The Filipino Music Awards have come and gone, and yet the magic of local music remains.

For its first-ever edition, the awards shine a spotlight on the talent, passion, and creativity that define the Philippine music scene. From chart-topping hitmakers to seasoned icons, the evening’s winners represented the diverse sounds and stories that make Filipino music a cultural force.

Honoring the songs, albums, and artists that shaped the past year, the Filipino Music Awards celebrated not just commercial success, but artistic impact — spotlighting the voices and stories that challenge and inspire a whole nation. Whether it’s about holding those in power accountable or revealing more about matters of the heart, this year’s winning recordings, artists, and more were a testament to just how rich and impactful local music can be.

As we continue to look back on a monumental night for Philippine music, Billboard Philippines takes a look backstage into the first-ever Filipino Music Awards, featuring just some of the night’s most memorable wins. 


Zild wins Alternative Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

Zild wins Alternative Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

Morobeats win Hip-Hop Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

Morobeats win Hip-Hop Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

dwta and justin win Folk Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

dwta and justin win Folk Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

IV OF SPADES win Rock Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

IV OF SPADES win Rock Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

SB19 and Paolo Valenciano win Concert of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

SB19 and Paolo Valenciano win Concert of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

Cup of Joe win Album of the Year and Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

Cup of Joe win Album of the Year and Song of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.

SB19 take home six awards — including the coveted Artist of the Ye, photographed by Kim Santos.

SB19 take home six awards — including the coveted Artist of the Year, photographed by Kim Santos.


Photographed by Kim Santos. Creative Direction by Alannah Mitra and Gelo Quijencio, Production Design by Migs Alcid of Studio Tatin.