Quadlips is back with a new single, and its lone Filipina member is making sure local fans feel right at home.
Cole, who represents Manila in the four-member international girl group, said performing in the Philippines feels special as she brings her roots into the spotlight.
The group dropped its seventh single, “IDGA (I Don’t Give A),” on Aug. 15, marking the group’s first major release in the country.
Cole, who grew up idolizing Sarah Geronimo and Yeng Constantino, said those influences shaped her early love for music.
“Miss Sarah Geronimo, of course. She’s my childhood idol. Since I was a baby, maybe I was already singing her songs,” she shared, even singing a few lines from Geronimo’s hit “Maybe This Time.”
The singer also pointed out how her journey with Quadlips has been a test of resilience. She recalled the challenges of living in Thailand during training and promotions.
“To be honest, it was really difficult for me. Because you know, us Filipinos are very family-oriented. So it was a big adjustment for me in Thailand. We stayed there for almost two years, with only the support from the management and the girls,” she said.
Despite the struggle, Cole said the bond among the members kept her going.
“I’m very grateful that they’re very kind and very understanding. And very strict when it comes to Quadlips. And when it comes to me, they’re very caring.”
Quadlips was formed in 2023 through the AKB48 Group Global Project and brings together members from across Asia: Feni from Jakarta’s JKT48, Hina from Nagoya’s SKE48, Fame from Bangkok’s BNK48, and Cole from Manila’s MNL48.
The group debuted in 2024 with “Catch Me Kiss Me” and has since released a string of singles, each tied to an extreme sport.
Their latest track, “IDGA,” shifts the spotlight to empowerment, telling the story of moving on from a toxic relationship with humor and attitude.
Cole said the concept fits the group’s edgy identity.
“Aside from our diversity, what makes Quadlips stand out is our concept. Every single release is tied to an extreme sport… We haven’t seen a group as extreme as ours, actually. Because we try it. For example, I try skateboarding. And Hina also tried basketball. Snowboarding too. We try it, we enjoy it,” she said.
As Quadlips steps further into the Philippine market, Cole hopes her presence helps fans connect more closely with the group.
“With music, we can show and interact with the fans more. They can relate. They can get to know us more,” she said.
“IDGA” is now streaming on all major platforms. Its music video, filmed in the bustling streets of Tokyo’s Shibuya, is also available on YouTube.
