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Fans of BTS can discover secret rewards on Google Search before the new album Arirang is released

If you’ve been counting down the days until March 20, you’re definitely not the only one. The comeback era of BTS for their album ARIRANG is now in full swing, and while fans eagerly await the new lead single Swimming, Google has turned that excitement into an interactive game.

The BTS Scavenger Hunt has returned on Google Search, serving as a fun digital tribute to the ARMY fandom. For those who remember the famous purple balloon Easter egg from years ago, this version is like a 2026 upgrade. It’s an interactive experience that allows fans to unlock exclusive content and rewards for each member simply by doing what they already do—searching for the group online.

Joining the quest is really simpler than learning the choreography for “Dynamite.” Just type “BTS” into the Google Search bar. You’ll notice a small bottle (looking very much like a message across the sea) on the bottom right of your screen. Click it, and you’re in.

The hunt is a series of trivia questions and puzzles that test your knowledge of the group’s decade-long journey. It’s everything from their first Billboard No. 1 to lyric-based emoji puzzles that might leave you feeling a bit like a “Hooligan” if you get them wrong.

Every quest solved brings you closer to the highly anticipated ARIRANG album. As you navigate the scavenger hunt, you’ll unlock 14 collectible cards—exclusive tracklist art featuring the actual handwriting of the members.

Get your first look at the tracklist through the members’ own pens—from the bold steady lines of Jungkook’s “SWIM” to the personal touch of Jin’s “Merry Go Round.” These aren’t just rewards; they are the first pieces of the ARIRANG puzzle. Start your hunt before they’re gone.

Don’t run through it all at once! While the hunt is ongoing now, Google is staggering the excitement. Right now, you can start your initial quest to find all 14 Rewards tagged as “Your love songs”. On March 9 & March 16, new “sealed” quests will unlock, giving you more to find as we get closer to the big day. Then on March 20 comes the final payoff as the album officially drops.

Whether you’re a student taking a break from the “blood, sweat, and tears” of studying or a professional secretly fangirling during a meeting, this quest is a fun way to pass the time while waiting for BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE on Netflix.

Want to discover the hidden melody? Simply search for BTS on Google Search and start the scavenger hunt yourself!

 

 

Entertainment

Shakira and Beéle release new single ALGO TÚ

GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Shakira and rising Colombian star Beéle have released their new track ALGO TÚ. Produced by A.C., Flambo, Shakira, and Beéle, the track is out now via Sony Music Latin/5020 Records.

Shakira and Beéle debuted the track live this past weekend at Mexico City’s Zócalo, marking the largest event held there in history. Performing “ALGO TÚ” for over 400,000 fans, Shakira and Beéle electrified the city square and built incredible hype for the song’s release. Their range of styles blend perfectly on the track, delivering an incredible Latin & Afro-fusion hit with a nod to autochthonous instruments and sounds such as the Colombian gaita (pan flute), evoking the city of Barranquilla where both Shakira and Beéle were born. This is the second collaboration between Shakira and Beéle, who previously worked together on a 2025 version of her global hit, “Hips Don’t Lie,” which featured Ed Sheeran and Beéle for the Spotify Anniversary celebration of her 2005 album Oral Fixation, Vol. 2.

This concert has only built more excitement for Shakira’s upcoming return to Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, where she will take the stage for this year’s Todo Mundo No Rio concert on May 2nd. This free show will be a vibrant spectacle featuring Shakira playing her greatest hits across her entire career, continuing her epic world tour throughout 2026.

The release of “ALGO TÚ” comes on the heels of Shakira being crowned by Billboard as having the “highest-grossing Hispanic tour of all time” with her recent Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, achieving a gross revenue of $421.6 million, inclusive of 82 stadium shows all across the US and Latin America with over 3.3 million people in attendance.

Building on this exciting year, Shakira has just been announced as a 2026 nominee for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This exciting honor will be voted upon and then announced during the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

 

Entertainment

James Reid hits the road with “Traffic” music video

Directed by Jonathan Tal Placido, with creative direction by Issa Pressman, the visual narrative captures the frustration of driving around the city while stuck in heavy traffic

James Reid turns urban frustration into inspiration in the music video of “Traffic,” his latest single under Careless Philippines and Sony Music Entertainment. Caught in the gridlock of Metro Manila, the video finds James driving around the standstill roads, visibly stressed and tired, yet holding on to the thought that the moment, like traffic itself, will soon pass.

The music video was helmed by Jonathan Tal Placido of Philippine-based production house Toothless, with creative direction by Issa Pressman. The concept revolves around the reality of being stuck in traffic, while also capturing the horrors that Filipino commuters and drivers had to endure on a daily basis while navigating the capital’s fast-paced grind.

“Traffic” marks the first official 2026 single of James Reid, following last year’s release of “You Deserve It,” which was featured on Penshoppe’s All Together Now campaign. The catchy pop tune was written by James Reid, along with Luke April and Nhiko Sabiano.

“At the time, I wanted to write a song that’s relatable to Filipinos in terms of concept and sound,” James reveals. “It just so happened that we all experienced traffic that day, and it felt like the song wrote itself after we locked in on that idea.”

The track also reflects James’ evolving artistic direction, molded by his ongoing exploration of his Western and Filipino roots. With the help of his collaborators, Luke April and Nhiko Sabiano, “Traffic” gives listeners a taste of James Reid’s more accessible, homebound sound, without sacrificing his globe-trotting influences.

The award-winning multi-hyphenate adds, “We aimed to create a classic upbeat OPM track with a fresh twist—nostalgic at its core, but layered with unique sounds and ear candy to give it a distinct edge.”

James Reid’s “Traffic” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The official music video drops on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 6:00 P.M. on James Reid’s official YouTube page.

 

Entertainment

All Of The Noise 2026 expands to 3 days, amplifying Filipino and Asian Music on the global stage

Live performances, documentary premieres, networking sessions, and industry talks converge in TRIN’s most expansive edition yet.

The Rest Is Noise (TRIN), a music curation and events production outfit based in the Philippines, returns with the fourth edition of All Of The Noise 2026. The showcase and conference event will take place in three venues across Metro Manila: Astbury Makati (April 17 and 19), Sari-Sari in Makati City (April 17 and 19), and 123 Block in Mandaluyong City (April 18).

This year’s edition will feature dynamic, multi-format music programming centered on community building, cross-cultural collaboration, and visibility, positioning Filipino and Asian music as vital forces within the global creative economy.

“This year’s programming is more expansive than ever, growing from two days to three, with each day offering a different entry point into the experience and live music happening throughout,” shares Mary Christine Galang, co-founder and creative director of The Rest Is Noise PH. “We’re welcoming more than 20 artists this year, including Filipino artists from across the country as well as international acts from across Asia-Pacific.”

Originally conceived as a year-end, midsized music festival, the fourth iteration of All Of The Noise 2026 brings together live performances, talks and panel discussions, documentary screenings, a music market, networking, and private studio sessions into one shared experience.

“We want people to come in not only to discover artists, but to engage with the ideas, conversations, and communities that shape the music around them,” Galang adds. “That has always been at the core of what we do at TRIN.”

Live music programming

The live music showcase will run in multiple venues across three dates, with highly anticipated performances featuring New Zealand’s Phoebe Rings, Indonesia’s Grrrl Gang, Arash Buana, and Gavendri, Singapore’s Shye and Pines, and Taiwan’s Heng Jones.

Other performers include BP Valenzuela, Fitterkarma, SOS, Ourselves the Elves, Elijah Canlas, DJ Love (Davao), VVINK, Playertwo, fern, August Wahh, School Girl Classic (Cebu), Delinquent Society (Davao), Alyson, Novocrane, Amateurish (Baguio), Carousel Casualties, Magiliw Street, and kyleaux.

Music Conference

All Of The Noise 2026 announces the return of its flagship conference program, Cut Through The Noise. Designed to address the evolving needs of the local and regional music sectors, the program will feature panel discussions and keynote presentations addressing the most pressing trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping today’s music ecosystem.

Each panel will have a moderator and resource speakers who will discuss each respective topic, providing insights and expert opinions. From market development and cross-border collaboration to innovation, policy, and audience growth, Cut Through The Noise aims to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and networks necessary to navigate an increasingly competitive global landscape. Panelists and speakers will be announced in the coming days.

The topics include:

  • Inside a Thriving Regional Scene: What the music community in Baguio City tells us about decentralization, crossover, and cultural sustainability
  • Curating Across Cultures: Programming music festivals in Asia’s diverse markets
  • Dissecting Diary Ng Panget soundtrack: A poptimist’s dream
  • Indie Cred vs. Commercial Pressure: how labels grow without losing trust, taste, and cultural capital
  • Unlocking the potential of Southeast Asia: findings, insights, and discussions in the world’s next music powerhouse

 Music-themed Documentary Screenings

This year, All Of The Noise 2026 will feature local and international music documentaries that intersect music, movements, culture, and politics through its Echoes of the Noise program. This year’s film selection includes the international premiere of Alulu Kuo’s Elephant Gym: More Real Than Dreams, which captures the band’s journey as they faced a potential breakup before a world tour and explored their unique musical world. The Philippine screening will also include a talkback with Elephant Gym’s very own Tell Chang.

Other music documentaries that will be screened include Nolan Bernardino’s Rosas: The Song. The Journey, which became an anthem of hope during the national elections in 2022; and Frazier de Mesa’s This is Hannah+Gabi, which explores the beloved band’s thoughts and process in music-making and performing from the perspective of the filmmaker.

Culture and Community

“Beyond the performances, we’re especially proud of this year’s curation of documentary films, cultural discussions, and community-driven moments that create space for deeper exchange,” Galang explains. “AOTN 2026 is about presenting independent music as something immersive, thoughtful, and deeply connected to culture and community. It’s also about underscoring the Philippines as an important music market—both in the way we understand ourselves and in the way we connect to the rest of the world.

All Of The Noise 2026 is also supported by its international and local music partners ONErpm, Symphonic Distribution, Astbury, 123 Block, Sari-Sari, Nyou Consultancy, and Guevarra’s.

Ticket Details

Tickets are available via allofthenoise2026.helixpay.ph with the following packages:

PHP 999 – 3-day pass: (access to Days 1, 2 & 3), inclusive of all programs

PHP 400 – Day 1 (access to April 17 program – Friday), inclusive of all programs

PHP 700 – Day 2 (access to April 18 program – Saturday), inclusive of all programs

PHP 400 – Day 3 (access to April 19 program – Sunday), inclusive of all programs

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

In a historic first for Philippine music documentaries, Abramorama purchases Eraserheads: Combo On The Run prior of the official SXSW 2026 event

The distribution giant’s first Philippine documentary will screen in multiple cinemas across US and Canada on April 24, 2026

Abramorama has obtained the North American theater rights to film Eraserheads: Combo On The Run, which is the distributor’s first Philippine documentary. This is a historic first.

After a successful international festival run, the documentary film becomes part of Abramorama’s lineup of high-profile music films, which also includes Radiohead’s Meeting People Is Easy (Grant Gee), The Beatles: Eight Days (Ron Howard), and The Sparks Brothers (Edgar Wright).

The acquisition will be marked by an official event at SXSW 2026 next month to celebrate its forthcoming theatrical release in Canada and the United States.

Directed and produced by Maria Diane Ventura, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run tells the story of the Philippines’ most influential band, tracing their meteoric rise from their formation in UP Diliman to becoming a defining voice of a generation, their painful breakup, and their eventual resurgence years later.

Set against the backdrop of the Philippines’ shifting socio-political landscape, the film situates the band’s journey within a country grappling with deep political polarization, reflecting how their music and story became intertwined with the nation’s cultural memory.

Blending intimate interviews, never-before-seen archival footage, and unfiltered behind the scenes access, the film explores fame, fracture, growth, legacy, and the enduring bond between the band and generations shaped by their music.

“I’m incredibly excited about this partnership with Abramorama,” said director and producer Maria Diane Ventura. “They are the perfect home for this film, not just because of their legacy in music documentaries, but because they understand stories that resonate on a deeper cultural level. While the film is rooted in the Eraserheads’ music, it ultimately speaks to division, reconciliation, and healing during a turbulent political moment. Those themes feel especially relevant today, not only for Filipinos, but for audiences everywhere.”

Ventura adds, “It’s also deeply important to me that this film helps reintroduce the band and their music to a new generation, and that it creates space for Filipino stories, nuance, and complexity to be seen with greater depth. Filipinos are part of so many communities around the world, and I hope this film allows people to see us more fully, while also reminding audiences more broadly how powerful it is to feel seen in culture. When people recognize themselves in a story, it creates empathy, connection, and a sense of shared humanity across communities. Ultimately, this film is about how stories and music can bring us closer to one another, even across divides and differences.”

The film has already achieved a number of significant firsts, such as being the first Filipino music documentary to be presented at San Diego Comic-Con and the first Filipino film to be given the broadest theater distribution in the Philippines by Warner Bros.

It has also received recognition on the international festival circuit, including Doc Berlin, the Liverpool Film Festival, and the 44th Annual Hawaii International Film Festival, where it screened as part of the official Spotlight on the Philippines program and won Best International Documentary at the Ierapetra International Feature Documentary Festival in Greece.

Visit eraserheadsfilm.com for announcements, updates, and ticket details.

Trailer:

https://youtu.be/HlAt0p2kQbM?si=cVCbqXSj-mMRnhnF

Entertainment

On new 2026 EP, Ore, Filipino-Japanese artist ena mori sharpens the edges

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.

 

 

Entertainment

Barq turns grind into power on new single “TUMATAK”

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.

 

Entertainment

From Davao to the World: Hara drops pre-debut single “My Love”

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Barbie Almalbis, Clara Benin, Janine Berdin, syd hartha, and more to headline GNN’s Lilet Fair this March 2026

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/.

 

 

 

Entertainment

Christian Bautista will release the city pop-inspired anthem “Sa’yo Lamang” in 2026, bringing a new sound

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.