Amid the influx of foreign artists who have been invading the country’s concert scene, the biggest names in the local music industry are joining forces for a one-night concert next month in a celebration of original Pilipino music (OPM).

The concert, dubbed as “Icons at the Arena: Masters of OPM,” will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on June 16 at 8 p.m.

It will also serve as the formal opening of the newly built SM MOA Arena, which already hosted the two-night concert of international artist Lady Gaga early this month, as well as the upcoming back-to-back concert of New Kids on the Block and the Backstreet Boys.

OPM stalwarts Lea Salonga, Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Jose Mari Chan, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Ogie Alcasid, Regine Velasquez, Basil Valdez, Freddie Aguilar, Christian Bautista, Erik Santos, Juris Fernandez, Jed Madela, Piolo Pascual, Bamboo, Arnel Pineda and The CompanY are slated to appear in the star-studded concert.

It will also feature special appearances from comedians Jose Manalo, Wally Bayola and Pokwang.

“Magsama-sama po ang mga OPM artists. Kami ni Jed, we will be representing the new icons. Iba-ibang genre ang maririnig niyo dito. Bihira po ako na makakasama ang mga legends sa music so I’m sure mage-enjoy lahat ng generation,” Fernandez said.

Madela added the concert will also pay tribute to Filipino composers Ryan Cayabyab and George Canseco.

Madela said the all-Filipino concert is timely given the number of foreign shows during the past couple of years.

“It’s one way para ma-push ang OPM so magandang na may mga concert tulad nito,” he said.

The concert will be hosted by Apo Hiking Society member Jim Paredes and Concert Queen Pops Fernandez.

Johnny Manahan will direct the show with Ryan Cayabyab as the musical director.

For ticket inquiries, you may call 470-2222 or log on to www.smtickets.com.