre merong nakaposte, like the opening, pare-pareho iyon. Iyong pinaka-finale song, pareho. Pero ‘yung gitna, iba-iba ‘yung madidinig mo,” she said.

The changing setlists will allow her to perform a wider selection of songs from her 40-year career, including tracks she has recorded, popularized, and turned into signature songs. Each show will feature around 20 songs.

Rather than viewing “FINALE” as the end of her career, Regine is treating the concert series as a celebration of everything she has built over more than four decades in the industry and the journey she has shared with her fans.

“FINALE” runs from October 17 to 19 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with the October 18 show offering free admission as a gesture of gratitude to her supporters.