Eight months into their training, Ethan David, Charles Law, Michael Keith, Derick Ong, and Hans Paronda are now introducing themselves as GAT, the latest P-pop group under Ivory Music and Viva Artists Agency (VAA).
Meeting with the press early this week, the five-member group talked about how they started, their musical influences, and what they hope to bring to the local music scene.
“GAT stands for ‘Gawang Atin ‘To,’” Ethan explained, sharing how the group was formed. “I’ve been singing since I was eight years old. Viva initially signed me as a solo artist, and this is actually my third group. I’m grateful to Boss Vic for always giving me a chance to perform because it’s my first love.”
He recalled the moment they became a group. “When he told me I’d be with Michael and Hans, he called us into his office and asked, ‘Do you guys want to be in a group?’ Of course! Who wouldn’t? Charles and Derick auditioned at Viva since they were actors, and that’s how GAT was complete.”
The group looks up to singer-actor James Reid for musical inspiration, in fact, their music is inspired by the catalogue of the actor, singer, and record producer.
“We want to bring back that fresh 2012 OPM sound, the kind that feels like serenading women,” Ethan said. “It’s smooth, something you’d listen to on a road trip.”
While P-pop continues to grow, GAT wants to create its own style, and someday travel the world to introduce their own brand of OPM.
“Our brothers in Alamat have a different image from ours,” Ethan said. “We just want to show people that we can sing, dance, and act.”
In early 2025, the group made an impression with their pre-debut performance video, giving James Reid’s “Huwag Ka Nang Humirit” a fresh twist. Michael said they want to celebrate being Filipino while doing things their own way. “With P-pop growing, we want to create our own path.”
Each member brings something different to the group. Ethan, known for his roles in Squad Goals (2018) and How To Love Mr. Heartless (2022), balances acting, singing, and dancing. Charles, who appeared in Penduko (2023) and The Rain in España (2023), brings his playful energy. Michael, an R&B artist, has shown his range in singles like “Ayayay” and “Drowning.” Derick, a former athlete, combines his stage presence with smooth moves. Hans, the Born to Be a Star 2020 runner-up, has a strong voice, heard in his singles “Ok Lang Ako” and “Puto.”
After building their name through covers, GAT is getting ready for live performances. They will perform at Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival at the CCP Open Grounds on March 15 and P-Pop It Up at Viva Café on March 22.
As one of Viva Music Group and VAA’s newest acts, alongside RAYA and MUTYA, GAT is ready to make their mark on the P-pop scene—and they definitely have what it takes to be the next P-pop sensation.