OPM Acoustic Princess and Kapuso singer Princess Velasco is ending 2021 with a grateful heart, thanks to the release of her new single, “Ang Ating Pag-ibig,” which was written by her husband Mark Herbert Rosario in 2013 as a gift on their wedding day.
Princess felt the need that the message of the song “Ang Ating Pag-ibig” is worth sharing to the world, whether you’re a couple in love or an individual feeling the love from family and friends.
“The first and only time it was performed in public was during our wedding. It was his surprise to me. Una ko siyang narinig nung wedding reception namin. The song is not just about us. It’s about love. It’s about finding the person you’ve been praying for, waiting for, and the promise to stay with that person despite anything that the world or universe throws your way,” Princess shared.
Princess also explained that her contribution to the song is the second verse. It was her answer to her husband’s words and melody.
“Parang sinagot ko lang ang words niya. Before I presented it to GMA Music, I recorded it with my guitar and sent it to him and sobra siyang natuwa. I’m sure a lot of people can relate to it kasi ‘pag nahanap mo ang ganung klaseng pag-ibig and kapag pinakasalan mo ang tao na ‘yun and the commitment is there, you can weather any storm and I want to share that with others,” she exclaimed.
Filled with melodies of love, the song takes Princess back to her wedding day when she was standing by the church door ready to walk the aisle and marry her husband.
“Naalala ko ang moment na nasa labas ako ng pintuan ng simbahan tapos hindi ako makahinga and kinakabahan ako. Ganun ang nafi-feel ng bride, excited ka na kinakabahan na hindi mo maintindihan. It’s a day I will never forget. It’s one of the best days of my life. Hindi perfect ang marriage namin and I am really thankful to God na because of our love and our commitment, we now have three beautiful children,” beamed Princess who is a wonderful mother to Kobe, Milo, and Sari.
Hello, Princess. How have you been and hope all is well with you…
I just recently lost my father, who succumbed to his lung disease, so I am grieving. At the same time, I feel blessed to have been given the chance to release another song with GMA Music.
How has the pandemic affected your creativity as a songwriter and as a singer?
Being a mom of 3, I rarely have time to create, but I still make sure to find time to at least perform and sing even while here at home. The pandemic has helped me realize what the most important things are in our life – it is the people and our relationships with them are the most “essential.”
What convinced you that now’s the right time to release “Ang Ating Pag-ibig”?
Whenever I am given an opportunity to record and release a song, I always say yes immediately. So whatever the timing is, for me it’s always the right time.
How special is “Ang Ating Pag-ibig” for you? Do you have any tips or recipe to having a happy/successful marriage?
This is song is particularly special to me because my husband, Dr. Bistek Rosario wrote it. He surprised me during our wedding reception when he performed this song way back in 2013. The song was unfinished, and finally I was able to finish it this year. I am very excited to share “our song” to everyone.
We have been married for almost 8 years now, and have been blessed with 3 children. Marriage is a lifelong commitment and it takes work for both husband and wife. I am no relationship expert but what we value the most is open communication and trust. My husband is my best friend and I share everything with him. Also, despite having children, we make sure to spend with each other just the two of us. So find time to regularly “date” your spouse. [Smiles.]
Your fans want to know, is a new album also in the works? What’s next after “Ang Ating Pag-ibig”?
No plans for a full album yet, but hopefully I can try to write new songs and record them too. I am very grateful to GMA Music for giving me the chance to still be heard by my supporters.
Christmas is in the air. What does Christmas mean to you? What were your favorite Christmas songs growing up, and do you have any newer Christmas songs in heavy rotation?
Christmas has always been my favorite season of the year. Christmas for me means family, and sharing our blessings to others. Growing up, I remember my mommy playing the Jackson 5 Christmas album and the Pasko sa Pilipinas album on vinyl. She plays it early in the morning so it really puts all of us in a Christmas mood.
What movie, or song, always makes you happy and cry?
Pass muna, hindi ko maisip sa sobrang dami e. [Smiles.]
What are some goals you have – personally and professionally – for the New Year?
Personally – just to be a good wife and mom.
Professionally – to be able to write a new song this coming year.
Given the chance, what’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
Chill! Don’t be too angry and stressed all the time.
Finally, what are you most thankful/grateful for this year?
I am grateful for my family’s health. While I am heartbroken with my dear Daddy’s passing, I know that he is not hurting anymore, and that he will be in my heart forever.
“Ang Ating Pag-ibig” debuts at #3 on iTunes PH and is now available on Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, and other digital stores worldwide.
