In an industry often divided by genre and competition, it’s quite rare to see so many artists and creatives all in one place, let alone take the same stage. But at Billboard Philippines, we’ve always believed in music’s power of bringing people together — and for our first anniversary, we wanted to showcase exactly that.

Last week (October 15), we brought together 33 of the biggest artists in the country for one historic celebration of Filipino music for Billboard Philippines: Mainstage. From the Philippines’ most influential and legendary acts to hip-hop’s most viral hitmakers to P-pop’s pioneering groups to the indie scene’s most beloved bands, the grand show united the entire music industry — be it artists or fans — for one great night of music.

And while we all know of the greatness that unfolded on stage — with incredible performances that all showcased the vibrant colors of Filipino music, let’s peel back the curtains on the magic that happened behind the scenes of Billboard Philippines: Mainstage.

Photographed by Easel Manes

Over October, photographed by Easel Manes

Josh Cullen, photographed by Easel Manes

Felip, photographed by Easel Manes

KAIA, photographed by Easel Manes

Sarah Geronimo, photographed by Mayks Go

Sarah Geronimo, photographed by Easel Manes

PLAYERTWO, photographed by Mayks Go

SB19, photographed by Mayks Go

Whether it was the artists enthusiastically greeting each other backstage for the first time or the different teams working together finally seeing their vision come to life, the excitement was palpable. Even at 5 a.m. when everyone was filing in for soundcheck and the final set of tech runs, the energy never faltered. Everyone was all smiles, proud and honored to have been part of history.

From the preparations in the early hours of the day to the last leg of the live show, Billboard Philippines: Mainstage was a testament that there’s nothing like music to bring people together. So, as we’re still reeling from the ultimate celebration of Filipino music, here’s an exclusive inside look into the making of Billboard Philippines: Mainstage – the Year One Anniversary.

Photographed by Mayks Go

Photographed by Mayks Go

Josh Cullen, photographed by Mayks Go

Moira, photographed by Easel Manes

Yeng Constantino, photographed by Easel Manes

Felip, photographed by Easel Manes

Josh Buizon of Over October, photographed by Mayks Go

Over October, photographed by Mayks Go

YGIG, photographed by Mayks Go

Hev Abi, photographed by Mayks Go

Tus Brothers, photographed by Mayks Go

AJAA, photographed by Mayks Go

ALAMAT, photographed by Mayks Go

Ben&Ben, photographed by Mayks Go

JROA, photographed by Mayks Go

Dilaw, photographed by Mayks Go

ALAMAT, photographed by Mayks Go

Made possible by: 
BDO
IQOS
ZYN
Tecno
Ikea
LG XBOOM 
KFC 
SONY ULT Power Sound 
Globe
ACER
Kotex
YOU Beauty
McDonald’s
Jinro
Locally 
Chingu Cafe
Gluta Lipo
Beauty Vault 

Special thanks to: 
Nix Institute of Beauty 
William Grant & Sons
Lime Resort Manila
Hotel101 
The Archive Booth