MANILA, Philippines -- The Filipino lead singer of the American rock band Journey serenaded President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo with the group's signature hit, "Open Arms," during a courtesy call at Malacańang on Friday.
Arnel Pineda, 41, sang a capella to the President, a "cabalen" or province mate from Pampanga, in the Palace Music Room, a Malacańang statement said.
Arroyo was "visibly happy" with the performance, said the statement, and told Pineda: "Welcome and congratulations for all your success.”
Pineda said he was at the Palace "to tell the President, that as a kababayan [countryman], I was able to make it worldwide, internationally."
The visit was closed to media coverage.
Pineda was with his fiancée, Cherry; their son, Cherub; his father Restituto; and brothers Roderick and Russmon.
Journey signed Pineda up after seeing one of his performances on the video sharing website YouTube.
His singing has been likened to original Journey front man, Steve Perry.
Pineda said the group would stage a concert in the Philippines in April 2009, according to the Palace statement.
He is on a break after playing 72 shows with the band since February this year.
