Ken Suson, AKA Felip (SB19)

P-pop’s growing international reach owes much to artists who have proved that Filipino acts can compete on their own terms. Since forming in 2016, SB19, John Paulo Nase—known professionally as Pablo—(leader, vocalist and primary creative director), Stellvester Ajero (main vocalist and performance director), Ken Suson—also known as Felip—(main dancer and vocalist), Josh Cullen Santos (lead rapper and choreographer) and Justin De Dios (vocalist and visual director), has built a devoted following through its live performances, choreography and original music. Their success helped bring homegrown idol groups into the mainstream and opened new possibilities for Filipino pop beyond local audiences.

The group’s influence extends beyond the stage. After leaving their original agency, the five members established 1Z Entertainment, giving them greater control over their music and business decisions. Their nomination for Top Social Artist at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards, the first for a Southeast Asian act, also marked an important milestone for the region’s music industry.

In 2026, SB19 continued to expand its international presence with performances at Lollapalooza in Chicago and Japan’s Summer Sonic Festival. Closer to home, they recorded “Together in Motion”, the official theme song for the Philippines’ Asean 2026 chairship, taking on a role that connects popular music with cultural diplomacy. Their trajectory reflects not only the growing audience for P-pop, but the ambition of Filipino artists to build careers with global reach while retaining creative control.