Apl.de.Ap. of Black Eyed Peas has joined the red carpet of the first-ever Filipino Music Awards, held on October 21 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

In an interview with Billboard Philippines, the Filipino-American musician opened up about how his vision for the local music scene comes to life through nights like this.

“I’m here to see the first, initial step of promoting OPM around the world […] This is the moment. This is the time. It’s time for OPM to be recognized around the world. Even in my solo record, I wanted to be OPM coming from the Philippines. Usually, Black Eyed Peas — international. But I want my album to be OPM.”

The first-ever Filipino Music Awards brings together the OPM industry’s biggest artists and influential figures, honoring their contributions to the wider industry at large, presenting a total 20 honors across five major categories and is organized by Modern Media Group Inc. — home to renowned global titles such as Billboard Philippines, Rolling Stone Philippines, Nylon Manila, and Robb Report Philippines — and produced by AGC Power Holdings Corp

Ralph Regis

Ralph Regis

Lifestyle and Culture Writer

Ralph Regis is a Lifestyle and Culture Writer at Billboard Philippines, where he bridges the worlds of film, television, fashion, art, food, and cultural trends with both the local and international music scene.

He has written extensively about artist collaborations, brand partnerships, and pop culture moments that connect back to music. He also brings stories to life through in-depth interviews with musicians and personalities, drawing on their diverse perspectives, opinions, and reflections on the human condition.

In addition, Ralph also writes about music releases across a wide range of genres, including pop, hip-hop, P-pop, and rock, highlighting both rising and established artists. With a passion for storytelling that goes beyond trends, he explores how music is part of our daily lives in one form or another, connecting culture, experiences, and everything in between.

See more stories by Ralph Regis