SOCIAL MEDIA

HOPE’s Generation HOPE Campaign Wins Global Awards for Education Advocacy

Tuesday, May 19, 2026


At a time when many Filipinos are looking for meaningful ways to give back, HOPE has proven that even everyday purchases can help create long-term change.

The pioneering impact organization and the Philippines’ first Certified B Corp has earned international recognition for its “Generation HOPE” initiative, a nationwide campaign focused on helping address the country’s classroom shortage through purpose-driven consumer partnerships.

Recently, the campaign received two major honors on the global stage:
  • The 2026 Global Gold Quill Award for Nonprofit Sector Communication from the International Association of Business Communicators
  • The NGO and Charity Award at the PRCA APAC Awards 2026 hosted by the Public Relations and Communications Association Asia-Pacific

The recognition highlights how collaborative campaigns rooted in social impact are increasingly reshaping the relationship between businesses, consumers, and communities across the Philippines.

Generation HOPE Turns Everyday Spending Into Classroom Support

Launched in partnership with the Department of Education and several major brands, the Generation HOPE campaign was designed to help address one of the country’s long-standing educational challenges: the shortage of safe and functional classrooms in public schools.

Instead of relying solely on traditional fundraising, the initiative encouraged Filipinos to contribute through simple everyday activities such as shopping, booking rides, buying movie tickets, or purchasing lifestyle products.

The campaign’s approach made social impact feel more accessible and integrated into daily life.

Several major brands participated by embedding donation mechanics directly into their products and services.

BDO introduced the HOPE Mastercard, which matched donations based on card spending, while Grab launched “Grab HOPE Hour,” where rides and food deliveries contributed to fundraising efforts.

Meanwhile:
  • SM Supermalls donated from movie ticket purchases through “HOPE in a Movie”
  • Penshoppe released a dedicated HOPE apparel collection
  • Sunnies Studios launched limited-edition products supporting classroom projects
  • Carmen's Best introduced “HOPE in a Scoop” and “HOPE in a Pint” initiatives
  • The Aivee Clinic released a special travel tote benefiting the campaign

Together, these collaborations transformed ordinary consumer behavior into direct educational support.

HOPE Has Now Built 167 Classrooms Across the Philippines

The campaign’s impact has continued expanding steadily over the years.

In 2025 alone, HOPE funded the construction of 25 classrooms nationwide. Since its founding in 2012, the organization has successfully built 167 classrooms benefiting more than 53,000 students across the country.

For many communities, these classrooms represent more than physical structures. They provide safer, less overcrowded learning environments where students can study more comfortably and teachers can deliver lessons more effectively.

Recent milestones include:
  • The turnover of two fully equipped classrooms from Sunnies Studios in Alitagtag, Batangas
  • The groundbreaking of five new classrooms funded through Penshoppe in Paombong, Bulacan
  • Ongoing educational infrastructure projects across Albay, Pampanga, Negros Occidental, and Negros Oriental

These projects continue reflecting the campaign’s long-term focus on improving access to quality learning spaces in underserved communities.

Nanette Medved-Po Says Collective Action Drives Real Change

According to Nanette Medved-Po, Chairperson and Founder of HOPE, the awards represent more than organizational success. They reflect what becomes possible when businesses, consumers, and advocacy groups work together toward a shared goal.

Medved-Po emphasized that the campaign was designed to make nation-building feel more approachable for ordinary Filipinos by allowing them to contribute through simple daily actions.

Whether purchasing a shirt, ordering food, booking transportation, or watching a movie, consumers became part of a larger movement supporting public education.

Her message also reinforces a growing shift in modern business culture where brands are increasingly expected to align with meaningful social impact initiatives rather than focus solely on commercial growth.

Purpose-Driven Campaigns Continue Resonating With Consumers


In recent years, consumers have become more intentional about supporting brands and organizations connected to causes they care about.

Purpose-driven campaigns like Generation HOPE resonate because they combine convenience with meaningful impact. Instead of asking people to drastically change their habits, they create simple opportunities to participate in something larger through actions already embedded in daily routines.

That accessibility is part of what made the campaign stand out internationally.

The initiative also demonstrates how strategic partnerships between nonprofits, corporations, and government agencies can create scalable solutions to long-standing social challenges.

With public education remaining one of the country’s most important development priorities, campaigns like Generation HOPE show how collective action can produce visible and measurable results over time.

And as more brands explore socially conscious business models, the success of HOPE may continue inspiring future collaborations centered on education, sustainability, and community impact.
Read More
di

JCI Manila Launches ColorFest Carnival Run for Mental Health


Mental health conversations in the Philippines continue to grow louder, more urgent, and more necessary. Now, one upcoming community event is turning movement into meaningful action.

JCI Manila has officially partnered with Philippine Mental Health Association and Hyve Sports PH to launch the JCI Manila ColorFest Carnival Run for Mental Health, a large-scale advocacy run designed to raise awareness and help fund the construction of the PMHA Wellness Center.


Set for May 31, 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex, the event combines fitness, community spirit, and mental health advocacy in one vibrant celebration filled with color, music, and purpose.

More than just another fun run, organizers hope the initiative will encourage more Filipinos to prioritize mental wellbeing while helping create a safe space for healing and support.

The ColorFest Carnival Run Supports a Future Mental Wellness Center

One of the event’s biggest goals is to raise funds for the future PMHA Wellness Center, a dedicated mental health facility planned within the PMHA compound.

The unfinished area will eventually be transformed into a calming, supportive environment designed specifically for counseling, therapy sessions, wellness programs, and emotional healing. According to organizers, the center will feature counseling and group therapy rooms, meditation areas, healing gardens, and quiet spaces meant to encourage reflection and recovery.

The vision behind the project is simple but deeply important: to create a safe haven where individuals struggling with mental health challenges can seek support without fear or stigma.

As mental health services continue to become more essential in everyday life, initiatives like this highlight the growing demand for accessible and compassionate wellness spaces in the Philippines.

JCI Manila Highlights the Link Between Physical and Mental Health

For JCI Manila President Edison Ke, the ColorFest Carnival Run reflects the organization’s long-standing commitment to community service and holistic wellbeing.

Ke shared that JCI Manila carries out hundreds of community projects annually with the help of its members, emphasizing that mental health deserves the same level of attention often given to physical fitness.

That message sits at the core of the event itself.

Running, exercise, and physical movement have increasingly become part of broader conversations surrounding stress management, emotional wellness, and mental resilience. The ColorFest Carnival Run aims to reinforce that connection in a way that feels accessible, uplifting, and community-driven.

Meanwhile, Project Chairman Anton Laborte described the initiative as more than a traditional charity run.

According to Laborte, the event serves as a reminder that no one should face mental health struggles alone. He encouraged participants to “run with purpose” while supporting a cause that directly impacts the lives of many Filipinos.

PMHA Sees the Event as a Platform for Greater Awareness

As the event’s primary beneficiary, the Philippine Mental Health Association welcomed the initiative as an opportunity to broaden awareness surrounding mental and physical wellbeing.

Dr. Carolina Uno-Rayco, National Executive Director of PMHA, emphasized that both mental and physical health are essential components of overall wellness. She noted that events like the ColorFest Carnival Run help create more conversations around these often interconnected issues.

PMHA President Mariano Arce Jr. also stressed the importance of creating restorative spaces where people can reconnect with themselves and nature.

His comments reflect a growing shift toward more holistic approaches to mental health care, where calming environments, mindfulness, and community support play an important role alongside traditional therapy and counseling.

What Participants Can Expect at the ColorFest Carnival Run

Unlike a standard race event, the JCI Manila ColorFest Carnival Run is designed to feel festive, energetic, and welcoming for participants of all ages and fitness levels.

The course will feature bursts of color, music stations, carnival-inspired attractions, and interactive experiences aimed at creating an uplifting atmosphere throughout the run.

Whether participants are seasoned runners, casual joggers, or first-timers simply showing support for mental health advocacy, the event hopes to make everyone feel included.

The initiative is also supported by several advocacy and community partners, including Punto Consultancy as PR-CSR partner, helping amplify awareness for the cause ahead of the May 31 event.

In recent years, conversations around mental health have become increasingly visible across schools, workplaces, online spaces, and communities throughout the Philippines.

But while awareness continues growing, access to supportive environments and wellness resources remains a challenge for many people.

That’s why initiatives like the JCI Manila ColorFest Carnival Run matter. They create opportunities not only to raise funds, but also to normalize conversations around emotional wellbeing and encourage collective support.

At a time when many people are searching for connection, healing, and safe spaces, the event offers something simple yet meaningful: a reminder that caring for mental health should never be done alone.

Participants can register for the JCI Manila ColorFest Carnival Run for Mental Health through the official event website.
Read More
di

The Bloomfields Return With Nostalgic New Single “Tayo, Na Dali!”


Just when a new generation of listeners started rediscovering their viral hit “Ale,” Filipino retro-pop band The Bloomfields is proving they still know exactly how to make people sing, sway, and feel every lyric.

The group’s newest single, “Tayo, Na Dali!,” arrives as a vibrant throwback filled with vintage pop charm, dance-floor warmth, and surprisingly emotional storytelling beneath its upbeat sound. Inspired by the timeless energy of ‘60s pop music, the track feels both nostalgic and refreshingly sincere, reminding listeners why The Bloomfields continue to resonate across generations.

More than just another feel-good release, “Tayo, Na Dali!” captures something many people quietly long for these days: the urge to fully enjoy fleeting moments before they disappear.

“Tayo, Na Dali!” Blends Joy, Nostalgia, and Emotional Honesty

At first listen, the song sounds like a carefree invitation to dance. But beneath its bright melodies and lively groove lies a deeper message about time, memory, and human connection.

Vocalist and drummer Rocky Collado shared that while the track outwardly encourages someone to dance, it also carries a subtle emotional urgency. According to him, life’s best moments can pass quickly, making it important to stay present and celebrate them while they last.

That emotional core becomes especially clear in the lyric, “Malay mo isang araw, hindi na tayo makakapagsayaw,” which grounds the upbeat arrangement in vulnerability and reflection.

It’s this balance between joy and bittersweet honesty that gives “Tayo, Na Dali!” its emotional pull. The song feels equally suited for dance floors, weddings, celebrations, and quiet moments of nostalgia.

The Bloomfields Embrace Their Retro Pop Roots Again

Musically, “Tayo, Na Dali!” reconnects with the live-band energy that first made The Bloomfields stand out in the local music scene.

The track draws influence from iconic acts like The Monkees, The Romantics, and The Beatles while blending those retro sensibilities with unmistakable OPM warmth.

Rather than sounding like a simple tribute to classic pop, the single feels like a natural evolution of the band’s identity. Their years of performing together bring a level of confidence and polish that keeps the vintage-inspired sound feeling authentic rather than overly nostalgic.

The release also arrives at a particularly exciting time for the band. Following the viral resurgence of “Ale” on TikTok and streaming platforms, younger listeners have started discovering The Bloomfields alongside longtime fans who grew up with their music.

That cross-generational appeal gives “Tayo, Na Dali!” even more emotional weight. It feels like both a celebration of the past and a reminder that timeless music can continue finding new audiences.

Pepe Herrera Brings Heart to the Music Video

The release of “Tayo, Na Dali!” also comes with a highly anticipated music video starring acclaimed actor Pepe Herrera.

Known for his magnetic screen presence and emotionally grounded performances, Herrera adds warmth and sincerity to the project, helping bring the song’s nostalgic themes to life visually.

Rocky Collado praised Herrera’s natural charisma on set, sharing how the actor immediately understood how to work with the camera while balancing emotion and rhythm effortlessly.

The music video itself draws inspiration from ‘90s teen romance and coming-of-age films, creating a visual experience that feels sentimental without becoming overly dramatic.

More importantly, the concept reflects the many life moments The Bloomfields have become part of throughout their career. From weddings and anniversaries to birthdays and debuts, the band has long served as the soundtrack to countless Filipino celebrations.

According to Collado, this was his first time conceptualizing a music video for the band’s own material, making the project even more personal. He wanted the visuals to celebrate not just the song itself, but the journey The Bloomfields have shared with audiences over the years.

Directed by Jeremy Jay Abaño, the music video combines nostalgia, humor, romance, and heartfelt storytelling in a way that mirrors the song’s emotional balance perfectly.

In an era where trends move quickly and attention spans feel shorter than ever, “Tayo, Na Dali!” stands out by slowing things down emotionally.

The song reminds listeners to appreciate the people, memories, and celebrations happening right now before they become distant moments in the past. That message, paired with The Bloomfields’ timeless musical style, gives the track a lasting emotional impact.

For longtime fans, the single feels like reconnecting with an old friend. For newer listeners discovering the band through TikTok or streaming platforms, it offers a warm introduction to one of OPM’s most enduring retro-pop acts.

And perhaps that’s what makes “Tayo, Na Dali!” work so well. It isn’t trying to chase modern trends aggressively. Instead, it leans into sincerity, nostalgia, and the simple joy of dancing through life while the music is still playing.
Read More
di

syd hartha and TONEEJAY Find Comfort by the Sea in “dito muna tayo”


Some songs feel like an escape. Others feel like coming home.

That quiet sense of comfort and emotional stillness lies at the heart of “dito muna tayo,” the newest collaboration between Filipino singer-songwriter syd hartha and acclaimed indie artist TONEEJAY. Released through Sony Music Entertainment, the folk-pop single captures the healing power of spaces that allow people to slow down, breathe deeply, and simply exist.

Built around soft instrumentation and intimate storytelling, “dito muna tayo” feels less like a grand emotional declaration and more like a quiet conversation with oneself. It’s reflective, calming, and deeply rooted in personal memory, making it one of the most emotionally resonant local releases this year.

“dito muna tayo” Draws Inspiration From the Ocean

For syd hartha, the ocean has always represented peace.

The Cebu-born artist shared that many of her childhood memories revolve around trips to nearby beaches with her great grandparents. Those experiences stayed with her long after childhood ended, shaping not only her relationship with nature but also the emotional core of the song.

According to syd, living near the sea for several months became a transformative experience that helped her heal physically, mentally, and emotionally. Leaving that environment eventually became difficult because it felt like leaving behind a part of herself.

That emotional attachment is woven throughout “dito muna tayo.” The song carries the feeling of wanting to remain in a place where life feels lighter, quieter, and more grounded.

Instead of relying on dramatic production, the track embraces simplicity. Gentle guitar work, restrained arrangements, and subtle textures allow the lyrics and emotions to breathe naturally.

syd hartha and TONEEJAY’s Collaboration Feels Effortless

One of the song’s biggest strengths is the chemistry between syd hartha and TONEEJAY.

The two artists previously worked together on one of TONEEJAY’s songs, and according to syd, another collaboration felt inevitable. When she began shaping “dito muna tayo” into her next single, she realized the song needed another voice to add depth and emotional color.

That missing piece turned out to be TONEEJAY.

Rather than overpowering each other stylistically, both artists meet in the middle with understated restraint. Their songwriting styles complement one another naturally, creating a track that feels emotionally open without becoming overly sentimental.

The collaboration also highlights what makes both artists stand out in the Filipino indie music scene. They prioritize storytelling and sincerity over excess, allowing vulnerability to become the centerpiece of the song.

A Folk-Pop Song Rooted in Memory and Healing

At its core, “dito muna tayo” is about finding refuge.

The recurring lyric, “babalik at uuwi ako dito,” reflects a longing to return to spaces tied to comfort, healing, and familiarity. It’s the kind of sentiment many listeners can immediately relate to, especially in a fast-paced world where moments of stillness often feel temporary.

To make the song feel even more personal, syd included Cebuano lines in the lyrics. The addition gives the track a sense of intimacy and authenticity while honoring her roots and childhood memories connected to the sea.

She also revealed that the songwriting process unfolded naturally. The melody began with her imagining what calmness would sound like on guitar, with the lyrics flowing from there organically.

That simplicity ultimately became the song’s greatest strength.

Instead of chasing trends or overproduced moments, “dito muna tayo” leans fully into honesty and emotional clarity. The result is a song that feels comforting in the same way waves, silence, or a familiar place can feel comforting after a difficult season.

Why “dito muna tayo” Resonates So Deeply

In recent years, Filipino indie and folk-pop artists have increasingly embraced softer, emotionally grounded storytelling, and syd hartha continues to be one of the scene’s most compelling voices.

“dito muna tayo” arrives at a time when many listeners are searching for music that feels genuine and emotionally restorative. The track doesn’t demand attention loudly. Instead, it quietly stays with you long after the final note fades.

For fans of reflective OPM, acoustic-driven songwriting, and emotionally rich collaborations, this release offers exactly the kind of warmth that feels timeless.

syd hartha and TONEEJAY’s “dito muna tayo” is now available on digital streaming platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Read More
di

KAIA, HORI7ON, and 1st.One Unite for P-Pop Anthem “Sulong”


P-Pop continues to break new ground, and one of its biggest collaborative moments yet has officially arrived. Filipino girl group KAIA has joined forces with HORI7ON and 1st.One for “Sulong,” the official theme song of the ASEAN-Korea Music Festival ROUND Philippines 2026.

Released under the special collaboration unit Project P-Pop: Rising, the track celebrates unity, ambition, and the growing global presence of Filipino pop music. More than just a festival anthem, “Sulong” represents a bigger movement happening across Asia as P-Pop artists continue building stronger cultural and musical connections beyond the Philippines.

For fans of the genre, the collaboration feels like a milestone moment that highlights how far Filipino pop has come in recent years.

“Sulong” Reflects the Growing Power of P-Pop

The title “Sulong,” a Filipino word meaning “to move forward” or “to progress,” perfectly captures the message behind the collaboration.

At its core, the song is about pushing boundaries together. It reflects the shared dream among Filipino artists to bring local talent onto a wider international stage while fostering deeper connections with audiences across ASEAN and Korea.

Rather than focusing on individual success, the project emphasizes collective growth. That spirit of collaboration became one of the defining parts of the experience for KAIA.

According to the group, working alongside artists from different backgrounds and styles created an environment built on teamwork, creativity, and mutual respect. Despite each group having its own journey and identity, everyone involved shared the same mission of proudly representing Filipino music.

KAIA also highlighted that the project extended beyond the performers themselves. Behind the scenes, producers, creatives, organizers, and production teams all played an important role in bringing the vision of “Sulong” to life.

KAIA, HORI7ON, and 1st.One Showcase ASEAN-Korea Unity

The collaboration arrives at a time when P-Pop is steadily gaining more recognition internationally.

Groups like HORI7ON, who are based in South Korea, have helped introduce Filipino talent to wider Asian audiences, while acts such as KAIA and 1st.One continue expanding the sound and reach of modern P-Pop locally and abroad.

By bringing these artists together, Project P-Pop: Rising sends a strong message about regional collaboration in Asian music. Instead of competing for attention individually, the participating groups are proving that partnerships can help strengthen the entire movement.

KAIA shared that collaborations like “Sulong” help break barriers not only between artists, but also among fans and cultures. The group emphasized that building stronger connections across countries is essential to the continued growth of both P-Pop and ASEAN music globally.

That message resonates strongly in today’s music landscape, where cross-border collaborations are becoming increasingly important in shaping global pop culture.

ROUND Philippines 2026 Highlights the Future of Asian Pop Music

The ASEAN-Korea Music Festival ROUND Philippines 2026 aims to spotlight cultural exchange and artistic collaboration between Southeast Asia and Korea, two regions with rapidly evolving music scenes.

With “Sulong” serving as its official theme song, the festival positions itself as more than just a concert platform. It becomes a symbol of shared creativity and regional identity.

The collaboration also reflects how P-Pop continues evolving from a niche genre into a major force within Asian entertainment. Over the last few years, Filipino idol groups have steadily built passionate fan communities, improved production quality, and expanded their influence internationally through streaming platforms and social media.

Projects like this help solidify that momentum.

For newer listeners discovering the genre, “Sulong” offers an accessible entry point into the energy and optimism that define today’s P-Pop scene. For longtime fans, it’s another exciting sign that Filipino artists are becoming increasingly visible on the global stage.

When and Where to Watch “Sulong”

Fans can catch the live performance of “Sulong” through Korean Broadcasting System World TV on the following dates:
Episode 1 — May 21, 2026 at 21:50 KST
Episode 2 — May 22, 2026 at 21:50 KST

The performances will also premiere on the KBS World YouTube channel on May 22, 2026 at 23:00 KST.

As P-Pop continues its rise across Asia and beyond, “Sulong” arrives as both a celebration and a statement. It’s proof that Filipino artists are not only finding their place in the global music conversation, but moving forward together while doing it.
Read More
di

ALYSON Explores Love’s Aftermath in New Album AFTER OURS


There’s a certain kind of album that arrives at exactly the right time. Not because it chases trends or dominates playlists overnight, but because it captures emotions people quietly carry long after the excitement fades. That’s the space Filipino city pop collective ALYSON steps into with AFTER OURS, their much-anticipated sophomore album arriving on May 22, 2026.

Released via Offshore Music, the eight-track project expands on the warmth and nostalgia that made their debut record, Definitely Love!, resonate with listeners. But this time around, the band leans into deeper emotional territory, offering a more refined, introspective, and musically ambitious body of work.

For fans of modern OPM, Japanese city pop, Manila Sound, and groove-heavy soul records, AFTER OURS feels less like a casual listen and more like an experience meant to unfold from beginning to end.

ALYSON’s AFTER OURS Marks a More Mature Era

If Definitely Love! captured the dizzy excitement of romance at its peak, AFTER OURS focuses on what happens once reality settles in.

Themes of longing, temptation, emotional uncertainty, and personal reckoning flow throughout the album. The record explores the quieter moments that follow the thrill: late-night thoughts, unresolved feelings, and the complicated spaces between connection and distance.

Lyricist and vocalist Pio Ligot explained that the album title itself reflects that emotional shift.

According to Ligot, AFTER OURS represents the moments “after hours,” when distractions disappear and people are left alone with their thoughts. He added that the album reflects a more realistic understanding of love compared to the idealism explored in their earlier work.

That sense of emotional honesty gives the project its strongest moments. Rather than relying on polished romantic clichés, the band allows vulnerability and uncertainty to take center stage.

A Love Letter to City Pop and Classic OPM

Musically, AFTER OURS pulls from a rich mix of influences without sounding trapped in nostalgia.

The album draws inspiration from Japanese city pop, jazz, Brazilian funk, Motown, Philly soul, ‘70s-inspired OPM, and the unmistakable groove of Manila Sound. Instead of simply recreating retro sounds, ALYSON blends these styles into something cinematic yet accessible for today’s listeners.

Producer and drummer Marcus Mababangloob shared that the band approached the record as a reflection of their growth over the past few years.

He described the debut album as energetic and unfiltered, while AFTER OURS feels more intentional and fully realized. That maturity becomes immediately noticeable in the album’s polished arrangements and carefully paced sequencing.

Rather than building the album around viral-ready singles, the band structured the project as a cohesive emotional journey. Songs transition naturally into one another, allowing the record to feel immersive from start to finish.

Why AFTER OURS Sounds More Organic Than Most Modern Records

One of the most interesting aspects of the album is how it was recorded.

In an era dominated by heavily edited digital production, ALYSON embraced a more traditional recording process. The group reportedly spent nearly a year writing and rehearsing the material before entering the studio. Several tracks were recorded live or with large ensemble sections, minimizing overdubs to preserve the natural rhythm and imperfections of performance.

That old-school approach gives the album warmth and texture that many modern releases often lack.

Marcus explained that the band intentionally avoided relying too heavily on metronomic precision because they wanted the music to “ebb and flow” naturally with the emotions of each song. For ALYSON, live recording wasn’t a compromise but a deliberate artistic choice inspired by the classic records they admire.

The result is an album that feels alive, expressive, and deeply human.

Standout Tracks Bring Emotion and Energy Together

AFTER OURS also showcases some of ALYSON’s boldest songwriting so far.

Tracks like “Ikaw Lagi,” “Landi,” “Bighani,” and “Kung Sakaling Tanawin” highlight the band’s willingness to experiment rhythmically while staying emotionally grounded. Each song carries its own distinct atmosphere, balancing lush instrumentation with relatable storytelling.

Meanwhile, “Talaga” stands out as one of the album’s most intriguing collaborations. Featuring Filipino artist Paprikka, the track channels the dramatic energy of vintage anime romances through a classic city pop duet setup.

The album’s sonic depth is further elevated through the work of orchestral arranger and trumpeter David Jorvina, whose horn and string arrangements add richness and emotional scale throughout the record.

Adding another layer of authenticity, AFTER OURS was mastered in Tokyo by acclaimed engineer Eiji Hirano, known for working with Japanese acts such as Ryusenkei. That collaboration gives the project an even stronger connection to the city pop lineage that helped shape its sound.

AFTER OURS Could Be a Defining Album for Modern OPM

Over the last few years, Filipino artists have continued pushing OPM into exciting new territory, blending global influences with deeply local storytelling. ALYSON feels like part of that growing movement, but with a musicality and artistic confidence that sets them apart.

AFTER OURS doesn’t try to overwhelm listeners with spectacle. Instead, it slowly pulls them into its world through sincerity, groove, and emotional detail.

For longtime fans, the album signals a band becoming more fearless creatively. For new listeners, it offers one of the strongest entry points into the evolving landscape of modern Filipino city pop.

As the local music scene continues to expand globally, AFTER OURS arrives as the kind of record that deserves to linger long after the final track fades.

AFTER OURS Tracklist
  • IKAW LAGI
  • LANDI
  • BIGHANI
  • KUNG SAKALING TANAWIN
  • TALAGA
  • GOODBYE, SUMMER
  • 24/7 LOVE & CARE
  • DI MAKAPANIWALA

ALYSON’s AFTER OURS drops worldwide on digital streaming platforms on May 22, 2026 via Offshore Music.
Read More
di

WAIIAN Celebrates BACKSHOTS Anniversary With Live “BACKSHOW” Concert in Mandaluyong

Saturday, May 9, 2026


Filipino hip-hop continues to evolve, and one artist helping shape its current landscape is WAIIAN. Following the massive success of his acclaimed album BACKSHOTS, the rapper is set to celebrate its milestone anniversary with a special live event titled “BACKSHOW” – The BACKSHOTS Late 1st Anniversary Show.

Co-presented by Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and LIAB Studios, the anniversary concert promises an immersive live experience that pays tribute to one of the most talked-about Filipino hip-hop albums in recent years.

BACKSHOTS Continues To Leave Its Mark on Filipino Hip-Hop

Released in 2025, BACKSHOTS quickly gained recognition for its raw authenticity, genre-blending sound, and unapologetic storytelling. The album resonated deeply with listeners for staying true to WAIIAN’s artistic identity while challenging expectations within the local music scene.

Today, the project has amassed more than 30 million streams on Spotify, cementing its place as one of the standout Filipino hip-hop releases of the decade.

Beyond streaming numbers, the album has developed a strong cult following among fans who connect with its honesty, sonic experimentation, and emotional depth.

“BACKSHOW” Brings the Album to Life With a Full Live Band

While the idea for “BACKSHOW” was already in motion before BACKSHOTS officially dropped, the anniversary event now arrives at the perfect time.

For the first time, WAIIAN will perform the entire album with a live band setup, offering audiences a new way to experience the music.

The rapper described BACKSHOTS as one of the proudest and most personal projects of his career, sharing that the live show felt like the natural next step now that the band has developed stronger chemistry through months of performing together.

Fans can expect a more dynamic and emotionally charged interpretation of the album in a live setting.

A Strong Lineup of Collaborators and Guest Artists

The anniversary show will also showcase performances from artists within WAIIAN’s creative circle and fellow LIAB Studios collaborators.

The lineup includes:
  • Karmela Roxy
  • Bad Indie Eye
  • Nicole Anjela
  • SHNTI
  • Yorko
  • DJ MILKY
  • Kartell’em
  • DJ Bebi Keychain
  • Alisson Shore
  • La Mave

The diverse roster reflects the collaborative and community-driven spirit that has helped shape WAIIAN’s music and artistic journey.

Spotify RADAR Recognition Signals Bigger Things Ahead

The timing of “BACKSHOW” also coincides with WAIIAN’s inclusion in Spotify’s RADAR 2026 program, which spotlights rising artists poised for greater international visibility.

The anniversary concert additionally serves as a preview of what fans can expect ahead of another major album release planned later this year.

For supporters of Filipino hip-hop, the event signals an exciting new chapter for one of the genre’s most compelling voices.

Event Details for “BACKSHOW”

“BACKSHOW” – The BACKSHOTS Late 1st Anniversary Show will happen on May 15, 2026, at 123 Block.

Exclusive event merchandise will also be available in limited quantities during the show.

More than an anniversary celebration, “BACKSHOW” highlights how Filipino hip-hop continues to grow through artists willing to stay authentic and push creative boundaries.

With BACKSHOTS, WAIIAN created a project that resonated because it felt honest, fearless, and deeply personal. Bringing the album to life onstage with a live band makes the celebration even more meaningful for fans who have connected with the music over the past year.
Read More
di
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)