How Ben&Ben’s music gave their ‘Liwanag’ a reason to hold on

For many artists, success is measured by the impact their creations have on their audiences.

And nobody experiences that impact more than the fans.

Take the Liwanag – the moniker for supporters of the indie folk-pop band Ben&Ben – who turned out for the group’s sold-out “Saranggola: The Concert,” which celebrated their music and 9th anniversary of friendship last October 2.

The concert featured more than 30 songs, including popular tracks such as “Leaves,” “Kathang Isip,” and “Sa Susunod Na Habang Buhay.”

Their performance of “Kapangyarihan” also gave goosebumps to the audience at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

It was these and other songs, fans told ABS-CBN News, that helped them through their difficult moments and became one of the reasons for them to hold on. 

Florence, who has been a fan of the band since 2018, shared how she connected with Ben&Ben not only because of their music but also because of the women members in the band who inspired her as a fellow musician.

She has nothing but thanks for the band’s deeply personal influence on her.

 “I came to a point in my life that I almost gave up, but that song ‘Di Ka Sayang’ really saved my life. It gave me the inspiration and the motivation to continue living,” Florence said.

“Ben&Ben, you don’t know how much you have been used to save my life and I’m just really grateful that God really allowed me to be in this position right now. It has been a beautiful journey and I’m excited for more beautiful things with all of you.”

For some, Ben&Ben may just be a band, but for the Liwanag, they have become part of their lives and their own journeys.

They also said that the band has been a blessing in their lives because they gave meaning to the lives of their fans.

“Thank you for bringing light to those who are oppressed, of course. It’s a very big part na, especially with what’s happening with the world, nakakapagbigay pa sila ng saya and joy to those who listen to them,” said Lari, a fan since the band’s early days when they were still having mall shows for Limasawa Street.

For fans Ali and Mary, the band’s songs also resonated with people through different experiences, including the changes that come with relationships and friendships.

“Their songs were so nice and very related sa mga tao, lalo na yung mga may pinagdadaanan. Lalo na po ‘yung sa ‘Saranggola.’ If someone na nag-ibang direksyon na as a friend, tinuturing pa rin po nila as a part of the group kahit nawala na po sa group nila ‘yung one friend nila,” they shared.

As the concert came to an end, the band gave a solo highlight to their drummer, Jam Villanueva, who was announced to be leaving the group after nine years. Among the reasons for her departure was the wrist injury she suffered in April 2025, which affected her ability to play and required an extended period of rest.

Villanueva also got married in 2024, which changed how she viewed her future and the path of her life. After years with the band, she decided to step down and recently played her final show with the group at their “Saranggola” concert.

Her departure saddened many of their fans, but they gave her their support and encouragement for her next journey in life. 

Meanwhile, the band will continue on their own path.

Ben&Ben also announced that they will continue “Saranggola: The Concert” in Cebu next year, although it has not yet been confirmed if Jam will be joining them.

For the Liwanag, the concert was more than just a celebration of Ben&Ben’s music. It was also a reminder of the memories, moments, and stories they built with the band, showing how music can occupy a special place in every person’s life journey. – with interviews by MJ Felipe, ABS-CBN News