P-pop goes global when SB19 and BINI win the prestigious “Voice of Asia Award” at Billboard Korea's “Billboard K-Power 100” event in Seoul.
In a historic moment for Philippine music, P-Pop groups SB19 and BINI received the Voices of Asia Award in recognition of their contributions to the global music scene and their steady promotion of P-Pop outside the Philippines.
Hailed for their chart-topping hits and international influence, SB19 and BINI, dubbed “the people's girl group” for their pioneering success, continue to solidify their roles as key figures in the evolution of global music. Beyond their musical achievements, members of both groups have honed their personal style on and off stage with their distinct tastes in fashion.
The approach to menswear seen in SB19's music videos and performance outfits has since sparked positive change in the everyday fashion of Filipino men. Each member of SB19 brings their own unique style to the table. “The members of SB19 are fully involved in the final look,” stylists Rain Dagala and M. Milan said in a joint statement. “Each look for each appearance is a collaborative effort (…) The group's cohesion comes afterwards, and that's a job left to us stylists.” Member FELIP shared his wardrobe essentials, giving fans a glimpse into his personal style preferences. “A lot of people have questioned the way I dress,” the musician told Vogue in May. “People ask me why I wear the same clothes over and over again, and I've never understood that. Clothes are meant to be worn.”
On the red carpet, each member of the boy band wore a black and blue outfit with a different neckline designed by designer Elan Montoya. The designer used recycled abaca fabric and thread to subtly infuse the outfits with Filipino flair. “The designs aim to highlight Filipino artistry and craftsmanship, which aligns with our core objective of promoting PPOP Rise and representing the Philippine flag on the international stage,” the designer said. “The result is a stunning showcase of Filipino heritage in a fresh and understated way.”
BINI's growing influence on fashion and makeup in the local scene over the past year was evident in the crowd's reactions, as the girls wore a variety of outfits, from all-denim ensembles in pop hues inspired by the “Salamin Salamin” music video, to crocheted island girl looks with a “Pantropico” twist, to the burgundy hair and “Bayonetta” glasses trends that BINI members Mika Lim and Malloy Riccarde have adopted as their signatures, respectively. For the event, the girl group wore sporty yet feminine color-blocked ensembles that were perfect for their performance, coordinating looks that expressed a little bit of their individual personalities.
Designer Elan Montoya prepares the outfits that SB19 members will wear at the Billboard K Power 100 event. Courtesy of Elan Montoya
Early sketches of Ehrran Montoya's design for SB19's performance at the Billboard K Power 100 event. Courtesy of Ehrran Montoya
As SB19 and BINI prepare to perform in Seoul, their achievement underscores the growing importance of Philippine music on the global stage and is in line with Billboard Philippines' mission to expand the international influence of Filipino artists.
Ehrran Montoya's fabric design for Philippine P-pop group SB19 incorporates “contemporary Filipino elements.” Courtesy of Ehrran Montoya
Sketch of SB19 members' outfits at the Billboard K Power 100 event. Courtesy of Ehrran Montoya
“This recognition is a testament to P-Pop's expanding influence beyond Asia. Both SB19 and BINI have captivated audiences around the world, and their selection marks P-Pop's significant expansion into key global markets,” said Ann Berniska, publisher of Billboard Philippines. “By continuing to expand the global reach and influence of Philippine music, we aim to foster a culture where Filipino talent is celebrated and incorporated into the global mainstream music conversation.”
SB19 and BINI delivered unforgettable performances that captured the attention of audiences around the world. SB19's powerful rendition of “GENTO” showcased their dynamic energy, while BINI's vibrant medley of hits “Cherry On Top” and “Pantropiko” solidified her status as one of the Philippines' leading girl groups. With their spectacular spotlight at the prestigious event, SB19 and BINI proved that Filipino artists have the ability to stand shoulder to shoulder with the world's top artists, setting the stage for even more global recognition in the future.
