For many Filipinos, Manila Sound never really disappeared. Its songs continue to surface at family gatherings, karaoke sessions, and celebrations, decades after the genre first dominated local radio.

Friday, Sept. 25, was gala night for “Bongga Ka ‘Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical,” starring Atasha Muhlach — unica hija of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales — in her first lead role in a major ...