Tokyo, Japan — Filipino music takes the spotlight on the international stage as Cup of Joe, Dionela, and Earl Agustin are now under consideration for the Best Song Asia category at MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN (MAJ) 2026.
The three acts are in the running with their standout tracks—“Multo,” “Marilag,” and “Tibok,” respectively—marking a strong showing for the Philippines in one of the awards’ most globally significant categories. Their entries highlight the continued rise of Filipino music, as local artists gain traction on streaming platforms and with international audiences.
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.
Beyond the Philippine entries, the category also includes songs from across Asia such as “Golden” by REI AMI, Kpop Demon Hunters Cast, EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, HUNTR/X, David Guetta and “The Cutest Pair” by Regina Song, many of whom have built strong regional and international followings—further emphasizing the interconnected nature of today’s music landscape.
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.
April 30 marks the date MAJ announces the official nominees for Best Song Asia. Fans can get involved by voting through Best of Listeners’ Choice in collaboration with Spotify, from April 30 to May 20, 2026. Discover the nominees and back your favorite local artists with your votes.
- Japanese Song voting: https://www.musicawardsjapan.com/en/category/best-of-listeners-choice-japanese-song-powered-by-spotify
- International Song voting: https://www.musicawardsjapan.com/en/category/best-of-listeners-choice-international-song-powered-by-spotify
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/