KAIA, TJ Monterde put Filipino music in global spotlight

Filipino artists KAIA and TJ Monterde brought P-pop and OPM to the international stage after representing the Philippines at the 2026 ASEAN-Korea ROUND Music Festival in Incheon, South Korea.

Held on 7 and 8 November at Namdong Gymnasium, the festival gathered performers from South Korea and ASEAN member countries for a showcase of music and cultural exchange. Organized by Korean public broadcaster KBS, the event is set to air globally in December.

One of the festival’s standout moments saw five-member P-pop group KAIA share the stage with K-pop girl group EVERGLOW for a special performance of the latter’s hit song, “DUN DUN.”

The collaboration introduced KAIA — composed of Angela, Charice, Sophia, Alexa and Charlotte — to Korean audiences while highlighting the growing presence of P-pop beyond the Philippines.

The appearance also marks another international milestone for the group following its performances at regional music events, including Music Matters Live in Singapore.

Meanwhile, singer-songwriter TJ Monterde showcased Original Pilipino Music through a special collaboration with South Korean artist 10CM, whose emotionally driven songs have earned a strong following across Asia.

The performance paired two singer-songwriters known for heartfelt storytelling, underscoring how music can bridge cultures despite differences in language.

Together, KAIA and Monterde represented two distinct sides of the Philippine music scene — high-energy pop performances and contemporary OPM balladry — offering international audiences a glimpse of the country’s evolving sound.

Their participation also continued the Philippines’ involvement in the ROUND Festival following the event’s successful Manila edition earlier this year.

With performances set to reach viewers through KBS’ global broadcast in December, the festival is expected to introduce Filipino artists to an even wider international audience.