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Filipino music shines on the world stage as Cup of Joe’s “Multo” officially secures a nomination for Best Song Asia at the MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN (MAJ) 2026.
Following an intense selection process featuring three OPM acts (Cup of Joe, Dionela, and Earl Agustin), this nomination spotlights the Philippines’ growing pull on the global stage. With tracks like “Marilag” and “Tibok” in contention, their presence in the shortlist signals more than tough competition: it’s proof that Filipino music isn’t just showing up in a major international category but starting to shape it.
Now in its second year, MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN is Japan’s premier international music awards platform, established in 2025. The initiative is led by the Japan Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association (CEIPA), a collaboration among Japan’s five major music industry bodies aimed at fostering global exchange and elevating Asian music worldwide.
The awards’ credibility is reinforced by a voting body composed of respected music industry professionals, ensuring that recognition reflects artistic excellence, cultural impact, and industry authority.
Looking beyond Japan, MAJ’s vision is firmly international. Taro Kumabe, Executive Director for Global Relations of MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN / CEIPA, emphasizes this direction: “MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN was created not only to celebrate excellence within Japan, but to spotlight the incredible diversity of music across Asia. Our vision is to build a platform where artists from different markets can stand side by side and be recognized globally.”
Reflecting on the impact of the awards, PLAVE—a South Korean virtual boy group and previous nominee for Best Song Asia—shared: “When we heard we were nominated for ‘Best Song Asia’ last year, we felt so happy, sensing that our message had reached so many people beyond language barriers. This nomination has become a major step in pioneering a new path as virtual artists. We hope this award becomes a symbol of limitless challenge for the next generation—showing that regardless of background or style, anyone can become the main character on this stage through music and passion. We believe that the courage to embrace change is what makes music history.”
That spirit of cross-cultural recognition is exactly what MAJ was built for. True to that commitment, MAJ serves as a premier platform—bringing together standout tracks from across the region and positioning them on a shared international stage through the Best Song Asia award.
Also drawing attention is the International Special Award, presented in partnership with leading local music awards across the region. The category honors the exceptional talent and cultural influence of artists across Asia, recognizing musical excellence in South Korea, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Through this, MAJ reaffirms its commitment to fostering a more integrated and globally connected Asian music ecosystem.
Winners will be announced at the official MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026 ceremony on June 13.
For more information, including eligibility and interim results, visit https://www.musicawardsjapan.com/en/
