OPM hitmaker Maki continues to make his mark on the international music scene as he joined the star-studded lineup of Lalala Fest Manila and made a special appearance at British singer-songwriter Rex Orange County’s Manila concert.
Maki performed with Rex Orange County during his one-night exclusive show at the SM Mall of Asia Arena last Thursday (Aug. 20), where he performed some of his fan-favorite tracks including “Dilaw,” “Saan?” and “kahel na langit.”
“Totoo pala ’no, dreams do come true. Parang dati lang, nagco-cover ako ng mga Rex Orange County songs. Tapos now I’m sharing the same stage with them. We’ve come a long way, OPM,” Maki said during his performance.
Makes a special appearance at Rex Orange County’s concert
Maki then joined the lineup of Lalala Fest Manila last Friday (Aug. 21), sharing the stage with international acts including Steve Lacy, FLO, Two Door Cinema Club, Matthew Ifield, alongside OPM bands Ben&Ben, Over October, Dilaw, and fitterkarma.
He also gave festivalgoers another surprise when he was joined by James Reid for a special performance of their collaboration “luck,” giving fans a live taste of their new single.
Maki’s appearance at the festival and Rex Orange County’s concert comes as he continues to bring his music to wider audiences following his recent international activities and tour across Southeast Asia.
Listen to “luck” by Maki and James Reid, now available on all digital streaming platforms, and stream Maki’s music on your favorite platforms. For more details, follow Tarsier Records on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
New P-pop group AZTER turns the experiences of youth into music in their debut album “univerZity,” a seven-track collection that explores friendship, heartbreak, uncertainty, healing, and self-discovery.
The group’s name carries a special meaning, drawing inspiration from the aster, a flower associated with blooming, as well as a star that shines brightly. For AZTER, this reflects their mantra to “blossom like a flower and shine like a star.” The letter “Z” also represents one of their two sub-units, Zodiac, alongside AXIS.
The 12-member group—Kean, Charlie, Tatin, Gee, Alas, Laurence, Wayne, Loyd, Kiel, Gem, Miguel, and Cray—builds a fictional university around “univerZity,” where each “classroom” represents a different experience and lesson.
The album features “Parang May Mali,” “Kupido,” “Kick Ball Challenge,” “K Dot,” “OTW,” “Unlove You,” and “Boys Night Out” composed and produced by Roel Rostata, Patrick Rodriguez, John Reinard Fernandez, Jungee Marcelo, Renz Jomel Salazar, Ron Pangyarihan, Randy Preysto, and AZTER Gee. The album was overall produced by StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos.
The campus concept also reflects how AZTER sees its large lineup as one of its biggest strengths, allowing each member’s individuality to contribute to the group’s identity.
“We have always thought that having so many members is our strength as a group, and we wanted to make use of that. We intended to incorporate school, university, and classroom themes to embody the concept that each member has different individualities, and when together, we make one great team,” AZTER said.
Beyond performing the songs, the members were also actively involved in shaping the album’s music, visuals, concepts, and choreography.
“Through the making of the songs, the visuals, and concepts, we made sure that we always had our input in the ideas and work. Gee has written and solely composed three songs from the album. Kean, Laurence, Kiel, Tatin, Cray, and other members, along with our coaches, brainstormed the choreography of each song,” they shared.
Leading the album is “Parang May Mali,” which captures the frustration of feeling stuck in the same situation while holding on to the hope that things will eventually change.
The song immediately stood out to the members during their listening session, making them confident that it would be the right introduction to AZTER’s sound.
“We had a listening session for the songs presented for the album. The moment we heard the demo for ‘Parang May Mali,’ everyone in the room instantly knew it was a banger and would be the perfect sound to introduce AZTER in the scene,” they said.
Through “univerZity,” AZTER hopes to build a sound that continues to evolve beyond trends while encouraging listeners, especially the youth, to embrace their individuality, believe in themselves, and pursue their dreams.
Listen to AZTER’s “univerZity” album, available now on all digital streaming platforms. For more details, follow AZTER on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and Spotify. For updates, follow StarPop on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok
It’s getting more exciting for the PPOP industry’s one and only culminating annual event with the gathering of PPOP stars from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao uniting as one force showcasing the Filipino talent, music, and culture to the world.
XONARA, X8, HAZEL FAITH, CALISTA, BILIB, NEO, 6ENSE, CLOUD 7, ONE SOUTH, NOVA, SYNC and more PPOP artists are joining the pre-show.
Reserve you seat now as we come to celebrate together in the biggest venue ever with the local and international fans on this historical milestone for PPOP industry, marking the genre’s growth and increasing global recognition.
Get ready for this unforgettable night of Music and Wellness happening on October 18 at the Big Dome, Araneta Coliseum produced & presented by Noble Life International celebrating its 20 years of unstoppable noble deeds & health mission.
Our homegrown Filipino artists deserve your support. Let’s show what PPOP can achieve if we just believe.
More than 30,000 visitors gathered at SM Mall of Asia on Aug. 22 and 23 for Korea Travel Fiesta 2026, as the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Manila Office showcased Korea’s diverse tourism offerings and encouraged Filipino travelers to discover new destinations and experiences beyond the country’s familiar attractions.
Held under the theme “Your Winter Playground,” the two-day event brought together 24 industry partners, including travel agencies, online travel operators, airlines, ski resorts and financial institutions. Visitors had direct access to travel information, holiday packages, promotions and services to help them plan their next trip to Korea.
KTO Manila Director Park Young Hee highlighted the strong and growing travel ties between Korea and the Philippines, noting that approximately two million Koreans and Filipinos travel between the two countries each year.
“Whether this is your first visit to Korea or you have been there before, we hope you discover a new place or a new experience,” Park said. “When you leave Korea Travel Fiesta this weekend, I hope you take home not only good memories, but also a real plan to visit Korea. We hope to welcome you in Korea very soon.”
As a key partner of Korea Travel Fiesta 2026, SM Supermalls welcomed the event to SM Mall of Asia. During the opening ceremony, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin delivered congratulatory remarks, highlighting the partnership’s role in bringing Korean tourism, culture and travel experiences closer to Filipino audiences.
A winter playground in Manila
While Korea remains a popular destination among Filipino travelers, the festival encouraged visitors to look beyond Seoul and explore the country’s wider tourism landscape.
From winter getaways and ski holidays to cultural activities, K-Beauty, Korean cuisine and emerging destinations, Korea Travel Fiesta offered visitors a glimpse of the many experiences awaiting them throughout the country.
The event also drew enthusiastic crowds with a star-studded lineup of Korean and Filipino guests and performers.
K-pop singer Bae Jin Young, who joined the opening ceremony, delighted Filipino fans and added to the excitement of the weekend. Acclaimed hip-hop dance crew BANK TWO BROTHERS brought its powerful choreography and high-energy performances to Manila, while Gwyn Dorado showcased her distinctive vocal talent.
Filipino television personality and host Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, actor Jason Francisco and their children, Mela Francisco and Stella Francisco, also joined the festivities. Stella Francisco, KTO’s Honorary Ambassador for Korea Family Tourism in the Philippines, further highlighted Korea’s appeal as a destination for Filipino families and travelers.
Members of KTO’s K-Creators Club likewise shared their experiences exploring Korea, offering visitors inspiration and practical insights into the country’s destinations, culture and lifestyle.
Experiencing Korea beyond the stage
The celebration went beyond music and entertainment, giving visitors opportunities to experience Korea’s traditions and performing arts.
The Korea Taekwondo Association impressed audiences with an energetic demonstration of the country’s iconic martial art, while the internationally acclaimed Korean performance NANTA brought its distinctive combination of comedy, music, rhythm and high-energy entertainment to the stage.
Across the Music Hall and Central Atrium, immersive experience zones allowed visitors to discover Korean destinations, travel opportunities, cultural experiences, K-Beauty and Korean food through a variety of interactive activities.
The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) added another cultural attraction, giving guests the opportunity to try on a Hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire, and capture their Korea-inspired looks through the Life4Cuts photo experience.
For travelers ready to turn inspiration into an itinerary, KTO’s travel agency partners, online tour operators, airlines and ski resorts provided information on travel packages, airfare promotions, ski products and winter travel opportunities.
The Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) also offered information and assistance on Korea visa applications, while partner banks introduced credit card programs and benefits that may help eligible travelers manage their travel expenses.
From experiencing Korea to planning the trip
More than a showcase of Korean culture and entertainment, Korea Travel Fiesta 2026 served as a meeting point between Filipino travelers and Korea’s tourism industry.
By combining travel information, interactive experiences, cultural performances and industry promotions, the event gave visitors an opportunity to experience a taste of Korea in Manila while taking practical steps toward planning their next Korean holiday.
For the thousands who visited SM Mall of Asia over the weekend, Korea Travel Fiesta offered more than a glimpse of what awaits in Korea. It provided inspiration to explore beyond the familiar, discover new destinations and turn the idea of a Korean getaway into an actual travel plan.
The celebrated band marks 33 years of music with ‘TEETH The Reunion – Legacy Tour’ on August 30.
Filipino alternative rock icons TEETH are bringing their Year 33: TEETH The Reunion – Legacy Tour to Singapore on August 30, 2026, allowing Filipino and Singapore-based fans to experience one of the Philippines’ most influential rock bands of the 1990s live onstage.
The Singapore leg of the reunion tour will be held at Foochow Building (Foo Chow Hall), 21 Tyrwhitt Road, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Presented by TEETH and S32 Productions, the concert forms part of the band’s homecoming celebration of more than three decades of music and its enduring legacy in Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
Joining TEETH for the Singapore show is System 32, a Singapore-based Filipino band whose participation adds a local dimension to the evening and further connects the concert with the Filipino community in Singapore.
For Filipino audiences in the city-state, the show offers an opportunity to revisit the sound and spirit of the golden era of Pinoy rock—a period in which TEETH established itself as a defining force in the local alternative music scene. Known for their gritty sound, grunge-influenced guitars, and melodic pop songwriting, the band has left a lasting mark on OPM with enduring hits including “Laklak,” “Prinsesa,” and “Shooting Star.”
TEETH’s current lineup features original members Glenn Jacinto on vocals, Jerome Velasco on guitars, Pedz Narvaja on bass, and Mike Dizon on drums, alongside Dok Sergio on guitars, who formerly played bass for the band.
The Singapore performance also comes at a significant milestone for TEETH, coinciding with the release of the first-ever vinyl pressing of the band’s 1995 self-titled debut album. The album, which achieved double-platinum status, was remastered by Shinji Tanaka, giving longtime fans a new physical format through which to revisit the landmark record while introducing its music to a new generation of listeners.
With its reunion tour and vinyl release marking another chapter in the band’s continuing story, TEETH’s Singapore concert promises to bring the enduring sound of Filipino alternative rock to an audience beyond the Philippines while celebrating the music that helped define an era of OPM.
From timeless classics that have become part of countless memories to fresh songs now finding their place in the hearts of listeners, music from different generations came together as Wish 107.5 celebrated its 12th anniversary through a special production that blended live performances, storytelling, and the enduring power of Original Pilipino Music.
For 12 years, Wish 107.5 has built a platform that not only brings music to audiences but also opens doors for emerging artists and gives new stories a chance to be heard. This year, the station celebrated its milestone by uniting OPM artists from different eras in Wish Date: Unchanging Glass, a one-of-a-kind evening of music, love, and cinema-inspired storytelling.
Among the featured performers were OPM hitmaker Renz Verano, the Queen of Concerts Pops Fernandez, popular band The Juans, and rising singer-songwriter DWTA. Together, they brought different sounds and generations to the stage while becoming part of one emotional story. Pops Fernandez praised the unique concept of combining a narrative with live musical performances.
“I love the idea,” she said. “The editing, the scoring, and the story are all beautifully done. What makes it special is the mix of different sounds, styles of singing, and artists—all coming together in one show and one concert.” For Renz Verano, being part of another Wish production was an opportunity he gladly welcomed.
“This is something different,” he shared. “The reception from the crowd and the audience is always wonderful. Whenever I receive an invitation from Wish, I’m always willing to come with open arms.”
While the established OPM stars brought nostalgia and timeless hits, younger artists such as The Juans and DWTA added a contemporary sound to the Unchanging Glass story, starring Zaijian Jaranilla, Yukii Takahashi, Aljon Mendoza, Monina Lawrence and Sharmaine Suarez.
The experience was especially meaningful for The Juans, who have shared a long history with Wish 107.5. “We’re honored because we’ve been with Wish since we were just starting,” the group said. “Wish was actually the first to produce our first concert at Araneta. This place is very sentimental to us. To be back and perform for Wish again makes us feel like we’re part of this family. Being celebrated by the Wishers is something we will always be grateful for.”
For DWTA, performing alongside some of the artists she once watched and admired was a full-circle moment.
“When I was younger, I would only see them on TV and sing along to their songs,” she shared. “I used to think that if I could just watch them perform in person one day, that would already make me happy. But now, I’m seeing them perform while I’m also one of the performers. It really warms my heart. Thank you so much, Wish, for this opportunity.”
At the heart of the celebration was Unchanging Glass, a new Wish Date story that explores love tested by change, waiting, and memories that remain difficult to leave behind. The music became an extension of the emotions of the characters, expressing the feelings that often remained unspoken in the story.
The production also introduced “Hourglass,” an original composition that serves as the official soundtrack of Wish 107.5’s 12th anniversary. For actor Zaijian Jaranilla, the fusion of acting and live music made the experience even more memorable.
“After we do a scene and then someone suddenly sings, you understand the message they’re trying to convey even more,” he said. “You can feel more deeply what the character wants to say. It was a very enjoyable experience.”
Yukii Takahashi also shared how the combination of music and acting created a deeper connection with the audience.
“I could really feel the connection with the audience through the acting and the song itself,” she said. “I feel like they were in the scene with us. We brought them into the story.”
Beyond the performances, the participating artists also shared their hopes for the future of OPM and their own “unchanging” wishes.
For The Juans, it is the continued support of Wish 107.5 that they hope will always remain.
Renz Verano expressed his desire to see more classic Filipino songs brought back and rediscovered by today’s listeners.
Pops Fernandez, meanwhile, hopes that the importance of meaningful OPM lyrics will continue to be preserved regardless of changing musical styles.
DWTA shared a wish that resonates strongly in today’s rapidly changing music landscape: that technology will never replace the heart and soul of artists.
“I hope we won’t be replaced by Al,” she said. “I hope the heart of artists will remain in the making of music.”
The generations may be different, and the sounds and styles may continue to evolve, but the emotional power of music remains constant.
As Wish 107.5 marks 12 years of its journey, Wish Date: Unchanging Glass stands as a celebration of that connection-where classic and contemporary OPM meet, where established stars and new voices share one stage, and where every song has the power to become part of someone’s story.
For Wish 107.5, the journey continues with the same mission: to champion Filipino music, provide a platform for both established and emerging talents, and bring the sound of OPM to audiences not only in the Philippines, but around the world.
Mark your calendars, Beanie Babies! JMN Brothers Pharma Limited, Inc., in partnership with EC-VIT Multivitamins + Selenium, is bringing fans closer than ever to beloved actress and host Bea Binene with a special one-night fan experience titled BEA-Yond The Years.
There are artists who simply entertain us… and then there are those who grow up with us. Bea Binene has always been the latter.
From the bright-eyed little girl who first stepped into the spotlight on StarStruck Kids more than two decades ago, to the graceful, grounded woman she is today, Bea has never just performed. She has lived every chapter in front of us. We watched her find her voice, stumble, rise, reinvent, and keep showing up with the same quiet sincerity that first made us root for her. Through every role, every stage, every new season of her life, the fans (the Bearries, the longtime supporters, and the ones who just recently fell for her) have been there, cheering her on like family.
Now, it’s time to celebrate all of it.
On September 11, 2026, at 7:00 PM, at the intimate and beloved Teatrino Promenade in Greenhills, San Juan City, something special is happening: BEA-YOND THE YEARS — a Multivitamins + Selenium (EC-VIT) × Bea Binene Fan Experience.
This isn’t just another fan meet. It’s a warm, golden night dedicated to looking back at the beautiful years that shaped her, while looking forward with full hearts to everything still waiting for her. It’s a thank-you, a love letter, and a shared promise all at once. A night where the lights will feel a little softer, the laughter a little fuller, and every memory, from the early days to the present, will be held with care.
Tickets go on sale August 25, 2026, at 8:00 PM.
If you’ve ever smiled because of Bea, if you’ve ever felt seen by one of her performances, if you’ve ever whispered “go, Bea” under your breath during her toughest or brightest moments, this is your chance to be in the room when the fans and the artist meet in the middle of a journey that still has so many pages left to write.
For more ticketing details, keep an eye on Bea Binene’s official social media pages and the Bearries OFC accounts.
This exclusive evening celebrates Bea’s remarkable journey and gives fans the chance to connect with her through photo opportunities, meet-and-greet moments, and exclusive merchandise, all while supporting wellness with EC-VIT.
This September night at Teatrino will be more than an event. It will be a living scrapbook of everything Bea has given us, and a soft hopeful look at everything she has yet to become.
See you on September 11 at Teatrino Promenade, Greenhills. Let’s celebrate the years that shaped Bea… and the ones still to come.
BEA-Yond The Years, because some journeys are best experienced with the people who have been there all along.
Toast: The Best of Bread filled Smart Araneta Coliseum on August 12, bridging longtime fans who grew up with the band’s soft-rock classics and a new generation discovering those same songs for the first time.
The night pulsed with the group’s most enduring hits, “Make It With You,” “Everything I Own,” “If,” “Baby I’m-a Want You,” and “Lost Without Your Love.” Familiar melodies rolled through the arena, sparking sing-alongs that crossed age groups and turned the coliseum into one big, shared living room.
Smart Araneta Coliseum has long been the stage for landmark concerts and cultural moments, and this performance fit right into that tradition. The venue’s history and Bread’s timeless catalog met in the middle, creating the kind of evening that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
The same can be said for Araneta City. New dining spots, entertainment destinations, and developments have continued to shape the City of Firsts, while its familiar role as a place where people meet, celebrate, and spend time together has stayed constant.
“There’s a timeless quality to Bread’s music that matches the energy of Araneta City perfectly,” said Irene L. Jose, COO of Uniprom, the entertainment arm of the Araneta Group. “Toast: The Best of Bread just brought it all together, showing exactly why those melodies still connect and why the Big Dome holds such a special place in our lives.”
For oldies and old souls alike, Smart Araneta Coliseum and Araneta City continue to offer the kind of magic that never needed to make a comeback. And with a fresh lineup of shows and events constantly around the corner, that timeless vibe isn’t going anywhere anytime soon!
In the end, the show did more than just replay the hits. It reminded everyone why Araneta City remains a gathering place for entertainment, celebration, and the kind of memories people carry long after the lights come up.
Filipino-Japanese RADAR artist ena mori brought her genre-defying pop to the Spotify .ORG Stage at Summer Sonic 2026, one of the world’s biggest music festivals as her audience continues to grow beyond the Philippines.
Since joining RADAR Philippines last year ena’s global streams have nearly doubled. The US, Japan, Canada, the UK, and Germany are now among her biggest markets outside the Philippines She performed alongside SB19 and BINI, marking the first time three Filipino acts performed at the festival in the same year, reflecting the growing international visibility of Filipino artists.
“I’m so grateful to be able to do what I love as part of RADAR. To see the journey from smaller stages to a moment like this, and to share it with so many of my fellow artists, is something I’m incredibly proud of. I feel very lucky to be here, and I’m especially grateful to my fans who continue to support me and my music,” ena mori. She opened with “KING OF THE NIGHT!” — a synth-pop track from DON’T BLAME THE WILD ONE!, “Ichigo Milk,” a collab with Japanese trackmaker Tomggg and high-energy “19 Underground.” As she performed, “little sunny baby,” she revealed that six years ago she’d written in her diary, “I hope I can play Summer Sonic someday,”
ena’s rise coincides with a shift across the region. In 2025, nearly half of the Top 20 most globally streamed RADAR artists came from Southeast Asia. The RADAR Philippines playlist itself has tripled in streams over the past year, with significant listenership from the US, Canada, UAE, Australia, and Singapore.
“Asia is producing some of the most exciting emerging talent today, and ena mori represents the originality coming from the Philippines. Her music is unmistakably her own, and its growing reach shows how a distinct creative voice can resonate far beyond its home market. Through RADAR, Spotify is helping more listeners discover artists like ena and follow their growth, says Kossy Ng, Spotify Head of Music, Southeast Asia, Taiwan & Hong Kong
Discover more from ena mori and the next wave of emerging Filipino artists on Spotify’s RADAR Philippines playlist.
“I really mean it, thank you so much for coming along, guys! Thanks for being an incredible crowd… Thank you for supporting us over the years, listening to our music! Manila, we love you,” Steve Garrigan told the audience at the MOA Arena before singing the (supposed) final song setlist. Before that, the Filipino crowd had transformed into a full-blown choir for the band, backing up their tracks like as if they were part of the band themselves.
On August 10, Irish rock band Kodaline took the Philippine concert stage one last time. The Philippines had been part of their musical journey many times – from being included in the Wanderland Festival line-up in 2018, holding solo concerts at the New Frontier Theater and Filinvest Tent, to now taking over MOA Arena for their Farewell Tour in 2026.
Comprised of Steve Garrigan, Vincent May, Mark Prendergast and Jason Boland, Kodaline has been known for their heartfelt lyrics, revolving around love and loss, guitar and piano-driven melodies tinged with Garrigan’s emotionally charged falsetto. To put it simply, their music is the soundtrack for a “love that’s made for movie screens” (to quote a line from their hit song) – cinematic moments of falling in and out of love, along with the grief and yearning.
August 10 fell on a Monday, and a very rainy one at that. For what seemed to be a week, it had been raining nonstop all over the Metro due to the effect of Habagat. Still, a great of number of people turned up to witness Kodaline’s farewell concert at the MOA Arena. The floor area was packed until the back, the upper sections were moderately filled as well. Before the show began, there was this cold stillness in the air. People weren’t excitedly loud. They were just waiting silently.
When Kodaline took the stage, the silence was broken immediately. The band started playing, and as if on cue, the audience lit up and sang along to “Wherever You Are”, “Brand New Day” and “Ready”.
Being part of that audience was special in many ways. It was, after all, the last time Kodaline would be performing as a band in our country. That sense of impending finality might have given the crowd that extra energy to turn the concert into a synchronized singing party. They weren’t obnoxiously loud, rather they were singing along with gentleness and grace – exactly how a choir sounds like in a solemn cathedral. This was audibly felt when Kodaline performed their trademark hits like “High Hopes”, “The One”, “One Day” and “Love Will Set You Free”.
For their part, the band was very appreciative of the warm reception. Steve Garrigan would stop singing just to hear the crowd fill in the words for their songs. He even said at one point that the Philippines had the loudest crowd of the tour thus far. The members of the band would look around the arena, in awe. They would even take short snippets with their own phones just to remember the moment.
During the encore, Garrigan returned, wearing a Gilas Pilipinas jersey. He again expressed his appreciation of the crowd, saying “We won’t forget this, truly. Kodaline proceeded to perform the evergreen favorites “Everything Works Out in the End” and “All I Want”. At the end, the entire arena gave the band a long standing ovation to express their gratitude.
When Kodaline announced their disbandment in October 2025 via their social media pages, it came as a huge shock for their fans. Barely 14 years into making music together, it seemed too early for them to come to that decision. Still, it’s amazing how their music managed to create a distinct impact on people’s lives, providing them warmth, comfort and joy when they needed it most, giving them soundtracks to remember the big and small moments of their lives. Their final concert in Manila was the living proof of that. In that regard, we can only thank Kodaline for making us part of their journey. Their music will surely be remembered for a long, long time.
Japanese singer-songwriter brings TAKASE TOYA ASIA TOUR 2026 “∞” to Teatrino Promenade for an intimate show dedicated to his growing Filipino fanbase.
Japanese singer-songwriter Takase Toya (⾼瀬統也) is coming to the Philippines for his first-ever show in the country, bringing the TAKASE TOYA ASIA TOUR 2026 “∞” to Teatrino Promenade, Greenhills, on October 16, 2026.
Designed as an intimate live experience for his growing Filipino fanbase, the Manila show will give local fans a rare opportunity to experience Takase Toya’s music up close as he makes his long-awaited Philippine debut.
Born in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, Takase made his official CD debut in 2014 with “Kokoro no Uta” (Song of the Heart). Writing both his lyrics and music, he has developed a distinctive musical identity through memorable melodies and emotionally driven songwriting that explores love and relationships.
Over the years, Takase has grown from an independent Japanese singer-songwriter into an internationally followed artist. According to his official artist profile, his music has reached the charts of more than 80 countries, while he has surpassed one million monthly listeners on Spotify and accumulated more than three billion total streams across his music.
His growing career has also earned industry recognition. In 2023, he received the Grand Prize in the TuneCore Japan PickUp category at the Independent Artist Awards by TuneCore Japan, followed by another milestone in April 2024 when he surpassed 100 million cumulative streams through TuneCore Japan.
As his audience has expanded internationally, Takase has increasingly brought his music to listeners outside Japan, performing across key cities in East and Southeast Asia. His previous international touring activities have included performances in Taipei, Seoul, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta, Hong Kong, and cities across China.
This October, he meets his Filipino fans in Manila for the first time.
Rather than a large-scale concert, the Manila stop is envisioned as a more personal introduction between Takase and his Philippine audience. The setting of Teatrino Promenade will allow fans to experience his songwriting, music, and live performance in a closer and more intimate environment.
The Philippine show forms part of the TAKASE TOYA ASIA TOUR 2026 “∞,” an extensive tour running from September to December across Japan and Asia.
The tour also follows the most recent** digital release of Takase Toya’s fifth album, “∞,”** marking a new chapter in his career and giving audiences new music to experience during the tour.
Joining Takase Toya as opening act is Japanese artist Fumiya Sato, who will also appear across several stops of the tour.
EVENT DETAILS TAKASE TOYA ASIA TOUR 2026 “∞” — MANILA October 16, 2026 Teatrino Promenade, Greenhills, Pasig Opening Act: Fumiya Sato Ticket prices, ticket-selling date, and official ticketing channels will be announced soon. With limited capacity for the intimate Manila show, Filipino fans are encouraged to stay tuned to the official channels of Takase Toya and Black Star Entertainment for the upcoming ticketing announcement and further event updates.
ABOUT TAKASE TOYA Takase Toya (⾼瀬統也) is a Japanese singer-songwriter from Aichi Prefecture who made his official CD debut in 2014. Writing both his lyrics and music, Takase has built an international following through his distinctive melodies and emotionally resonant songwriting. His music has reached charts in more than 80 countries, with his official artist profile reporting more than one million monthly Spotify listeners and over three billion total streams. Following an expanding series of performances across Japan and Asia, Takase brings his music to the Philippines for the first time with an intimate Manila stop of the TAKASE TOYA ASIA TOUR 2026 “∞.”
After introducing listeners to a sense of calm with his debut track “Kalmado,”KDR Music House artist Volter returns with a deeply reflective follow-up single, “Dahan-Dahan”, set for release on August 22—continuing a narrative that feels both personal and universally relatable.
If “Kalmado” offered a moment of stillness amid life’s chaos, “Dahan-Dahan” steps into what comes after—the quiet, often uncertain process of healing. The two songs exist in the same emotional space, like chapters of a story: from finding calm, to learning how to move forward without rushing the journey.
“Dahan-Dahan” is a Tagalog Ppop&B track that captures the in-between stage of recovery—the space where pain hasn’t fully disappeared, but the weight of it no longer feels as overwhelming. It’s about choosing to pause, to breathe, and to take one small step at a time. In a world that constantly demands quick fixes and instant strength, the song gently pushes back against that pressure.
Through its honest storytelling, Volter highlights a message that many need to hear: healing has no deadline. There is no need to rush, no requirement to prove that everything is okay. Rest is not surrender, and moving slowly is not failure—it is, in itself, progress.
Sonically aligned with his signature laid-back yet emotionally resonant style, “Dahan-Dahan” builds on the introspective tone of “Kalmado,” creating a cohesive musical identity that speaks to listeners navigating their own personal battles. It’s the kind of song that doesn’t demand attention loudly, but stays with you quietly—offering comfort in its sincerity.
With “Dahan-Dahan,” Volter continues to carve a space for vulnerability in OPM, reminding everyone that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is to simply keep going—slowly, gently, and at your own pace.
As it drops this August 22,“Dahan-Dahan” stands as both a continuation and a reassurance: after finding calm, healing begins—and it’s perfectly okay to take it one step at a time.
VOLTER
VOLTER is the artist identity of Filipino singer, songwriter, vocal coach, and concert director. A member of The Ryan Cayabyab Singers since 2010, he has spent more than a decade performing and working behind the scenes in the Philippine music industry. He has also coached and collaborated with artists such as SB19, Ben&Ben, Juan Karlos, and IV of Spades.
As a solo artist, VOLTER is building his own musical lane called Ppop&B—Pinoy pop storytelling shaped by the soul of blues and the emotion of R&B. Through songs such as “Ganito Lang,” “Hindi Para Sa Akin,” “Kalmado,” and his upcoming single “Dahan-Dahan,” he writes about contentment, healing, self-worth, and finding peace amid life’s noise.
VOLTER’s music is made for people who are still figuring things out—those learning to let go, move at their own pace, and understand that being gentle with themselves is not a sign of weakness.
Simulan ang bagong laban. Fresh off a blazing run in 2025 that saw hundreds of local talents vie for the coveted title, Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban is gearing up for a brand-new season.
Red Horse Beer, the world’s No. 1 extra strong beer, is once again calling on bands from every corner of the country to stake their claim to the championship. This year, bands nationwide are once again invited to compete through a gauntlet of screenings and eliminations, all the way to the final showdown, to see if they have what it takes to bag the 2026 Pambansang Muziklaban crown.
Open to all Filipino bands with members aged 21 to 45 years old, Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban welcomes all music genres including metal rock, alternative rock, punk rock, reggae, and everything in between. Winners can expect all the glory that has defined the competition for years, with only one standing on top at the end. The Grand Champion will be crowned and will receive a cash prize of Php1,000,000.00 and, more importantly, a lasting spot in Muziklaban’s roster of champions.
For over two decades, the country’s longest-running battle-of-the-bands competition has served as a launchpad for aspiring Filipino musicians. Since 1999, the competition has produced champions like IBARRA (formerly Hardboiledeggz) (2006), EVEN (2008), HATANKARU (2009), LIGHT OF LUNA (2010), and the 2004 Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban Grand Champion MAYONNAISE.
Last season’s Grand Finals saw TAMAD SI JUAN from Davao beat out finalists VDS, BAGUIO GOLD MUSIC, HILO, and THEMATA to take home the top honors. Performances from some of the country’s top bands, including GREYHOUNDZ, WILABALIW, URBANDUB, MAYONNAISE, KJWAN, RAZORBACK, TYPECAST, CHOCOLATE FACTORY, and SETSUNA, rounded out a night capturing the essence of Muziklaban — the best of the best sharing the stage for an all-out music fest.
Registration for the Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban is now ongoing at https://tinyurl.com/RHBMuziklabanRegistration Start tightening your sets now and visit the Red Horse Beer Muziklaban Facebook page (www.facebook.com/redhorsebeermuziklaban) for updates. Sino ang susunod na Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban champion? Rak on! #RedHorseBeerPambansangMuziklaban
Jennylyn Mercado is back where she started—and this time, it feels personal.
The Ultimate Star and longtime rom-com queen is returning to music with JEN Deluxe, a more intimate and heartfelt repackage of her 2025 Star Music EP JEN. The project drops on all major digital platforms at midnight on August 21.
For Mercado, this isn’t just another release. Music has always been her first love. She began her career as a singer, and even as acting brought her major success and awards, she kept finding her way back to it. At a recent media conference and exclusive film showing for JEN Deluxe, she made that clear: before the acting roles and the fame, music was her priority. She stepped away for a while to focus on her family, but now she’s coming full circle under Star Music.
She didn’t hold back on the gratitude either. Speaking at the event, Mercado thanked ABS-CBN Music creatives, content, and operations head Jonathan Manalo and the entire Star Music team, calling them “the best in the business.” Manalo, who produced the original JEN EP and worked with her on the standout track “Paulit-Ulit Kang Pipiliin,” said he’s proud of her as she prepares to drop the deluxe edition.
As part of the launch held at Art in Island in Cubao, Mercado also shared a short film that brings the emotions behind JEN Deluxe to life. The visual piece gives fans a closer, more personal look at the stories and feelings woven into the album. She performed “Di Man Masabi,” one of the tracks from the eight-song project, during the media conference. Her husband, actor Dennis Trillo, and their family were there to support her.
JEN Deluxe continues the all-Filipino, emotionally driven direction of the original EP. Songs like “Ayaw Pang Umuwi,” “Hindi Pa Rin Sapat,” and “Paulit-Ulit Kang Pipiliin” explored different stages of love. The deluxe version expands that narrative into something more complete and intimate—a collection that tells a story of love, life, and every emotion in between.
Fans can pre-save the project now and stream it starting at 12 midnight on August 21. For Mercado, who has balanced high-profile acting roles, entrepreneurship, and family life, this release feels like a quiet but firm reminder: music still has a special place. And she’s choosing to share that passion once again.
Music lovers are in for an unforgettable evening as Engelbert Humperdinck returns to the Philippines for The Legend Continues… Engelbert Humperdinck The Celebration Tour 2026, taking place on September 25, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at the New Frontier Theater in Araneta City. The highly anticipated concert gives Filipino fans the chance to experience one of the world’s most enduring and beloved performers live on stage.
For over six decades, Engelbert Humperdinck has captivated audiences across generations with his signature voice, heartfelt performances, and timeless repertoire. With over 150 million records sold worldwide, he remains one of the most recognizable figures in popular music and continues to draw audiences around the globe.
His remarkable career is marked by an impressive collection of classic hits that have stood the test of time. Songs such as Release Me, Am I That Easy to Forget, Quando Quando Quando, A Man Without Love, The Last Waltz, and Spanish Eyes have become cherished favorites for listeners everywhere, earning Humperdinck a lasting place in music history.
Audiences attending The Celebration Tour can expect an evening that honors Humperdinck’s extraordinary legacy while showcasing the artistry that continues to define his career. The concert will feature beloved classics alongside selections connected to his recent studio work, including music from All About Love, which revisits treasured songs from the Great American Songbook.
Humperdinck has also expressed his fondness for performing in Asia, sharing his appreciation for the warmth and enthusiasm of audiences across the region and his excitement to return to the Philippines this September.
Presented as a celebration of a career that has inspired generations of fans, The Legend Continues… Engelbert Humperdinck The Celebration Tour 2026 promises an evening filled with nostalgia, romance, and the timeless music that has made him a global icon.
The Legend Continues… Engelbert Humperdinck The Celebration Tour 2026 takes place on September 25, 2026, at the New Frontier Theater in Araneta City. Tickets are available through TicketNet.
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