09/27/2026
Last night at Lola Happy Bistro was more than a concert. It was a reminder of what happens when talent, fairness, community, and purpose meet in the same room. 🇵🇭❤️ The energy was incredible. The house was on its feet, people were singing, dancing, laughing, and simply having a good time.
Our producers Elvis Lansangan Kristin Lansangan are family-owned, and collaborating with them was such a gift. They were professional, poised, fair, and grounded. Their goal was not to profit from our community, but to bring something joyful and special to National City. No unnecessary excess, no price gouging, no endless lineup of opening acts. Just a shared dream, thoughtful production, and fairness all the way.
And then there was Jay R. We have been fortunate to welcome many talented artists into our house, but JayR is truly one of a kind. His talent is undeniable, but what sets him apart is his discipline, humility, and intention. He understands the power of his platform and uses it with care. He took time with people throughout the room, took what felt like a selfie with everyone in the house, and brought the entire crowd to its feet. He makes his own merchandise by hand. He is deeply involved in his own artistry and brand. No excessive entourage. No unnecessary demands. Just extraordinary talent, hard work, and kindness. Meeting his mother and sister made it easy to understand where some of that comes from. They were warm, strong, encouraging women who immediately felt like family. True girls’ girls.
And then we looked at our Lola team. Our kitchen and front-of-house staff are immigrants from the Philippines who show up every day with grit, tenacity, hospitality, and heart. What a privilege it is to be surrounded by the Filipino-American dream in motion.
Everything about last night was intentional. We want Lola to remain a community home where talented artists are accessible, producers are fair, staff are hardworking, and people feel welcome. Kapwa reminds us of our shared humanity. Tadhana reminds us that some people are meant to find one another. Last night felt like both.
In a complicated world, simplicity, fairness, excellence, and kindness are still alive. You just have to find your people.
God is always good 🇵🇭❤️ (and so is Duck Tape 🤣)
