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University of the Philippines' Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral sa Komunikasyon (UP SAMASKOM) officially marks its 50th anniversary with the successful premiere night of the country's longest-running comedy musical variety show, LIVE A.I.D.S.: A Laugh Story.

It was held on Thursday, May 8, at the KAL Theater in the University of the Philippines-Diliman.

The monumental premiere night was attended by members of the press, alumni from the University of the Philippines and UP SAMASKOM, and theater fans. They enjoyed performances that showcased various aspects of Philippine pop culture, including television shows, online trends, and political themes.

This would be the 35th installment of the country's longest-running comedy musical variety show.

SOURCE: Michael Paunlagui

LIVE A.I.D.S.: A Laugh Story opened with a fantasy-filled performance of UP SAMASKOM's “Salamangka” followed by the informative, witty, and funny stint of Kaladkaren, who once joined UP SAMASKOM.

“This year's LIVE A.I.D.S. is extra special. Paano ba naman kasi, this is the 35th installment of LIVE A.I.D.S., the longest-running comedy musical variety show in the Philippines. Imagine, may tatlumpu't limang istorya na po ang dinebelop ng UP SAMASKOM,” said Kaladkaren.

SOURCE: Michael Paunlagui

Aside from the meaningful stints that reflect today's events, UP SAMASKOM also showed a performance of some of the tracks from their 50th anniversary album 'GOLD SAMASKOM.'

In a statement, LIVE A.I.D.S: A Laugh Story director explained that this year's installment will “show how humor can be a powerful tool for truth, and a powerful force for reflection and change.”

He said, "A Laugh Story brings together diverse tales and testimonies and tells stories of triumph and challenges with laughter and wit, mixing humor with heart. Behind every laugh, there's a story, and this show ensures that each story stands and speaks out against pressing social issues. We will show how humor can be a powerful tool for truth, and a powerful force for reflection and change.”

SOURCE: Michael Paunlagui

Meanwhile, LIVE A.I.D.S. Production Manager MJ Karaan said, “LIVE A.I.D.S. connects its story with its members, performers, and audiences, keeping the laughter of the organization alive.”

LIVE A.I.D.S: A Laugh Story runs from May 9 to 11, 2025, at the KAL Theater in the University of the Philippines-Diliman. Tickets are available via

MEANWHILE, CHECK OUT THIS GALLERY OF CELEBRITIES WHO STUDIED AT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES