In one night, the Awit Awards bridged generations and reminded audiences that the best days of Filipino music are still ahead.
At this year’s 38th Awit Awards, the spotlight belonged to a new generation of Filipino artists. From Ben&Ben’s sweeping melodies to Cup of Joe’s relatable lyrics and Lola Amour’s infectious energy, the major winners showed that OPM’s heartbeat now rests in the hands of today’s young voices.
The annual ceremony, powered by VIBE and held at the Meralco Theater on Nov. 16, honored the artists who shaped the year in music.
Ben&Ben bagged Album of the Year, Lola Amour took home Record of the Year, and Cup of Joe’s hit “Misteryoso” was named Song of the Year—three acts that define the modern OPM sound.
Solo R&B act Dionela also made waves with multiple wins, including Solo Artist of the Year, Best Collaboration with Jay-R, and Best R&B Recording, proving that Filipino R&B artists continue to find mainstream recognition.
Other big winners of the night included SB19, who earned Best Global Collaboration with Terry Zhong for “Moonlight,” Best Rap/Hip-Hop Recording with Gloc-9, and technical awards for Best Music Video and Best Cover Art. The group’s wins reaffirmed its place as leaders in the P-pop scene.
BINI also stood out, taking Best Dance/Electronic Recording for “Salamin, Salamin,” marking a milestone in its continued rise as one of the most successful girl groups in the country.
Meanwhile, Moira Dela Torre and Juan Karlos shared the Best Ballad Recording honor.
While much of the spotlight shone on younger artists, the night also recognized veteran performers whose music continues to shape and inspire the industry.
Regine Velasquez received the award for Best Original Soundtrack Recording, while December Avenue won Inspirational Recording.
The night also made space for honoring OPM’s trailblazers—those whose work paved the way for today’s new generation of artists.
Vic del Rosario, the influential producer behind countless OPM careers, was given the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Eraserheads frontman Ely Buendia received the Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino award for his contributions to Philippine music.
Other notable winners rounded out the night’s celebration of OPM. iLA was named Best Performance by a Solo Artist, while 12th Street earned Best Performance by a New Group. In the genre categories, Faspitch took Best Rock Recording, Ice Seguerra won Best Alternative Rock Recording, and Maki picked up Best Pop Recording for “Dilaw.”
The collaboration of Juan Karlos, Kyle Echarri, and Noel Cabangon also stood out, winning Regional Recording.
The awards also recognized artistry beyond the mainstream. Devonaire District and Alvin Cornista received honors for Best Jazz and Best Instrumental Recordings, while Over Heat and CamSur Made won Best World Music Recording. The Ateneo Boys Choir earned Best Recording by a Child or for Children, and Introvert Fiesta ft. AJi took Best Novelty Recording.
Technical achievements were likewise celebrated, with awards for Axel Fernandez (Sound Engineer), Khalil Refuerzo (Musical Arrangement), Luke Isnani and Felip Suson (Vocal Arrangement), and Ena Mori with Kenyema (Remix Recording).
This year’s event is presented by PCSO.
