The Philippine Senate honored P-pop group SB19 on Monday, Sept. 28, for its achievements on the global stage and contributions to Philippine music and the creative industry.
Sen. Bam Aquino said it was important to recognize the group’s accomplishments, noting that Filipino artists who perform internationally help create opportunities for others who aspire to follow the same path.
“Everytime a Filipino artist steps onto the global stage, they open that stage a little wider for the next Filipino who dreams of doing the same,” Aquino said.
Aquino also highlighted the potential of the country’s creative industries, saying support for artists, musicians, dancers, producers and other creative workers can create jobs and opportunities while strengthening the global presence of Filipino culture.
He said SB19’s success also showed that Filipino artists do not have to abandon their identity to gain international recognition.
“At marahil yun ang pinakamahalagang ambag ng SB19. Sa bawat entabladong kanilang inaakyatan, dala po nila ang kanilang pagiging Pilipino,” Aquino said.
“Hindi nila kinailangang iwan ang kanilang identity upang tanggapin ng mundo. Sa halip, yun po mismo ang kanilang pinagmamalaki,” he added.
Aquino said he also filed a proposed measure on Monday aimed at supporting the growth of the country’s creative economy. The proposal was developed with SB19 and 1Z Entertainment, with consultations with other creatives expected to continue.
According to the senator, Senate Resolution No. 545, filed on July 30, recognizes SB19’s significant contribution to OPM and the Philippine creative industry.
In a social media post on Monday, Aquino described SB19 as the “Kings of P-Pop” and cited the group’s historic performance at Lollapalooza Chicago 2026, where it became the first homegrown Filipino act to perform at the music festival.
SB19 performed a one-hour, 10-song set at the Allianz Stage in Grant Park on July 30, featuring songs including “Dam,” “Gento” and “MAPA.”
Aquino also cited the group’s performance at Summer Sonic 2026 in Japan and the Billboard chart milestones of “Bazinga” and “GENTO.”
From its early “GO UP” days to performing on major international stages, Aquino said SB19’s journey showed how far Filipino artists can go with sufficient support and opportunities.
He also thanked SB19 for its “Simula at Wakas” (SAW) photobook set and congratulated members Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken and Justin.
“Ang tagumpay ninyo ay tagumpay ng musikang Pilipino at ng buong Philippine creative industry,” Aquino said.
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