PH Senate honors SB19 for breakthrough global music stage

The Senate recently recognized P-pop group SB19 by adopting a resolution commending the group for becoming the first Filipinos to perform at the prestigious Lollapalooza Music Festival in Chicago, Illinois.

Senate Resolution No. 545, introduced and sponsored by Sen. Bam Aquino, cited SB19’s “outstanding achievements and contributions to the Philippine creative industries.”

The group, composed of John Paulo Nase (Pablo), Josh Cullen Santos (Josh), Stellvester Ajero (Stell), Felip Jhon Suson (Ken), and Justin De Dios (Justin), performed at Lollapalooza 2026 on July 30 at Grant Park in Chicago.

The Senate said the appearance marked a milestone for Filipino artists and reflected the growing international reach of Original Pilipino Music (OPM).

Aquino also cited SB19’s achievements on the Billboard charts, particularly “Bazinga,” which made the group the first Filipino act to top a Billboard chart after the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Trending Songs chart for seven consecutive weeks in January 2022.

The senator also noted SB19’s participation in international music fests, including Summer Sonic 2026 in Osaka and Tokyo, Japan.

According to Aquino, the group’s performance on the international stage have helped raise the profile of OPM and Philippine popular culture before audiences overseas.

The resolution also recognized several of SB19’s songs, including “Gento,” “Go Up,” “Bazinga,” “Dungka,” and “Visa,” for contributing to contemporary Filipino music and showcasing Philippine culture.

Aquino said SB19’s achievements also demonstrated the economic potential of the country’s creative sector, particularly when Filipino artists and other creative workers are given opportunities and support.

“SB19’s success is also a testament to the immense potential of our creative industries. When we provide opportunities and support to our artists, creators, musicians, dancers, producers, and other creative workers, we are not merely creating entertainment: we are generating jobs, creating opportunities, and establishing a stronger global presence for Filipino culture,” Aquino explained.

“And perhaps that is SB19’s most significant contribution. On every stage they grace, they carry their Filipino identity with them. They did not have to abandon who they are to gain global acceptance; instead, it is precisely that identity that they proudly showcase,” he added.