PHILIPPINES — The Department of Tourism honored P-pop powerhouses BINI and SB19 for their contributions to Philippine music and their growing influence as the country's newest Tourism Ambassadors. The recognition took place during the 2026 Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino Awards on October 14, 2026.
A Strategic Partnership for Tourism
Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay praised the two groups for proudly representing the Philippines on the global stage while staying connected to their communities. She explained that naming them ambassadors was not about chasing headlines but about recognizing the pride they bring to the country and harnessing their talent to inspire travelers.
"When we named SB19 and BINI as the Philippines' newest Tourism Ambassadors in July, we were not chasing headlines. We had two clear reasons. First, to recognize the pride and honor they bring to our country every time they perform on the international stage. Second, to harness the power of homegrown talent to inspire more foreign visitors and Filipinos from the diaspora to return to our shores," Angara-Mathay said in a message delivered by Assistant Secretary Armand Lorenze V. Sapitan.
Global Impact Award for P-Pop Icons
BINI and SB19 were among the honorees of the Global Impact Award, recognizing their international achievements and contributions to bringing Filipino pop music to a wider audience. The award was presented by the Philippine Association of the Record Industry in partnership with Go Live Asia.
BINI, known as the Nation's Girl Group, was recognized for its international reach and contribution to bringing Filipino music to wider audiences. SB19, the Kings of P-pop, received the same distinction for its contributions to the international visibility of Filipino music. The OPM band Cup of Joe was likewise honored with the Global Impact Award.
Digital Tourism Initiatives
The DOT recently launched dedicated microsites for BINI and SB19, featuring the members' dream destinations paired with special discounted travel packages offered exclusively through DOT-accredited partners. The initiative forms part of the second phase of the Discover More To Love domestic tourism campaign launched in June 2026.
These digital platforms allow fans to explore the favorite destinations of their idols while accessing exclusive travel deals. The campaign aims to convert fan enthusiasm into actual travel spending, benefiting local communities across the country.
A Night for OPM Legends and New Icons
The Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino 2026, presented under the Awit Awards, was held at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City. The ceremony celebrated the artistic excellence, industry contributions, and international impact of individuals and groups who have helped shape the Philippine music industry.
Among the honorees were Ogie Alcasid, who received the Recording Artist Award, and Gary Valenciano, who was given the Concert Artist Award. Jose Mari Chan received the Composer Award for his timeless songs and lasting contribution to Filipino music. Recording engineer Angelo "Angee" Rozul was honored with the Recording Engineer Award, while Antonio M. Ocampo received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
A Shared Mission for Filipino Culture
The partnership between the DOT and the two P-pop groups represents a convergence of music and tourism. By leveraging the global reach of BINI and SB19, the government hopes to attract more visitors and encourage overseas Filipinos to rediscover their homeland.
The recognition at the Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino Awards further solidifies the groups' status as cultural ambassadors. Their influence extends beyond entertainment, serving as a bridge that connects Filipinos worldwide and showcases the best of what the Philippines has to offer.
