Senatorial candidate Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan on Monday said the international success of SB19 signals the emergence of a “Philippine Wave” in global pop culture, similar to South Korea’s Hallyu phenomenon.

Pangilinan highlighted how SB19’s growing popularity — from local venues to sold-out concerts abroad — shows the global appeal of P-pop when supported by strong vision and government investment.

“We’re already number one in bars, cruise ships, and even talent shows abroad. Now, SB19’s concerts are sold out not just at the Philippine Arena, but also in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Toronto,” he said.

“Pinoy pop will become a global sensation with the right vision and enough support from government for those promoting Filipino culture,” Pangilinan added.

SB19 recently appeared at the Bench Body of Work fashion show and joined actors Alden Richards, Kathryn Bernardo, and Chie Filomeno in a dance challenge to their latest single, “DAM.” The group is set to launch its EP Simula at Wakas on 25 April, completing a trilogy that began with Pagsibol and PAGTATAG. Their pre-release track “DAM” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales Chart and entered the Billboard Philippines Hot 100.

Pangilinan also praised SB19’s dedicated fanbase, A’TIN, which was recently recognized by Billboard International as the strongest fan army in the world.

Citing South Korea’s model, Pangilinan said that the success of K-pop was not accidental but the result of consistent government support for its entertainment industry — an approach the Philippines should consider to elevate its cultural exports.

“No talent show is unimpressed by Filipino singers. Filipinos were the first to perform in Miss Saigon. We are world-class in music and the arts. As one talent show host once said, ‘Is there a Filipino who cannot sing?’” Pangilinan noted.

“Imagine Filipino movies and music being as globally recognized as South Korea’s. With the right investment in our local talent, we can make that dream a reality. We can do it,” he added.

Pangilinan is married to Megastar Sharon Cuneta