Filipino global sensation SB19 is opening the doors to their world in the most honest way yet.
In Pagtatag! The Documentary, now streaming on Netflix, the P-Pop trailblazers—Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin—pull back the curtain on their seven-year journey, revealing a side of stardom rarely seen. More than just a behind-the-scenes look at their rise to fame, the documentary is a raw and unfiltered account of their struggles, triumphs, and unyielding belief in the power of dreams.
In an exclusive interview with Variety ahead of the documentary’s release, the group emphasized how deeply involved they were in the creative process, from conceptualization to execution. This wasn’t just a vanity project—they wanted to own their narrative, warts and all.
“We believe it’s important to be real and honest about the challenges we face day to day,” Stell shared. “Opening up about mental health, industry pressure, and personal troubles helps break the stigma and shows that even though we’re artists and performers, we’re still human.”
That human vulnerability is front and center in Pagtatag!—a title that not only speaks of their current era but also of the foundations they’ve built through perseverance and pain. The documentary dives into their beginnings, the sacrifices they’ve made, and the uphill battles they fought in an industry that had yet to fully embrace the potential of Filipino idol groups.
For Stell, one of the most rewarding aspects of their journey has been hearing how their music has touched lives. “Hearing how our music helped people with grief and dark times, or even gave them a sense of purpose and strength—it is overwhelming in the best way. We’re human too, so sometimes it feels like they saved us in a similar way.”
But SB19’s story doesn’t end with their own success. The group hopes the documentary can be a spark for the entire P-Pop movement, opening doors for more Filipino artists to share their truths with a global audience.
“Our goal goes beyond SB19,” Josh stated. “We want to help P-Pop gain global recognition and support our culture, arts, and economy. It is an ambitious dream but everything is connected.”
When asked what first-time viewers might take away from Pagtatag!, Josh responded with a sentiment that cuts to the heart of the documentary: “I really hope they see no dream is too big—you just have to keep working and trying. I hope they understand that our story is not just about music, it’s about believing in yourself no matter what.”
Since its premiere, Pagtatag! The Documentary has been generating buzz across social media, with fans praising its emotional depth and inspirational message. For longtime A’TIN and new fans alike, the film is more than a documentary—it’s a celebration of resilience, brotherhood, and the enduring Filipino spirit.
SB19’s story is far from over, but Pagtatag! stands as a powerful chapter—an invitation for others to dream just as boldly and believe just as fiercely.