Imagine this: SB19’s Pablo collaborating with Fil-Am creatives behind some of BTS’ biggest hits. Yes! 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year, and it’s set to be a great start for Filipino American creatives and artists. An exciting initiative at the start of the year called Building Bridges Manila is taking this competitive spirit to a global level.
As Filipino talents continue to shine worldwide, there has been an evident surge in the global music scene. In 2024, Filipino American talents have garnered attention. Sofronio Vasquez made history as the first Filipino and Asian to win The Voice US. Meanwhile, Filipino artist Sarah Geronimo was named one of Billboard’s Global Force awardees, and the Filipino girl group BINI captured the world’s attention with their rapidly growing fan base and upcoming world tour.
To further elevate Filipino talent on the global stage, Mono Stereo Groove, an API music collective that produces some of the largest AAPI songwriting camps, is set to “build the bridge” between Fil-Am music creatives and Filipino artists, songwriters, and producers at Wild Grass Recording Studio in Manila. The week-long event aims to foster cultural exchange and collaboration between Asian music creators.
The initiative, which bridges creative minds from around the world, is spearheaded by Rosemarie Tan, founder of Mono Stereo Groove, in partnership with Sony Music Philippines.
Building Bridges Manila offers a rare opportunity for 10 Fil-Am creatives to immerse themselves in the Philippines’ ever-growing music scene from Jan. 20th through Jan. 24th. Co-hosted by the talented Filipina artists, Kiana V and Tiana Kocher, these selected artists will collaborate with some of the country’s most notable talents, such as Pablo of P-Pop supergroup SB19, indie sensation Clara Benin, and rising stars Ace Banzuelo, Paolo Sandejas, and dwta with Jolianne, Kai Buzon and “Randomantic” himself, James Reid.
The program goes beyond collaboration as it also celebrates heritage while exploring new creative directions, allowing Fil-Am artists to connect with their roots while creating innovative and globally resonant music. And these creative minds? They are behind the hits of K-pop superstars BTS, Black Eyed Peas and more!
In an age where representation and cultural exchange are vital, Building Bridges Manila stands at the forefront of enriching the global music industry. By offering Fil-Am artists a chance to collaborate with local Filipino talents and work alongside renowned international producers, the initiative aims to unlock new opportunities in the global market and deepen connections to their cultural heritage.
Through Building Bridges Manila, sponsored by Delimondo, Philippine Airlines & Wild Grass Studios, these talented artists will not only leave their mark in the music industry but also strengthen the bond that ties them to their Filipino roots, ensuring that their music resonates across the globe for years to come.
