Music is woven into the soul of the Philippines — echoing in the streets, flowing with the tides, and thriving in every cultural celebration. From indigenous rhythms to modern anthems, each region carries its own sound, shaped by history and tradition. Whether it’s the soothing serenades of kundiman, the pulsating beats of kulintang, or the vibrant sounds of contemporary OPM, music defines the Filipino identity.
With Sunlight Air, experiencing the nation’s diverse musical heritage has never been easier. As a boutique airline based in Clark, Pampanga, Sunlight Air provides seamless connections to key destinations across the Philippines, operating from Clark International Airport to Busuanga, Caticlan, Cebu, Panglao, Siargao, and more. As Sunlight Air embraces its new chapter with a fresh look and expanded routes, it continues to champion travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary — bringing passengers closer to the heart of the country’s music and culture.
Here are six destinations that define the heartbeat of Filipino music — and how to get there.
Boracay – Where the Shoreline Sings
Beyond its powdery sand and pristine waters, Boracay is a premier destination for electrifying nightlife. The island’s music scene thrives at every turn, from soulful acoustic sets by the shore to pulse-pounding beats in its clubs, defining its distinct energy.
Renowned beachfront bars like Exit Bar, OM Boracay, and Summer Place showcase a dynamic fusion of reggae, EDM, and acoustic performances, while fire dancers move in sync with tribal beats at sundown. The island also plays host to music festivals, including the much-anticipated comeback of the HYDRO Music Festival — proving that in Boracay, the party never truly stops.
Cebu – The Guitar Capital and Cradle of Visayan Music
Cebu’s music history is deeply tied to its craftsmanship and storytelling. As the guitar capital of the Philippines, the province has produced some of the finest luthiers, with shops in Lapu-Lapu City creating world-class guitars. Beyond instruments, Cebu has a rich Visayan music tradition — where vocal music plays an important role in daily life, from lullabies and love songs to work songs that echo through the fields and shores.
Legendary Cebuana singer Pilita Corrales, known as Asia’s Queen of Songs, further cemented Cebu’s musical legacy with her timeless ballads. Classics like “Matud Nila” and “Usahay” have stood the test of time, their heartfelt lyrics capturing the essence of Visayan romance and longing. Beyond tradition, Cebu also boasts a thriving pop and rock scene, producing notable artists like Wonggoys, Urbandub, and Missing Filemon, each adding a contemporary edge to the city’s evolving sound.
To fully grasp Cebu’s music culture, one must witness its most electrifying celebration. Every January, the Sinulog Festival ignites the city in a grand display of rhythm and devotion, where pounding drums and resounding chants echo its rich history and spiritual heritage. From the masterful craftsmanship of its luthiers to the soul-stirring ballads of its finest voices, Cebu’s music stands as an enduring testament to its cultural depth and artistic excellence.
Cagayan de Oro – The Beating Drums of Mindanao
Known as the “City of Golden Friendship,” Cagayan de Oro is a melting pot of cultures — and its music reflects this rich diversity. The city plays a crucial role in preserving the kulintang, an ancient gong ensemble deeply rooted in Mindanaoan and Maranao traditions.
Festivals like the Kagay-an Festival celebrate indigenous rhythms, while local bars and music halls cultivate a thriving contemporary scene. With homegrown talents like Arthur Nery, DJ Loonyo, and TJ Monterde making waves in the industry, CDO’s soundscape blends tradition with modern influences. From the hypnotic beats of Mindanaoan music to genre-defying fusion, the city pulses with a rhythm that is both historical and ever-evolving.
Coron – The Echoes of Indigenous Music
Coron is home to a significant population of the indigenous Tagbanua people, one of the oldest ethnic groups in the Philippines. Their music, deeply rooted in ritual and nature, features chants, gong ensembles, and handmade instruments passed down through generations. Traditional performances accompany sacred ceremonies and community celebrations, preserving a rich musical heritage that remains central to their way of life.
Beyond their music, the Tagbanua are highly regarded for their craftsmanship, excelling in weaving, pottery, and the creation of traditional musical instruments. Exploring Coron offers more than just breathtaking scenery — it provides a rare glimpse into the enduring artistry and cultural traditions of one of the country’s most ancient communities.
Manila – The Capital of Filipino Music
If there is one place that embodies the essence of Filipino music, it is Manila. As the forerunner of OPM, the capital has long been the epicenter of the country’s music industry—producing icons, nurturing rising artists, and serving as the heartbeat of live performances, from arts festivals and arena concerts to intimate gigs tucked in every corner. Fittingly, Manila is also the birthplace of the Manila Sound — a genre that shaped the city’s sonic identity in the 1970s. Blending disco, funk, and rock, it mirrored the rhythm of the city’s streets.
Beyond its storied past, Manila continues to be a powerhouse in the music scene. The Metropolitan Theater and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) remain pillars of orchestral and theatrical excellence, while venues like 12 Monkeys, 123Block, Jess & Pat’s, and saGuijo cultivate the country’s independent and alternative acts. Whether it’s the nostalgia of Manila Sound or the electric energy of today’s music scene, one thing is certain — this city never skips a beat.
Siargao – Surf, Sun, and Soulful Sounds
Siargao is the heart of Philippine surf culture, and its music scene flows seamlessly with its free-spirited energy. From reggae grooves that echo the island’s tropical essence to indie-folk melodies that capture the soul of slow, sun-drenched days, Siargao’s soundtrack is as diverse as its waves.
Beyond its must-visit spots like Guyam Island, Maasin River, and Naked Island, immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant soundscape by exploring its music scene. Popular venues like Barbosa, Harana Surf Resort, and Mama Coco regularly host live performances, offering a mix of reggae, folk, and acoustic sets that define Siargao’s rhythm.
How to Get There with Sunlight Air
With Sunlight Air’s expanding domestic routes and enhanced flight frequencies, reaching these culturally rich locations is seamless. At a recent media launch at Century City Mall, Makati, the airline unveiled an exciting TVC featuring Sunlight Air Ambassador Yassi Pressman, reinforcing its commitment to making travel both premium and accessible.
As part of its 2025 expansion, Sunlight Air announced upcoming routes, a loyalty program (Sunlight Air Miles), and partnerships with local businesses like But First, Coffee. With locally inspired in-flight meals and signature Filipino hospitality, every adventure feels like an extension of the destinations you’re heading to.
Book your flight at sunlightair.ph and let your next story take flight — with a soundtrack to match.