Change, say the organizers, can be as modest but life-changing as Efren’s invention of a kariton classroom. Or as large-scale and demanding as organizing sustained public response to the Maguindanao massacre. Or as provisional as creating alliances. Or as as all-consuming as insisting on good governance.

The cry is Tayo ang taumbayan! Tayo ang pagbabago! Rallying around the now iconic image of Efren’s kariton, the participants are enjoined to bring three things: their own photograph to include in a democracy wall; a gift for exchanging with another, unknown participant; and a school-supplies contribution to the kariton classroom of Efren. These acts that create humane relations are the Filipino’s symbolic gestures against the inhumanities visited upon the nation by an anti-people politics. With these symbolic gifts, the rallyists will express a faith in the collective capacity of Filipinos to lead their leaders.

Konsyerto para sa Pagbabago marks a shift from a leader-oriented to a people-centered political life. It will express outrage over the Maguindanao massacre, rejection of martial law in Maguindanao, the killing of journalists, and all efforts to thwart democratic institutions. With regard to these appalling issues, Filipino leaders should move in tune with the citizenry’s sentiments.

The artists performing at the concert are Spongecola; Moonstar88; Session Road; Jim Paredes; Boboy Garrovillo; Cooky Chua & Color it Red; Noel Cabangon; Rey Valera; Juana Change; Drae Ybanez; Peryodiko; Miko Pepito; Kadangyan; Paul Zialcita & the Aquadrummerz; and more surprise guests! Together, the performers combine hopefulness with a critical imagination.