19th Philippine International Jazz Festival set on June 14
Black Cows
The 19th Philippine International Jazz Festival, also known as PIJazzfest 2025, returns this June 14 at 4 p.m. at the APC Auditorium, Asia Pacific College in Magallanes, Makati City, promising a gathering of musical excellence, intimacy, and inspiration.
PIJazzfest was born out of a passionate desire to bring jazz to Filipino audiences. What started as a humble grassroots event has now evolved into a premier celebration of world-class jazz.
Richard Merck
This year, hosted by Harvard scholar Jazzyphar, the festival features a stunning lineup of local and international talent, including Awit Awardee Jerome Rico, Argentinian tango singer Anibal Ansin accompanied by tango dancers Jang and Jenn, the world music ensemble Anima Tierra, the Black Cows (a Steely Dan tribute band), and the stylish Velvet Jazz. There will also be special appearances by Henry Katindig and Richard Merk.
International headliners include the acclaimed a cappella group Straight No Chaser and Indonesian guitar virtuoso Balawan, who will also host a free guitar workshop open to all.
Straight No Chaser with Sandra Viray
“It all started when we realized that the Philippines had no jazz festival, even though there were so many good players, and from back then, Filipinos loved jazz. Around us, jazz festivals were sprouting in the region, except here. We decided to do something about it, so through the skin of our teeth, we mounted the 1st Jazz Fest in 2006," Sandra Lim Viray, founder of PiJazzfest, said.
Asked what sets PIjazzfest apart, Viray said: “It’s non-profit. It is the dream to bring the world of music to the Filipinos and our music to the world. Not everyone is fortunate enough to travel and experience other types of music, so we bring foreign music here to enjoy, learn from, and be inspired by. They come here, almost always for the first time, though they’ve been everywhere but the Philippines, and they go home, awed, and can’t wait to come back."
This year’s Philippine International Jazz Festival is supported by the Department of Tourism under its ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign.
Katherine JennifeSo what’s in store for its second decade next year? “Only God knows. If I had all the money in the world, the festival would be free and open to the public. Then the music will flourish. And the world will be a happier place,” Viray added.
Tickets are available at all major ticket outlets, Ticketworld, Ticketmax, and SM Tickets.