Cover Morobeats performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: ABLE Asia)
Morobeats performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: ABLE Asia)
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The much-anticipated FetePH2026 successfully transformed the Ayala Triangle Gardens into a massive open-air concert, marking the triumphant return of iconic local acts and celebrating the vibrant spirit of free live music
In a spectacular celebration of community, culture, and sound, thousands of music lovers packed the Ayala Triangle Gardens last June 20 for the FetePH2026’s main stage. Integrated into the bustling Makati Street Meet and Makati City Fiesta, the free open-air concert officially anchored the 32nd edition of Fête de la Musique, proving once again why it remains the country’s premier free celebration of Filipino music. Co-presented by Alliance Française de Manille, Funkybeat Entertainment and the Embassy of France to the Philippines, the festival is operating under this year’s core theme “For the People, By the People”.
Read more: Here’s your guide to FetePH2026, a month of free nationwide concerts uniting the Philippines
Above Meule performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: Isnal)
Meule performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: Isnal)
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The milestone Main Stage offered an unforgettable musical journey that seamlessly bridged generations, genres and borders. The undisputed highlight of the evening was the historic, highly anticipated return of the legendary jazz-rock and spoken-word collective Radioactive Sago Project. Marking their first live gig after an extended hiatus, the iconic group commanded the stage with the raw, chaotic poetry and biting energy that first cemented their status in the local music scene.
Above Alliance Française de Manille executive director Olivier Dintinger and French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel (Photo: ABLE Asia)
Alliance Française de Manille executive director Olivier Dintinger and French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel (Photo: ABLE Asia)
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The momentum was kept at a fever pitch throughout the night by a spectacular multi-genre bill of OPM icons and breakthrough powerhouses. Lola Amour sent the massive crowd into a frenzy, leading a park-wide singalong to their massive chart-topping hits, while Morobeats electrified the venue with an explosive hip-hop performance that put the raw power of the local rap scene on full display. The Jewelmer Jazz Band added world-class sophistication to the evening, captivating listeners with intricate jazz rhythms, as indie favourites Fitterkarma and pop-rock outfit Nameless Kids delivered stellar, high-octane sets that highlighted the vibrant future of local music.
Above Lola Amour performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: Isnal)
Lola Amour performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: Isnal)
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True to the festival’s spirit of international cultural exchange, the evening was elevated by global sounds. French krautrock trio Meule brought a wall of analogue trance and psychedelia as part of their Asian tour, while French-Vietnamese harpist Héloïse La Harpe enchanted the crowd with her mesmerising contemporary strings. Across the street, the weekend was rounded out by the Taste of France French Market along Paseo de Roxas, which drew massive crowds of foodies and cultural enthusiasts seeking authentic French cuisine and artisanal goods.
Above Fitterkarma performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: Isnal)
Fitterkarma performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: Isnal)
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While the Main Stage has wrapped up, the FetePH2026 experience is far from over. For those looking to keep the celebration going, the festival’s massive nationwide wave is cresting this coming weekend. On June 26, the music officially spills directly into the streets, bars and creative hubs of Makati for the fan-favourite Makati pocket stages. Dozens of hyper-localised, genre-specific stages will activate simultaneously—covering everything from punk, indie and emo to house, jazz, and dream pop—allowing fans to hop from venue to venue all night long.
Read more: Jacques Christophe Branellec upholds Jewelmer’s mission to protect the South Sea Pearl
Above Heloise performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: ABLE Asia)
Heloise performing on the main stage of FetePH2026 (Photo: ABLE Asia)
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Simultaneously, the party expands across the entire archipelago until June 28. A massive network of 23 NCR Stages and 66 Destination Stages across 33 provinces—including lively hubs in Cebu, Iloilo, Palawan, Zambales, and Bohol—is activating to bring the free experience directly to regional communities. The month-long music marathon will reach its ultimate conclusion on June 29 with an intimate performance by acclaimed jazz duo Project Yazz at the Long Bar in Raffles Makati. Admission to all remaining pocket stages and regional events remains completely free and open to all.
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
