Vic Vic Bautista

Sharper in tone and stronger in stance, Ore transforms cultural memory and adulthood into abrasive pop anthems

ena mori maintained her status as one of Asian pop music’s most captivating creative powers in 2025. With high-profile festival appearances, sponsorship collaborations, and an increasing global fan base, the avant-pop shapeshifter ushered in the new year with the release of her six-track EP, rOe. Inspired by emotional sensitivity and self-control, rOe demonstrated Ena Mori’s capacity to transform vulnerability into an engrossing pop fantasy. As anticipated, the EP received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics and fans, making it onto a number of year-end lists worldwide.

Today, February 27, 2026, ena mori completes that orbit with Ore, a companion piece consisting of six tracks that both reflects and challenges the original. The two projects, which were initially intended to be part of a single body of work, diverge in tone and aim. rOe’s work emphasizes stronger declarations and sharper textures, while the former retains emotional nuance.

“As I worked on new songs, I started to feel it would be a better representation if I separated them into two,” the Heartbreak Generation singer-songwriter reveals. “With Ore, I wanted this record to have an edge—a rough texture in its feel—while still sharing the soft and delicate feeling of rOe. Ore is kind of like a bigger sister to rOe: more direct and opinionated, rougher and grittier in appearance, and not afraid to speak her mind.”

Conceptually, Ore traces ena’s passage into adulthood, confronting emotions she once avoided and approaching them with greater clarity and resolve. The EP reflects on independence, uncertainty, and the process of defining oneself outside inherent expectations. In shaping chaos into form, the acclaimed indie pop star found herself quietly repairing—healing to an extent.

As a Filipina-Japanese straddling cultures, ena locates Ore within a deeply personal geography. Cultural identity remains central to the record, so intact and specific, it cuts through the fiber of every track in the EP.

“As I listen back to the record, I realize that it captures a very Asian experience,” ena recounts. “Growing up in an Asian household, surrounded by its values, taboos, societal pressures, and hidden passions, has shaped the way I perceive the world. Navigating my twenties between two cultures—sometimes similar, sometimes polar opposites, braided together.” The EP carries the ambient imprints of her life as is: rainstorms, rice cooker chimes, arcade noise, hot wind against a truck horn.

Produced in close collaboration with Tim Marquez, Ore emphasizes abrasive, disjointed soundscapes over the fluid softness that defined rOe. The project was mixed by Sam Marquez and mastered by Emil Dela Rosa, whose finishing touches preserve both its sharpness and its air.

“Tim and I gravitated toward sounds with humps and bumps—textures that feel tactile in an auditory way. Some might even find them unpleasant or irritating. But that friction felt honest.”

Across its six tracks, Ore balances dance-oriented momentum with reflective lyricism. The arrangements are lean but deliberate, allowing percussive elements and synth lines to carry emotional weight without overwhelming the vocal center. It’s club music without the need to feel escapist: to be specific, it’s music for dimly lit rooms, for underground spaces where self-discovery feels more communal than solitary.

The narrative of the EP is anchored by the lead track “19 Underground.” The song, which was written from the perspective of a nineteen-year-old adolescent attempting to navigate life on her own, depicts her artistic and personal awakening, but most importantly, the year she ultimately discovered her tribe. According to Ena, “I picked it as a focus track because it conveys the idea that nothing originates from a single soul.” Even if you compose music alone, it is still a collective endeavor. We love each other, we hurt each other, and we encourage one another. The great human trade is that friction.

Tracklist – Ore

1. Funny
2. Insomnia
3. Ore
4. 19 Underground (FOCUS TRACK)
5. La Loba
6. Pomegranates

ena mori’s Ore is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

The rising rapper delivers a heavy-hitting anthem about risk, resilience, and building a legacy that lasts

Barq, the rap moniker of Arkin Magalona, delivers another knockout punch with the release of his latest single, “TUMATAK,” under Sony Music Entertainment. The heavy-hitting track chronicles his journey as a young artist who honored the grind with the determination to make it in the industry.

“It’s all about leaving your mark on the world,” shares the rookie hip-hop act. “No matter what you’re doing in life, you should always aim to create something that lasts, something worth remembering. It’s a reminder that impact isn’t just about fame or status; it’s about legacy.”

Propelled by thunderous production and razor-sharp lyricism, “TUMATAK” is an inspiring jam that shows a more reflective, intimate side of Arkin. It debunks some pre-conceived notions about his principles and way of life, while also unlocking his potential as a storyteller.

Raised among figures who overcame adversity to reach remarkable heights, Barq speaks directly to the relentless dreamers who had to endure doubt, pressure, and expectations their entire lives but managed to be committed to their professional and life goals without the need for shortcuts.

“I wrote the track from a very personal place,” he shares. “It reflects where I am right now: not just as an artist, but as a person.”

The song was recorded at Doppla Studio and produced by longtime collaborator Denz A.K.A D. Vaughn, who helmed the track’s commanding sonic template. Inspired in part by the energy of “Gold On My Teeth” by ClicKlak and Isaiah Falls, the production blends booming beats with textured samples, including a vocal element from BARQ’s previous collaboration “Career High,” featuring Manila-based creative Migswell.

“It’s the same Barq, but a different bite,” the youngest son of the late Francis Magalona admits. “I’m like a fusion restaurant serving multiple flavors: it’s up to you to pick from the current or old selections which food you would choose to try out.”

Barq adds, “Every time you release something with your name and your truth on it, that’s a risk. You’re putting your heart out there for people to judge. But growth requires risk. Legacy requires risk.”

Barq’s “TUMATAK” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

The rising P-Pop group makes a confident first impression with a bop about girlhood and self-worth

Emerging as one of the most prominent P-Pop exports from Davao City, Hara is steadily gaining attention for their commanding stage presence and undeniable charisma. The six-member girl group, whose name is derived from a pre-colonial term that means “beauty” and “strength,” carries their identity with intention. They are currently managed by Unique Music Management, led by Paul Widger, best known for his work with Craig David.

“Being the first 100% homegrown P-pop group from Davao under Unique Music Management is something we’re really proud of,” shares the breakthrough P-Pop group. “They believed in our potential and helped guide us creatively while still allowing us to express stories and emotions. Their mentorship pushed us to aim for high quality in our performance, sound, and overall artistry.”

Hara recently secured a recording deal with Sony Music Entertainment, joining the label’s growing roster of P-Pop acts that includes SB19, KAIA, YARA. Marking their first team-up with the global music company, the Davao-based alphas unveiled the Eurohouse-flavored pop track “My Love” as their pre-debut single.

Buoyed by subtle piano chords and sophisticated grooves, “My Love” transports the listeners into clubland fantasia, where suave, confident vocals and magnetic dance-pop production create a mesmerizing sonic experience. The track was produced, mixed, and mastered by Pao Lofranco and Aldy, who worked closely with the group to bring their vision to life.

“The production and arrangement were carefully crafted to match the emotions of the lyrics,” Hara explains. “We worked closely with our producers and creative team to make sure the sound complemented the story of the song. From the instrumental to the vocal layers, everything was arranged to highlight vulnerability while still sounding polished and modern.”

According to the six-piece act, “My Love” was written as a nod to girlhood: a transitory but important phase in life where women experience loving deeply, feeling things intensely, and sometimes giving one’s heart to people who don’t deserve even a fraction of it. “The song talks about heartbreak but also about realizing your worth. It’s about women learning that not everyone is worthy of their love and that it’s okay to walk away. At the same time, we also wanted to show that women aren’t just victims of heartbreak: we’re strong, we make choices, and sometimes we’re the ones who choose ourselves first. The message we hope listeners take away is self-love, empowerment, and knowing your value.”

The track sets the tone for their creative direction: earnest, emotionally resonant, and unapologetically empowering. “These are the stories that we want to tell,” the members add. “We wanted our first song to connect with people emotionally and show that HARA is here to speak for girlhood, growth, and strength.”

HARA’s “My Love” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

From pop-rock icons to drag performers and industry trailblazers, the event champions women onstage and behind the scenes

syd hartha photo courtesy of Sony Music Entertainment; Janine Berdin’s photo care of Universal Music Group

Despite women’s significant contributions to the entertainment industry, they continue to face significant challenges throughout history, from being at the receiving end of discrimination and harmful stereotypes to being overlooked for production roles or leadership positions. Apart from the lack of opportunities, they often experience pay inequity, harassment, and underrepresentation in major industry spaces, overlooking the power they hold as creative forces and culture shifters.

For the upcoming Women’s History Month, GNN celebrates women who have been at the forefront of community building and creative expression, opening new spaces, building opportunities for others, and using their platform to rally for meaningful changes within and outside the system.

“The number of women behind the scenes remains relatively low,” shares Marie Lara Pauline Bobier, GNN’s events director. “While the music community is generally welcoming and respectful toward women, there are still instances in which they are made to feel that they must continually prove their credibility and competence in the field. This celebration is not only about championing female practitioners in music and entertainment, but also about recognizing the female fans and pro-women advocates who actively support the local music scene.”

Enter Lilet Fair, a multi-format festival that features the outstanding and emerging talents in music, art, comedy, improvisation, and drag. The event’s name is derived from the iconic Lilith Fair, an all-female music festival organized by Sarah McLachlan in the ‘90s.

“Lilet Fair is a women-centered music and creative space that amplifies not just performers, but the women working behind the scenes who power the industry,” says Milley Habito, the production head of GNN. “By creating intentional platforms like this, we foster representation, mentorship, and real opportunities, proving that when women are centered, the entire music community thrives.”

Headlining Lilet Fair are some of the most prominent artists in the local music scene, including pop-rock powerhouse Barbie Almalbis, whose introspective songwriting and intricate guitar work influenced generations of Filipino singer-songwriters and bands. Also joining the bill are Clara Benin, syd hartha, Janine Berdin, August Wahh, Coeli, and Shanne Dandan.

Other artists in different disciplines are set to take the center stage, including A II Z, a comedy duo formed through their mutual love for improv comedy and music, and Lady Boses (Jeannie Lacay, Di Aaron and Khaye Asco), a group of all-female stand-up comedians who advocate for women to take up space in comedy, in the workplace, and in everything in general. M1SS Jade So and Inah Demons are set to complete the incredible roster of performers, representing drag.

Apart from show-stopping performances, the event is also packed with activities and booths run by women themselves: Drafts Gift Shop (flowers), FiliFerniana (live art photobooth), Maan Simbajon (tattoo), Putik Friends (ceramics), and more!

For its pre-event programming, GNN will host a panel discussion featuring women who are making significant contributions to the independent music scene behind the scenes: Alex Majam, co-owner of Jess & Pat’s; Bel Certeza, label head at EMI Records Philippines; Katrina Romero, manager of Over October; Kris Rocha, founder and music photographer at Neon Oven; and Ziera De Veyra, head of Funky Beat Entertainment. The discussion is titled She Means Business: Women Paving The Way.

Lilet Fair will take place at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 3:00 PM onwards. Tickets are available online at PHP 800 for Early Bird and PHP 900 for Regular Admissions. Get your Early Bird tickets via https://liletfair2026.helixpay.ph/.

The track pairs modern pop ballad with groove-driven polish

Christian Bautista, known as Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, maintains his trademark romantic charm while experimenting with a new musical direction that combines a chic, modern edge with a nostalgic pop radiance.

Bautista confidently embraces the romantic love song template in his latest single under Sony Music Entertainment, “Sa’yo Lamang,” combining its feel-good vibes with elegant production and city pop beats. Imagine the neon lights of Tokyo in the 1980s at dusk, but the reassuring grandeur of the setting feels very Pinoy. That’s the sound of it.

“Sa’yo Lamang captures exactly where I am musically and emotionally: fully committed, joyful, and ready to connect,” shares the award-winning OPM icon. “This year I’m all in. I want listeners to feel uplifted, have fun, and start the year with good energy.”

Produced by Ziv, the track benefits from its intentional marriage of global and local flavors, past and present sounds, and the insistence of not wanting to be easily defined or pinned down. From slick arrangements to meticulous production, Ziv’s instincts for groove—particularly in the drum pattern and basslines—anchor the track’s smooth, vintage edge while allowing Bautista’s vocals to shine and charm their way through the listeners.

Christian Bautista describes his collaboration with Ziv as a game-changing experience. “His attention to detail in sound design and vocal production elevated every element, while his clear vision and collaborative approach pushed us to take creative risks. The process was smooth and professional from start to finish, and his contributions shaped a final mix that truly exceeded our expectations.”

The vibrant personality of “Sa’yo Lamang” seamlessly translates into its upcoming music video, which incorporates smooth retro styling, warm neon tones, and playful choreography. Designed to be a joyful night out, the MV captures intimate singing moments, carefree dancing, and lilting city snapshots that somehow mirror the easygoing vibe of the track. “There’s also a small Easter egg hidden in the karaoke machine: make sure you look for that,” Bautista adds.

The music video is directed by Tristan Ortega and conceptualized in collaboration with the Sony Music Philippines team and Balcony Productions, with creative direction by Rico Blanco.

As Bautista enters a fresh chapter in his career, fans can celebrate the occasion with him live on stage. He will be performing alongside Mark Bautista for a memorable evening featuring beloved classics and brand-new songs. Titled “Bautista x Bautista,” the concert is scheduled for March 6, 2026, at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City, with tickets available at  ticketnet.com.ph.

Bautista is under the management of NYMA Management.

In addition, Christian Bautista’s latest single, “Sa’yo Lamang,” will be released worldwide on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, across all digital streaming platforms through Sony Music Entertainment. The official music video will also premiere that day at 6:00 PM.