On Dec. 11, indie folk-pop band Ben&Ben announced through an Instagram post that they will be parting ways with their drummer, Jam Villanueva, by the end of 2026.
In the announcement, Jam shared a heartfelt message reflecting on her experiences, dreams, and her journey toward becoming a musician since her younger years.
She described her bandmates as “eight other amazing human beings,” and shared that meeting them “was the start of the biggest, craziest in a good way, most fun, and most surreal part of my life. Along the way, I learned many important and crucial life lessons. I gained deep friendships and a chosen family I know I will have and cherish forever.”
Jam also expressed her deep appreciation for Liwanags, the band’s dedicated fans.
“I also saw the power of community. You, Liwanag, and how the collective love and appreciation for one thing, our music, can bring it to the furthest places and the most unexpected stages,” she wrote, before asking fans to help make her final year with the band fun and memorable, hoping to still see them at shows, events, and hangouts.
"In 2024, I got married. And in April 2025, I injured my wrist. These two events have developed and strengthened my values and in turn, redefined the life I see myself living.”
She continued, “Next year, 2026 will be the last year with the band. Yes, ako yung saranggola. The greatest and most important part of all of this is the friendship and relationships I’ve gained through it all.”
Earlier this April, Ben&Ben released the single “Saranggola,” a tribute to the group’s friendship, shared journey, and their eight years together as a band.
