Several lawmakers in the House of Representatives are seeking to formally recognize Filipino supergroup SB19 for their recent international achievements and their role in promoting P-pop, Filipino culture, and tourism on the global stage.
Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Javier Miguel "Javi" Benitez filed House Resolution No. 1280, commending the five-member group for their appointment as tourism ambassadors and their historic milestones in the United States, including performing at Lollapalooza 2026 and appearing at a Major League Baseball (MLB) game.
The resolution was introduced by Benitez and co-authored by Reps. Nelson Legacion, Sarah Jane Elago, and Kathryn Joyce Gorriceta.
Among the achievements cited in the measure was the Department of Tourism's (DOT) appointment of SB19 as the country's newest Tourism Ambassadors on July 26, adding to the group's previous designation as Youth and Sentro Rizal Ambassadors by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in 2021.
The resolution also highlighted the group's milestones in the United States.
On July 29, SB19 member Josh Cullen became the first member of a P-pop group to throw the ceremonial first pitch during a regular-season MLB game before the Chicago White Sox-New York Yankees matchup.
A day later, July 30, Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin became the first homegrown Filipino act to perform at Lollapalooza, delivering a 10-song set at the Allianz Stage in Chicago's Grant Park. Their performance included songs such as "DAM," "GENTO," and "MAPA."
Lawmakers also recognized the group's stage costumes, which featured Filipino-inspired elements, including designs influenced by the Ayala Museum's "Gold of Ancestors" collection, Ifugao brass pendants, and indigenous embroidery.
In the resolution, Benitez said SB19 has helped create opportunities for future Filipino artists while promoting the country's culture and tourism abroad.
"When our artists carry the country with them, they open doors no amount of promotion can buy. SB19 made room for the next Filipino act that follows. The work now is making sure the industries behind them, from music to tourism, are ready for the attention," Benitez said.
The resolution seeks the House's adoption of the measure and directs that copies be furnished to each member of SB19 in recognition of their contributions to promoting the Philippines on the global stage.
House Resolution No. 1280 is currently pending before the House Committee on Creative Industries.
