A heartwarming collaboration between the multi-platinum hip-hop/pop group Black Eyed Peas and 3,000 Catholic school children from impoverished families in the Philippines has resulted in a new Christmas song titled "It's That Time Of Year." The song, which features a jazzy Christmas lullaby performed by the students, was released online on December 13, with the audio version hitting the airwaves on November 29. This initiative aims to raise funds and awareness for the educational programs of the Sisters of Mary Schools, founded by Father Aloysius Schwartz in 1985.

The Making of a Musical Miracle

The creation of "It's That Time Of Year" involved students from the Sisters of Mary Schools in Cavite, located just outside Manila. The seventh to 12th-grade students, known for their exceptional academic performance, sang the song under the guidance of Black Eyed Peas member Apl.de.Ap, producer Keith Harris, and songwriter David "DQ" Quiñones. Apl, who is of Filipino and African American descent, was inspired to create the song after visiting the school earlier this year. The children's performances, captured in a synchronized video, showcase their talent and dedication, bringing a sense of joy and hope to viewers worldwide.

The song's production was a collaborative effort, with Apl.de.Ap, Keith Harris, and David "DQ" Quiñones working closely with the students. The lyrics and melody were carefully crafted to resonate with the spirit of Christmas, while the handbells played by the children add a unique and enchanting touch. Apl, who splits his time between Los Angeles and the Philippines, expressed his deep connection to the project, emphasizing the importance of providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children. The video, released on December 13, not only highlights the musical talents of the students but also showcases the supportive environment provided by the Sisters of Mary Schools.

The Impact and Future of the Project

The release of "It's That Time Of Year" has generated significant interest and support for the Sisters of Mary Schools. The schools, which serve deeply impoverished children from subsistence farming and fishing communities, offer a comprehensive educational program that includes free food, clothing, shelter, and medical services. The goal is to equip students with practical skills in fields such as automotive work, technical drafting, and bookkeeping, enabling them to support their families upon graduation. Sister Mylene Arambulo, the principal of the Sisters of Mary girls' school in Cavite, emphasized the holistic approach taken by the institution to ensure the well-being of its students.

The song's royalties will be split evenly between its producers, Apl's APLFI foundation, and the Sisters of Mary Schools. This financial support is crucial for sustaining the educational programs and ensuring that more children can benefit from the school's offerings. Carla Barretto, the volunteer project coordinator of the Fr. Al’s Children Foundation, noted that the collaboration with Apl.de.Ap has brought much-needed attention to the schools, particularly among younger audiences. The hope is that the song will become a staple on Christmas playlists, generating ongoing support for the students. Sister Teresita Sumalabe, the treasurer of the APLFI foundation, highlighted the students' enthusiasm and joy in participating in the project, emphasizing that their primary motivation is to spread happiness through their music.