Universal Records Managing Director Kathleen Dy-Go Is Billboard Philippines’ Executive of the Year - OPM Vanguard

Universal Records Managing Director Kathleen Dy-Go Is Billboard Philippines’ Executive of the Year - OPM Vanguard

Billboard Philippines recently honored notable Filipina executives for their outstanding contributions to the local music scene. At their Women In Music: The Executive Edition awards night last March 28, 2025 held at Old Manila in The Peninsula Manila, Universal Records Managing Director Kathleen Dy-Go was given the Executive of the Year - OPM Vanguard award.

Multimedia star Donny Pangilinan presented the OPM Vanguard award to Kathleen Dy-Go. “One can say that our next honoree was born into the music industry quite literally,” he said. “The daughter of Philippine record industry pioneer Dr. James Dy, she grew up surrounded by artists who occasionally visited her family’s home, and watched as her older siblings worked with music stars as they performed at concerts and variety shows, deepening her passion for music, particularly for the homegrown kind.”

NOVOCRANE’s "Safe and Sound" Captures the Beauty and Weight of Emotional Solitude

NOVOCRANE, the indie rock project of Kylene Sevillano, returns with Safe and Sound, an introspective anthem that wrestles with the paradox of emotional isolation—where solitude can feel like both a sanctuary and a prison. Built on fuzzy guitars, washed-out melodies, and a raw, unfiltered edge, NOVOCRANE thrives in the space between nostalgia and noise, distilling deeply personal emotions into a sound that feels both distant and familiar.

Rooted in the grit of ‘90s indie rock, interwoven with oscillating shoegaze textures and lush dream pop, Safe and Sound captures the push-and-pull of self-imposed solitude. The song’s verses float in a dazed detachment, only to swell into a cathartic chorus—walls of sound crashing like waves, echoing the realization that shutting the world out can be just as confining as it is protective.

“In Safe and Sound, I wanted to portray that feeling of isolation as a form of freedom,” says Sevillano. “But over time, you realize that it’s okay to want connection, to seek someone to share your life with.”

JERGE joins Spotify RADAR Philippines 2025, releases new single “Kalul’wa”

The track captures the sound of quiet isolation, trauma, and healing

Rising artist JERGE proves that he’s more than just a viral sensation. Known for his comedy skits on TikTok, the multi-talented artist continues to expand his portfolio as a recording star, earning a coveted spot in Spotify RADAR Philippines Class of 2025. This achievement places him alongside the esteemed ranks of emerging Filipino artists, including Dilaw, Ena Mori, BGYO, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT, Costa Cashman, and more.

Expressing his disbelief and gratitude, JERGE took to Instagram to reflect on his journey. “Music has been my way to tell a story, express my emotions, and connect with people since day one. And now, with Spotify and the RADAR program, I get to share my world with even more listeners.”

Abi Marquez Earns Back-to-Back Webby Nominations After Last Year’s Win

Filipino culinary content creator and "Lumpia Queen" Abi Marquez has once again been nominated for the prestigious Webby Awards in the Creators - Food & Drink category. Following her Webby People’s Voice Award win in 2024, this second consecutive nomination cements her status as a leading figure in the digital food space and a proud representative of Filipino cuisine on the global stage.

Abi has captivated audiences with her innovative, mouthwatering recipes, making Filipino food more accessible and appreciated worldwide. Her dedication to storytelling through food has not only earned her a loyal following but also elevated Filipino cuisine in the international culinary scene.

Last year, in 2024, she won the Webby People’s Voice Award, a testament to her strong connection with her audience and her incredible talent.

Taiwanese band The Chairs to headline this year’s edition of All Of The Noise 2025

The Taipei-based soft-rock trio will be returning for the second time in Manila, joining Singapore’s San The Wordsmith, Philippines’ SOS and ena mori, Indonesia’s Logic Lost, and Thailand’s KIKI among the performers of the multi-format music event

Taiwanese indie pop trio The Chairs are set to headline this year’s edition of All Of The Noise (AOTN), a two-day music and culture event taking place at Astbury Makati on April 4-5, 2025.

Returning to the Philippines for the second time, the Taipei-based trio will be performing a special set for their Filipino fans, who expressed their excitement hearing The Chairs’ brand of ‘60s and ‘70s-inspired psych pop in an intimate live setting.

Known for their evocative songwriting that straddles between “somber love poems” and “joyful, laid-back summer anthems,” The Chairs have carved out a distinct space in the global indie music landscape, particularly in East and Southeast Asia. With four critically acclaimed albums to their name, the band’s artistry has been recognized with Best Group honors at the 30th Golden Melody Awards, Taiwan's most prestigious music accolade.

Ace Banzuelo explores the hopeful, more meaningful side of love in “Kilala”

The track sets the tone for his new era in music

Ace Banzuelo examines the beauty of fleeting yet profound connections in his new single “Kilala,” released under Sony Music Entertainment.

A dreamy, melancholic pop track, “Kilala” revels in romantic longing: those heart-fluttering moments that often escape definition. In Ace’s universe, love doesn’t always require shout-from-the-rooftops kind of admission or grand declarations. Sometimes, it lingers in the quiet, unscripted moments that leave imprint long after they pass.

“You may not realize it, but it could be love,” he adds. “This song is about not wanting to lose someone you know you have a great connection with. A lot of people can relate to this.”

KAIA collaborates with hitmaker Zack Tabudlo on the lighthearted pop banger “TANGA”

The song tackles a kind of love that borders on blind innocence

Filipino girl group KAIA continues to deliver another inescapable bop in the form of “TANGA”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment. Produced and composed by Zack Tabudlo, one of the country’s most sought-after hitmakers, the track blends pop confection with a lightness and ‘90s R&B flair.

For the five-piece alphas, the opportunity to collaborate with Zack Tabudlo was a dream come true.