Filipinos be heard
The podcast industry is growing rapidly. We’ve seen drastic developments in the consumption of audio programs throughout the years, especially today as most countries are still on quarantine. There has been a major shift in the way people take in information, and audio programs are among the main platforms today with their easy-to-consume format.
In the Philippines, the podcast scene is significantly on the rise as well. In fact, nine Filipino exclusives were launched in September last year through one of the world’s most popular audio streaming service, Spotify. These original Filipino podcasts, the first to be commissioned by the Swedish media company, are Sleeping Pill with Inka, Boiling Waters PH, Adulting with Joyce Pring, The KoolPals, The Eve’s Drop, Ask Say, Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast, Walwal Sesh, and Wake Up with Jim and Saab. This year, more Filipino programs join the ranks of other exclusives like The Michelle Obama Podcast, Nas Talks, The Joe Rogan Experience, and Archewell Audio.
‘Podcasting also helped us stay connected so we didn’t feel alone throughout the pandemic.’
“We are excited to work with some of the most popular personalities in the Philippines to create original content. These creators, all with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, will be able to give a fresh take on local topics through podcasts made for Filipinos by Filipinos,” says Carl Zuzarte, Spotify head of studios for Southeast Asia. “We know that an increasing number of Gen Zs and Millennials in the Philippines are exploring podcasts as a new audio format to discover great storytelling and alternative entertainment options. Through podcasting, people can get to know what makes their favorite personalities tick through intimate conversations covering anything from relationship advice to health tips or even just a good laugh between friends.”
These original Pinoy podcasts can currently be accessed on-demand, across free and all subscription plans, on Spotify.
Between Us Queens
Miss Universe 2015 winner Pia Wurtzbach and fellow beauty queens Bianca Guidotti and Carla Lizardo share their experiences, talking about what it means to be a modern Filipina in this podcast.
“More than just beauty queens, Bianca, Carla, and I are human beings—with our own struggles and stories to tell. Maybe from a different perspective lang, but we’ve had our own battles with insecurities, societal pressure, and existential crises. Through Between Us Queens, we’ve found a new avenue to share our thoughts and experiences. Podcasting also helped us stay connected so we didn’t feel alone throughout the pandemic,” says the host Pia. “I personally love podcasts because they’re another way for me to learn something new kaya I feel very honored to be working with Spotify to bring more original podcasts by Filipinos for Filipinos.”
Huwag 'tong Makakalabas
Spoken-word artist and film writer Juan Miguel Severo flips through his old journals and hidden letters meant to be kept secret for this podcast. He lets listeners into his world and gets as real, raw, and personal with spoken word pieces, sharing afterthoughts behind each story, all in 15-minute episodes or less.
Payaman Insider
A weekly spontaneous chat show by the country’s largest online collective famously known for their irreverent friendly banters, Team Payaman. This podcast consists of the iconic vloggers Junnieboy, RogerRaker, Peachy Twice, and Boss Tryke.
Itatama Pa Ba o Tama Na?
After going viral for filming herself unboxing personal effects returned by her ex-boyfriend, recording artist and internet personality Donnalyn Bartolome is taking the chance to help real life lovers settle the score or mend things. Through her podcast, she helps mediate unofficial couples therapy sessions so people can learn and grow from their heartbreak.
“Relationships are a very important part of Filipinos’ lives and, with hope, through my podcast, I will be able to reach out to more people and help couples air their grievances, learn to move on and let go, or maybe even give things another shot kung kaya pang ipaglaban (if there’s a fighting chance),” explains Donnalyn. “As someone who’s been there and done that, alam ko kung gano kahirap ‘yang mga ‘yan—hindi talaga joke ang break ups (I know how hard it is—breakups are no joke) and I hope to be able to help my guests and listeners grow as individuals.”
Growing Up with Ben and Kris
Close to hitting their 30s, best buds popular YouTuber Benedict Cua and his manager Kristian Somera start to reflect on their early 20s, and how people of the age group can be better and do better as they take on the next chapter of their lives.
The Raid with Alodia & Ashley
The country’s biggest Facebook game streamer and one of the OG local cosplayers, Alodia Gosiengfiao,is joined by her sister Ashley as she geeks out on all things anime, and gaming and as they give people a sneak peek into what an otaku sibling duo’s life is like.
Superhuman
Making his debut in the podcasting scene is award-winning vlogger Wil Dasovich who is bringing his own brand of introspective storytelling through an audio diary of sorts about his pursuit of overall well-being. “I’m thrilled that Spotify is producing more Pinoy-specific content through the launch of Filipino original podcasts. I’m really excited to be a part of this journey as I go into podcasting for the first time and to be able to give more listeners a more intimate perspective on how I view health and fitness,” says the cancer survivor and renowned vlogger. He deep dives into the ever-changing world of health to answer the question, “What does it take to be a Superhuman?”
“I look forward to reaching more people and expanding my audience through Superhuman. I hope that my listeners will be able to relate, learn, and be inspired by my stories and experiences,” says Wil.