Thousands of music fans gathered at the Filinvest City Events Grounds in Alabang on June 26 as Nescafé Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival returned with a lineup of some of the biggest names in Original Pilipino Music.
This year's festival featured performances from IV of Spades, Maki, BGYO, Angela Ken, Arthur Miguel, Pauline Anne, Earl Agustin, Never The Strangers, and KAIA, among others.
Before the main performances, aspiring musicians competed in the festival's Battle of the Bands, where UMAK Jammers from the University of Makati emerged as champions. The band took home the competition's ₱100,000 grand prize after an emotional victory.
Singer-songwriter Earl Agustin was among the first performers of the evening, performing his hit songs "Tibok," "Dalangin," "Pag-ibig na Ikaw at Ako," and "Dito Ka Sa'kin." During his set, he stepped off the stage to sing with fans gathered near the barricade.
IV of Spades followed with performances of "Monster," "Come Inside of My Heart," "Mundo," "Aura," and their latest hit "Kabisado." The band also thanked fans for their continued support of Original Pilipino Music.
P-pop girl group KAIA also performed their newly released single "Hulog" for the first time before a festival audience.
BGYO then took the stage, performing songs including a track from their latest EP. The group also shared updates on their recent television and variety show projects before going down from the stage to interact with fans.
The group also celebrated the birthday of its youngest member, Nate, who thanked supporters for the birthday greetings and their continued support.
Closing the festival was Maki, who performed several of his hit songs, including "Namumula," "Kahel na Langit," "Kailan," "Dilaw," and "Habangbuhay Pansamantala."
During his set, Maki was joined by Angela Ken for a duet of "Sikulo." He also interacted with a fan who shared a story about being ghosted. Responding with advice, the singer turned the moment into a performance of "Dilaw," drawing cheers from the audience.
Maki wrapped up the night with "Saan?" as fireworks lit up the sky, bringing this year's edition of Nescafé Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival to a close.
Fusion is an annual celebration of Original Pilipino Music that brings together some of the country's biggest artists and emerging talents on one stage. First launched in 2014, the festival continues to champion Filipino music by showcasing diverse genres and connecting OPM artists with fans through live performances and unique concert experiences.
