Apl.de.Ap with students from the Sisters of Mary Schools. CONTRIBUTED

LOS ANGELES – Grammy-winning artist and Black Eyed Peas co-founder Apl.de.Ap has teamed up with more than 3,000 students from the Sisters of Mary Schools in the Philippines on a special Christmas song titled “It’s That Time of Year.”

“At the heart of this project are the kids – their talent, their potential, and their future,” said Apl.de.Ap in a statement announcing the collaboration. “This song not only captures the spirit of Filipino Christmas but also gives these students a chance to see their creativity recognized on a global stage.”

This Apl.de.Ap Foundation International (APLFI) project also aims to raise funds for housing, meals and education for children in need.

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Produced by Apl.de.Ap and Keith Harris, alongside multi-platinum songwriter and producer David “DQ” Quinones, songwriter Johnny Black and recording engineer Edgar “Artek” Sinio, the song is a “seamless collaboration between world-class talent and aspiring young voices,” the Foundation said in a statement.

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“By blending voices from the Philippines with Filipino American talent, the project connects communities across oceans,” it added.

The students were involved in every step of the production process. By doing this, the Foundation has provided them with invaluable first-hand experience in the modern entertainment industry.

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The students were not just performing but also learning about the art of making music. “For them, this project is an opportunity to explore alternative ways of building a livelihood, including within the creative economy,” according to the Foundation.

Music video

On Dec. 12, the music video will premiere on One Down’s YouTube channel.

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The music video tells the story of a lola (grandmother) rediscovering holiday joy through an unexpected visit from young Filipino children at her doorstep.

One Down has rallied more than 100 Filipino-owned businesses across North America to support the initiative. Their participation demonstrates the incredible impact of a united global Filipino community, the Foundation said.

“This initiative represents the best of what we can do when the global Filipino community comes together: Empower the next generation, preserve our traditions and create sustainable opportunities for those in need,” said Leo Albea, CEO of One Down.

Audie Vergara, executive director of the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International, said the song has been envisioned to become a tradition that provides “both joy and lasting support for the Sisters of Mary Schools.”

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“Having a song with the potential to return every year is an invaluable asset,” he said.

How to help

It’s That Time of Year” is now streaming on Spotify and other platforms. The public can help by listening to the song, watching the upcoming music video or donating to the Sisters of Mary Schools. Donations can be made at www.thesistersofmaryschools.org/donate.

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