MANILA -- To many of those who were involved, there was a real sense of pride in performing in front of thousands as part of the opening ceremony for the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

But to Elmo Magalona, he was not just trying to do his bit in the amazing showcase of Filipino culture for our neighboring countries --he was also singing for his dad, OPM icon Francis Magalona.

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A post shared by Poquito (@elmomagalona) on Nov 30, 2019 at 5:59am PST

In an interview with The Philippine Star, Elmo said: "Every time I do my dad's songs, I try to let my performance be heard by my dad and no one else and hopefully he could hear what I'm saying."

He was talking about the positive reception his rap performance of "Man from Manila" received.

The tribute part to Francis M also featured "Mga Kababayan" and "Tayo'y mga Pinoy," as sung by Iñigo Pascual and KZ Tandingan.

According to Elmo, he was ecstatic to have gotten the offer to not only sing in the opening ceremony, but also to pay homage to his father. "My initial reaction was 'wow,'" he admitted.

"A national event where almost every Filipino is participating and is anticipating for, and I get to pay tribute to my father? I thought this is going to be massive and exciting," he added.

The opening ceremony was directed and conceptualized by award-winning playwright Floy Quintos, who said that he wanted to show the beauty of a "united" Filipinos.

It also featured singers Christian Bautista, apl.de.ap, the TNT Boys, Lani Misalucha, Robert Seña, Anna Fegi, and Aicelle Santos.

Among those impressed by it was Pia Magalona, the wife of Francis M, who told their son Elmo: "So very proud of you for having been part of this monumental event."

"Finally, it's moments like this that remind us to please to listen to Francis M! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!"