LANY cancels concert in Cebu over venue safety issues

The second night of US-based pop-rock duo LANY’s concert in Cebu was canceled a few hours before the show on Thursday, Nov. 12, after organizers cited safety concerns at the venue.

In a statement posted on social media, Live Nation Philippines said the show was called off “due to significant safety issues regarding the roofing of the venue discovered after soundcheck.”

“We sincerely apologize for this unexpected development and for the disappointment and inconvenience this is to everyone who was looking forward to the show,” the statement added.

Ticket refunds will be processed through the venue’s ticketing portal.

Hundreds of fans were already at the venue when the announcement was made, with many expressing disappointment while chanting the band’s name.

“The kind of disappointment you didn’t expect. I bought this ticket way back in May, Now it’s postponed. I really hope they consider rescheduling,” said Dan Sy Lopez, who was among those set to watch the show.

The duo also reposted the statement on its official Instagram account, telling concertgoers that “your safety is our number 1 priority, we are so sorry.”

Vocalist Paul Klein separately posted to explain the situation.

“I was in the elevator of my hotel heading down to get in the car and go to the venue to play our show when I received the news about 4-foot steel debris falling from the roof of the venue,” he shared.

“I am super upset to not be playing our sold out show tonight and my heart breaks for everyone that took their time and spent their hard-earned money to be with us,” Klein also said.

The singer-songwriter added that he wouldn’t be able to live with himself if someone were seriously injured at one of their shows.

“Mahal Kita forever,” he added.

LANY successfully held the first night of its Cebu concert on Nov. 6 at the same venue, following sold-out shows over the weekend at the Philippine Arena.

Meanwhile, the Cebu City government has dispatched its Office of the Building Official to inspect the venue.

As of 12 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, neither the venue nor its mother company has issued a statement.