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Taking space on the international stage, Filipino acts Cup of Joe, Dionela, and Earl Agustin are under consideration for a nomination at the 2026 Music Awards Japan.
Led by the Japan Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotions Association (CEIPA), with support from the Japanese government, the upcoming music awards is the country’s premier international music awards platform. Currently on its second year, it aims to bring together songs from different regions, founded on the concept of “connecting with the world and illuminating the future of music.”
Representing the Philippines, OPM artists Cup of Joe, Dionela, and Earl Agustin are all vying for a nomination under the Best Song Asia category, against the likes of BLACKPINK, ILLIT, LE SSERAFIM, ENHYPEN, TWICE, and more. The category also includes “Golden” from the trending film Kpop Demon Hunters by HUNTR/X, Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, as well as “the cutest pair” by Singaporean singer-songwriter Regina Song.
Dionela, Earl Agustin: Courtesy of Geezerbuild.
Marking a strong showing for the Philippines, three standout OPM tracks are in contention to be nominated, coincidentally the top placers of Billboard Philippines Year-End Chart of 2025 — Cup of Joe’s “Multo” which placed at the No. 1 spot, followed by Dionela’s “Marilag” at No. 2, and Earl Agustin’s “Tibok” at No. 3.
The final Best Song Asia nominees will be announced on April 30. Fans will then get the chance to vote for their favorite songs through Best of Listener’s Choice in collaboration with Spotify, from April 30 to May 20, 2026.
The 2026 Music Awards Japan is set to happen on June 13, where they will officially name the Best Song Asia winner, alongside its other major categories: Song of the Year, Artist of the Year, New Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Best Global Hit from Japan.