Filipino creators on Spotify adapt as podcasting turns more visual and interactive

Filipino creators are meeting the demand for more visual, in-the-moment podcasts with nearly 4x more publishing video episodes on Spotify this year.

PHILIPPINES, JULY 30, 2025. The podcast landscape in the Philippines is evolving, with video transforming what was once a primarily audio-only medium. With video formats, podcasts are becoming richer and more immersive experiences, and Filipino creators are rapidly adapting to this shift. On Spotify, the number of Filipino creators publishing video podcasts has grown nearly 4x in the past year, fueled by listeners craving content that feels more real and expressive. In fact, the Philippines is in the top 3 APAC video podcast markets for Spotify.

“More than just a feature, we’re seeing Filipino creators embrace video as a natural extension of the way they share stories,” says Carl Zuzarte, Head of Studios at Spotify Southeast Asia. “At Spotify, we’re investing in giving them the tools to innovate and connect in more meaningful ways, so their content doesn’t just grow in reach, but resonates even more deeply with their communities.”

Bringing stories to life with video

More Filipino creators are embracing video to bring their shows to life, with over half of the Philippines’ top 20 podcasts now offering video content on Spotify. Whether it’s capturing live reactions, from the subtle eyeroll during banter or the chemistry between hosts and guests, video brings new depth to the experience that pulls audiences deeper into the moment, making them feel like they’re sitting in the room rather than just listening in. This is reflected in growing listener preference for video formats, with video podcast monthly listeners in the Philippines increasing by 35%.

For Sam YG and DJ Chacha, video brought new energy to their long-running podcast Lecheng Pag-ibig ‘To. Known for their raw, unfiltered takes on love, heartbreak, and everything in between, the duo found that showing their reactions on camera made each story hit harder. “Video makes everything feel more alive and helps us be even more animated in our storytelling. Now, people don’t have to imagine our stories. They can actually see how shocked or excited we are when we tell our stories — and it turned our podcast into a whole show in itself,” said Sam.

For comedy duo Ashley Rivera and Hershey Neri, video was part of the plan from day one. Their show Chicks 2 Go thrives on visuals: expressive storytelling, themed episodes, and even unexpected dog cameos. “As visual creators, video has always been a creative outlet for us to explore new storytelling.  That’s why when we created Chicks 2 Go, we knew that video would make our podcast more fun to watch and feel more personal,” said Ashley. “Since then, video has become more than just a format for us. It helps us connect better, and makes our listeners feel like they’re right there with us.”

Talk is no longer one-way

The visual element doesn’t just enhance storytelling – it also allows listeners to choose how, when and in what format they engage. On Spotify, younger listeners are shaping their own podcast experience by seamlessly switching between video and audio formats to fit their daily routines.

This flexibility makes podcasts an adaptable companion for every moment. Fans might watch intently as a dramatic moment unfolds, switch to audio-only while running errands, then pick back up on their laptops at home, all while dropping comments and responding to polls. 

There is a fundamental shift in how podcasts are created and consumed, and it’s clear that podcasts are no longer dictated by creators alone. With Spotify’s interactive features like polls, comments and effortless format-switching, creators are transforming listeners into collaborators.

At Lecheng Pag-ibig ‘To, fan messagesand episode suggestions often shape the next episode. “People tell us what they want to hear next, and we listen,” said Sam. “We’ve even done episodes based on a listener’s comment or letter. That’s why we make it a point to thank them for the content inspiration through shout-outs. We want them to  know that we see them, and their input makes all the difference.”

Over at Chicks 2 Go, their audience plays an active role in building the show. Their growing community of “chicksters” suggests topics, reacts to episodes, and even turns screen grabs into memes. “It’s more than a podcast — it’s one big friendship. We use our podcast as a space to connect, grow, and learn alongside our listeners,” said Hershey. “Their stories and insights help shape the show, and in the process, we all get to know each other better.”

Filipino creators on Spotify are powering richer, more dynamic storytelling, and transforming passive listening into shared experiences. They’re fostering vibrant communities that don’t just consume but are emotionally invested, active participants; proving that the future of podcasting is built on connection and not just conversation.

For more information, check out updates on For The Record: Podcasts.