OPM Icon Hajji Alejandro Passes Away at 70

Tabloid lights and fan chants thundered across the Philippine Arena as SB19 launched their much-anticipated Simula at Wakas World Tour with back-to-back sold-out concerts on May 31 and June 1, 2025. The event marked the official release of their latest EP, Simula at Wakas, the final chapter in their celebrated trilogy following Pagsibol and Pagtatag!

A Grand Opening Like No Other
Night 1 of the tour sold out in just under seven hours—an incredible feat that made SB19 the first Filipino act to do so at the iconic Philippine Arena. Due to overwhelming demand, a second show was added, giving thousands more fans the chance to witness history unfold live. The two-night spectacle wasn’t just a concert—it was a statement: SB19 is here to dominate, not just in P-pop, but on a global stage.

A’TIN: The Heartbeat of the Movement
The success of the kickoff would not have been possible without A’TIN, SB19’s passionate and ever-creative fandom. Known for going above and beyond, A’TIN once again proved why they’re one of the most powerful fanbases in Asia.

From city-wide poster runs to digital billboards, fan-made trailers, radio ads, countdown threads, and even coffee shop collabs—A’TIN mobilized across platforms and cities to spread the word. Fan-led initiatives weren’t just promotional; they were celebrations of love and loyalty that mirrored the group’s own devotion to their craft.

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Some fans traveled across provinces (and even countries) just to attend the concert. Others distributed lightsticks and freebies at the venue, coordinated chants, and organized charity drives in honor of the tour. A’TIN didn’t just support the event—they amplified it.

A Sonic and Emotional Journey
Simula at Wakas is a sonic exploration of beginnings and endings, vulnerability and ambition. The EP features seven tracks:

• “DAM”
• “Time”
• “8TonBall”
• “Quit”
• “Shooting for the Stars”
• “DUNGKA!”
• “DAM (Extended Version)”

During the concert, SB19 delivered powerhouse performances that left fans in awe—from the hard-hitting energy of “DAM” to the emotional resonance of “DUNGKA!” Each member showcased growth, both vocally and in stage presence, proving why SB19 continues to raise the bar for what it means to be an artist in today’s landscape.

The Global Stage Awaits
Following the Philippine leg, SB19 is set to bring Simula at Wakas to fans across the globe, with stops in Taiwan, the U.S., Canada, Singapore, and the Middle East. The group’s evolution, paired with the unrelenting passion of A’TIN, ensures that this world tour is more than a performance—it’s a global cultural moment.

In a world of noise, SB19 and A’TIN remind us what happens when music meets purpose, and when fans become family.
From the simula to the wakas, the journey is unforgettable—and it’s only just begun.

Photo source: SB19 official page

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Freddie Aguilar, the iconic Filipino folk musician and one of the most influential figures in Original Pilipino Music (OPM), passed away on May 27, 2025, at the age of 72. His death was confirmed by multiple news outlets, including The Economic Times and GMA News.

A Voice for the People
Born Ferdinand Pascual Aguilar on February 5, 1953, in Santo Tomas, Isabela, Aguilar rose to fame with his 1978 hit “Anak,” a poignant ballad that resonated with audiences worldwide. The song sold over 33 million copies and was translated into 51 languages, making it the best-selling Philippine music record of all time.

Beyond “Anak,” Aguilar’s music often tackled themes of poverty, social injustice, and national identity. His rendition of “Bayan Ko” became an anthem for the opposition during the 1986 People Power Revolution, cementing his role as a voice for the marginalized.

A Lasting Legacy
Aguilar’s influence extended beyond music. He was a cultural icon whose work inspired generations of Filipinos to embrace their heritage and advocate for social change. His contributions to music and society have left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.

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Remembering Ka Freddie
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from fans and fellow artists alike, honoring Aguilar’s immense contribution to Philippine music and culture. He is survived by his wife and children, including daughter Maegan Aguilar, who had publicly reconciled with her father in recent years.

Freddie Aguilar’s music will continue to inspire and resonate, ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.

Asia’s Romantic Balladeer—award-winning singer, multi-platinum artist, actor, and host—Christian Bautista reaffirms his ties with GMA Network as he renews his contract, remaining a loyal Kapuso.

On May 6, 2025, Christian officially signed his contract renewal at Studio 6, GMA Network Center, marking over a decade of unwavering loyalty since joining the Kapuso family in 2013.

“GMA, you gave me a home, a platform, and the space to keep growing. Hindi niyo lang ako tinulungan as an artist—you remind me of what else I’m capable of,” Christian shared during his heartfelt thank-you speech.

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

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Present at the signing were top GMA Network executives: President and CEO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong, and Officer-in-Charge for the Entertainment Group and Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy.

Also joining Christian at the event from his management team is NYMA’s Chief Operating Officer and his business partner—and wife—Kat Ramnani-Bautista, whose presence highlighted the strong support system behind his success.

Also present at the contract signing were First Vice President and Head of International Operations, Mr. Joseph T. Francia; Vice President for Comedy, Infotainment, Game, and Reality Productions, Ms. Janine Piad-Nacar; Vice President for Musical, Variety, Specials, and Alternative Productions, Ms. Gigi Santiago-Lara; and Consultant for the Entertainment Group, Ms. Darling de Jesus-Bodegon, along with many other GMA officers who were there to show their support.

Kat Bautista, Christian’s manager, business partner, and wife, shared her pride in his milestone, “As his business partner and wife, I couldn’t be more proud of the longevity of his career, and he continues to prove that he still has so much more to offer. We’re truly grateful to GMA for giving him the space to grow and the platform to share his artistry.” She added, “For us at NYMA, it’s both an honor and a privilege to be working alongside a network that has supported him for over a decade. We deeply appreciate the trust and look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership.”

Christian has long established himself as one of GMA’s most versatile and beloved artists—from being a firm yet inspiring coach on The Clash to delivering standout performances every Sunday on All-Out Sundays. Beyond local stages, he continues to expand his pan-Asian presence through music and digital collaborations. Just recently, he was recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the World by The Outstanding Filipinos in America—an award he will be receiving this October in Las Vegas.

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To cap off the event, Christian serenaded the crowd with one of his timeless hits, The Way You Look at Me, as a heartfelt tribute to GMA Network and all attendees.

In his speech, Christian also expressed his gratitude to his management team: “To my NYMA family—thank you for being here, for guiding me, and for pushing me to explore new spaces. Thank you for showing the world the other side of me. The funnier side, the lighter side, the more human side. You’ve helped me connect with a whole new generation. And of course, to my wife, Kat—thank you for being my constant through it all.”

He didn’t forget the press and media, “To our media partners and members of the press—maraming salamat sa inyong walang sawang suporta. Thank you for helping amplify my milestones, for keeping my journey visible and relevant, and for sharing my story with the world. I truly appreciate all the time, effort, and space you’ve given me through the years.” Finally, to his ever-loyal fans, Christian Friends, “To my CFs and everyone who’s supported me from the very beginning, thank you for growing with me.”

Congratulations, Kapuso! Congratulations, Christian Bautista!

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

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