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Hello! I’m Dianna Claire Marie Amihan, and as a computer science student, I’ve found that my love for technology and creativity connects deeply with my passion for Philippine pop culture. Growing up, I saw firsthand how our culture, filled with vibrant stories, resilient characters, and expressive art forms, shapes us in ways that go beyond trends or entertainment. It’s a powerful way of sharing who we are as a people, reflecting our values, hopes, and everyday experiences. For me, this connection to pop culture is personal—music, in particular, has always been close to my heart. I grew up with Original Pilipino Music (OPM), and over time, my love for it has only grown, especially with the recent rise of Philippine Pop (P-Pop). One group that stands out is SB19, a band that has not only taken the country by storm but has also gained recognition internationally. SB19 represents more than just music; they are role models for the values that I believe in: hard work, humility, and a deep love for one’s country. Watching them rise from humble beginnings to international acclaim is inspiring. They show the world that Filipino talent can stand out globally, and their journey gives me pride and hope in what Filipinos can achieve. Beyond music, my interests in Philippine pop culture extend to language, film, food, online trends, and local influencers. I have a deep appreciation for how our language reflects our rich heritage and allows us to connect with each other. Filipino films hold a special place in my heart, as they capture unique aspects of our culture, highlighting stories that resonate deeply with our struggles and aspirations. Food is another passion—I love how Filipino cuisine represents our diverse backgrounds and regions, and how food bloggers like Erwan Heussaff and Mark Wiens bring these flavors to life online. They have turned their love for Filipino cuisine into a platform for both education and entertainment. Through their videos, they dive into the diverse flavors, local ingredients, and vibrant street foods that make Philippine cuisine so special. These vloggers do more than just showcase mouthwatering dishes as they help preserve Filipino traditions while introducing new perspectives on how food connects us to our culture and roots. By capturing local food stories and celebrating regional delicacies, they inspire a deeper appreciation for our culinary heritage, both among Filipinos and viewers worldwide. Vlogging and social media platforms have also transformed pop culture by giving us the power to share our stories globally, and I follow these trends closely on TikTok. I see TikTok as more than just a platform; it’s a space where I can connect with what’s relevant to Filipinos today, from trending discussions to social issues. I make it a point to think critically about what I see online, especially when it comes to trends that influence how we see ourselves and the world. My goal is to continue learning and exploring Philippine pop culture because I believe it helps us stay connected to our roots while embracing the changes that come with time. I think pop culture has the power to unite people, to make us feel seen, and to remind us of what we can achieve. Understanding our culture isn’t just about staying updated with trends—it’s about finding value in our unique voice and realizing that this voice deserves to be heard on a global stage.

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For my Padlet, I chose to explore the significance of Filipino music, a contemporary cultural phenomenon that resonates deeply with every Filipino, whether at home or abroad. Music has long been a binding force in our culture, evolving from traditional folk songs to today’s modern OPM (Original Pilipino Music) and P-Pop (Philippine Pop). This evolution reflects our adaptability, creativity, and pride in who we are. Groups like SB19 and Ben&Ben, as well as solo artists like KZ Tandingan and Moira Dela Torre, carry the essence of the Filipino spirit in their music, capturing themes of resilience, love, and community that resonate strongly with our shared experiences. In times of joy and celebration, we find ourselves singing along to catchy, upbeat anthems that radiate pride in our unique sound. During challenging times, like natural calamities or personal hardships, the deeply emotional and soulful quality of Filipino music has a special way of uplifting spirits and reminding us of our resilience. Through music, we stay connected as a people, even when oceans apart, as it speaks to shared experiences, values, and hopes. SB19, for example, has achieved global recognition, breaking barriers with their Billboard Music Awards nomination and collaborations that highlight our unique sound. Their journey from humble beginnings to the international stage mirrors the dreams of countless Filipinos, inspiring national pride and showing that our voices are worthy of the global spotlight. What makes Filipino music particularly powerful is its role as a unifying force, especially in difficult times. When natural disasters strike or social challenges arise, artists respond with music that heals, inspires, and reminds us of our resilience. Ben&Ben’s heartfelt songs often touch on social issues and personal struggles, creating a sense of solidarity and understanding across their audience. During the pandemic, their music was a comforting presence for many, embodying empathy and hope. This ability to speak directly to the people’s emotions is what sets Filipino music apart—our artists don’t just perform; they reflect our collective spirit, sharing stories that resonate across generations and regions. This cultural trend isn’t just a celebration of our musical talent but also a demonstration of our identity and values on a global platform. As P-Pop groups like BINI and BGYO gain popularity, they’re bringing the Filipino sound and culture into mainstream media. These artists not only entertain but educate global audiences about who we are. The themes in their music often celebrate Filipino identity, drawing from local narratives and infusing them with modern beats that captivate international listeners. For example, SB19’s song “Go Up” is a motivational anthem that encourages resilience and hard work, values that are deeply rooted in the Filipino psyche. This blend of cultural pride and musical innovation showcases how we’re using pop culture to redefine how the world sees Filipinos.

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14 Pinoy Pop Acts You Should Know: G22, Maki, KAIA, ALAMAT, & More | GRAMMY.com

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Love K-pop or J-pop? The Philippines has an abundance of talent to offer in the world of P-pop. From BGYO to Maymay Entrata, get to know some of the groups and solo artists who are helping Pinoy pop blossom.

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Part 3 - Contemporary Philippine Pop Culture Analysis

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Part 3 - Contemporary Philippine Pop Culture Analysis

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My analysis of contemporary Filipino music utilizes the Uses and Gratifications Theory, which posits that individuals actively seek out media to satisfy specific emotional, social, and cognitive needs. In the context of Filipino music, particularly modern OPM and P-Pop, this genre serves as a vital outlet for both personal expression and communal identity. Artists like SB19, Moira Dela Torre, and Ben&Ben resonate deeply with listeners through their evocative lyrics and relatable themes. Their music often explores the complexities of life, such as love, loss, resilience, and hope, mirroring the everyday experiences of many Filipinos. For instance, Moira Dela Torre’s heartfelt ballads often articulate feelings of heartache and healing, offering listeners a form of emotional support that can be incredibly comforting. During trying times—be it natural disasters or the recent global pandemic—these songs become a refuge, helping people navigate their emotions by affirming their struggles and dreams. The ability of music to articulate shared experiences fulfills a critical psychological need, reinforcing a sense of belonging and solidarity among listeners.

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How Filipino Pop bands and P-Pop groups are shaping Filipino music culture

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‘Gupit’ explores the challenges of moving on and the bravery needed to overcome them

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Part 3 - Contemporary Philippine Pop Culture Analysis

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Part 3 - Contemporary Philippine Pop Culture Analysis

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Moreover, contemporary Filipino music plays a pivotal role in fostering social integration and cultural pride, particularly through the rise of P-Pop groups like SB19, BINI, and BGYO. Their increasing popularity on platforms like YouTube and TikTok has not only captured the attention of local audiences but has also extended to international fans, creating a global community that celebrates Filipino artistry. This phenomenon highlights a collective desire for representation, demonstrating that Filipino talent can shine brightly on a global stage. The success of these artists serves as a source of pride, inspiring young Filipinos to embrace their identity and heritage. For example, SB19’s rise to fame has been accompanied by a movement of “A’TIN,” their dedicated fanbase that promotes unity and mutual support among its members. This social cohesion reinforces cultural bonds, empowering individuals to celebrate their roots and share their unique stories. Through their music, these artists cultivate a sense of identity and belonging, encouraging Filipinos to see themselves reflected in the narratives portrayed in their songs. In this light, contemporary Filipino music transcends mere entertainment; it acts as a powerful catalyst for cultural expression and social change, meeting emotional and social needs while simultaneously fostering a global appreciation for Filipino culture.