# data[].attributes.body
Hello! My name is Rovil Jesus Rontale, and I’m a student who enjoys exploring various aspects of Philippine culture, especially pop culture. I grew up in Davao City, surrounded by a vibrant mix of traditional and modern influences. My interests range from exploring trending Filipino streetwear to keeping up with the latest Pinoy hip-hop hits. Pop culture has always been a big part of my life, and it influences how I connect with friends and stay in touch with trends in Filipino society.

Here are a few of my favorite elements of Philippine pop culture:

Indie Filipino Films – Local movies like Kita Kita and That Thing Called Tadhana are the ones that I beloved for their unique storytelling and showcase the diversity of Filipino life and experiences.

Pinoy Hip-Hop and Rap – Artists like Shanti Dope, Al James and Soulthrll are one of my Filipino Idols, making waves in the hip-hop scene, capturing the voices of young Filipinos and addressing social issues through powerful lyrics.

Indigenous-Inspired Fashion – Brands like Filip+Inna and designers like Dita Sandico incorporate local textiles, like piña and abaca, into modern fashion, blending traditional and contemporary styles.

Filipino Street Food – My favorites like isaw and kwek-kwek are classic street foods that reflect the Filipino love for bold flavors and community gatherings.

Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) – One of my favorite is Basketball, it is a huge part of Filipino culture, with teams like Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and San Miguel Beermen being crowd favorites, bringing fans together from all over the country.

# data[].attributes.body
For this Padlet, I chose Pinoy Hip-Hop as the pop culture element to feature. Recently, Filipino rap and hip-hop have surged in popularity, with artists like Shanti Dope, Al James, and Soulthrll becoming household names. I chose Pinoy Hip-Hop because it’s more than just music; it’s a way for young Filipinos to express themselves and tackle social issues, from poverty to mental health, in a relatable way. What makes it stand out is how artists like Soulthrll use rap to share raw, unfiltered messages and personal experiences that resonate with listeners.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Al James - Atin-Atin Lang feat. Flow G (Official Music Video)

# data[].attributes.body
Soulthrll is an artist that has been able to create a distinctive sound by fusing classic Pinoy Hip Hop with contemporary Trap components because to a lifelong passion for music.

# data[].attributes.body
Some of my favorite street foods are kwek-kwek, which are battered quail eggs, and isaw, grilled chicken or pork intestines, both of which are delicious and beloved snacks in the Philippines.

# data[].attributes.body
I am a huge fan of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), where the exciting games and passionate rivalries bring the entire community together and showcase the immense talent of Filipino athletes.

# data[].attributes.headline
Applying Uses and Gratifications Theory to Pinoy Hip-Hop

# data[].attributes.subject
Applying Uses and Gratifications Theory to Pinoy Hip-Hop

# data[].attributes.body
Pinoy Hip-Hop, including artists like Al James, Flow G, Shanti Dope and Soulthrll has impacted various aspects of Filipino society, particularly in media and identity formation. Through social media, artists can reach audiences nationwide, helping spread awareness of hip-hop as a storytelling platform for the Filipino experience. This cultural element has shifted Filipino media, bringing an edgier and more socially conscious voice into the mainstream. Artists like Soulthrll not only produce catchy music but also address issues like discrimination, poverty, and resilience, which inspire listeners and reflect current societal challenges.

Applying Uses and Gratifications Theory to Pinoy Hip-Hop, it’s clear that young Filipinos turn to this music for both entertainment and self-expression. For some, it’s a source of identity and pride, especially since the genre addresses relevant social issues that are often overlooked in other forms of media. This pop culture element also sparks trends in fashion, language, and attitudes. Hip-hop fans often adopt specific styles or slang from my favorite artists like Soulthrll, which then spreads across social media, influencing youth culture.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
THE EVOLUTION OF FILIPINO HIPHOP (How it all started)

# data[].attributes.body
Al James influences youth culture through his relatable lyrics that address common experiences and challenges faced by young Filipinos, fostering a strong emotional connection with his audience. His active presence on social media, unique fashion sense, and representation of Filipino identity empower fans to express themselves and embrace their heritage, making him a significant role model in the contemporary music scene.