SB19’s Biggest Wins of 2026, So Far
SB19 got named the Philippines’ tourism ambassador in July. Played Lollapalooza a few days later. Picked up two Senate resolutions in the days that followed. Then flew to Japan for national television and a festival slot. That’s the shape of their year so far.
Named tourism ambassador
Days before their history-making Lollapalooza set, the Department of Tourism named SB19 the country’s newest tourism ambassador, joining BINI on the agency’s celebrity roster. Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay called SB19’s talent “undeniable,” saying the group has the reach to connect with fans across the U.S., Europe, and ASEAN.
Chicago, in fiery leather
Lollapalooza ran July 30 through August 2 at Grant Park in Chicago. SB19 took the Allianz Stage on July 31, the festival’s second day, for a nine-song set: “DAM,” “GENTO,” “LAWLESS,” “Emoi,” “MAPA,” “WAKAS,” “WISA,” “Dungka,” and “CRIMZONE,” plus a cover of Francis Magalona’s “Mga Kababayan.” (Billboard’s recap and a July 26 GMA Network article both place the set on July 30. Manila Bulletin and Inquirer.net date it to July 31.) The group shared the 2026 lineup with Jennie, Lorde, Charli XCX, and Tate McRae.
It was the first time a Filipino act performed at Lollapalooza.
The Senate takes notice
Senator Bam Aquino filed Senate Resolution No. 545 on July 31, commending SB19 as the first all-Filipino act to perform at the festival. Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan filed a second one, Senate Resolution No. 573, on August 4. Pangilinan said the performance “cements the global significance of Original Pilipino Music.”
Pangilinan’s resolution also cited the group’s work outside music: hospital gear donated during the COVID-19 pandemic, disaster relief funds, and support for recovery efforts after Tropical Storm Trami in 2024. It also noted that SB19 became the first Filipino and Southeast Asian act nominated for a Billboard Music Award back in 2021, in the Top Social Artist category.
National television in Japan
On August 13, SB19 guested on Nippon Television’s morning show “DayDay.” They performed “LAWLESS” and played a game segment with the hosts. A pre-taped reel covered SB19’s 2026 highlights, including Lollapalooza, and one host compared their fan turnout to Manny Pacquiao’s. Justin: “For our fans, thank you so much for always supporting us.”
Next stop: Summer Sonic
They’re at Summer Sonic this weekend: Massive Stage in Osaka on Friday, Pacific Stage in Tokyo on Saturday. A merch pop-up at Tower Records Shibuya has been running since August 10 and continues through August 18. An SB19-themed vending machine goes up at Yokohama Station on August 17 and 18. The trip ends with the “I WaS There Thanksgiving Fan Meet” in Yokohama on August 18.
Eight years since debut. Two Senate resolutions within days of each other. Whatever’s next, it’s probably already on the calendar.
