For many fans, Alamat is known for chart-topping songs, powerful performances and its growing influence in the P-pop movement.

But for the six-member boy group, the mission extends far beyond music. As Alamat made its Dubai debut during Kalayaan 2026, the group told Expat Media that one of its continuing goals is to help preserve and celebrate the Philippines' diverse languages and cultures by incorporating even more regional dialects into its music.

The multi-ethnic and multilingual P-pop group arrived in Dubai on Friday (June 6) and headed directly to a media conference at BurJuman ahead of its highly anticipated performance at Kalayaan 2026 the following day.

For members Tomas, Mo, R-Ji, Alas, Taneo and Jao, the trip marked their first visit to the UAE and their first opportunity to perform before one of the largest Filipino gatherings outside the Philippines. The excitement was evident as members spoke about exploring Dubai and connecting with overseas Filipinos who continue to support the group's unique cultural vision.

Celebrating Philippine languages

Known as torchbearers of Filipino culture in the music industry, Alamat has built a loyal following by blending modern pop music with traditional Philippine languages, indigenous sounds and regional representation.

Unlike many mainstream pop acts, the group embraces linguistic diversity as a central part of its identity. During a lively question-and-answer session with Expat Media, members were asked to share their favourite words from their own dialects.

For Alas, who speaks Bisaya, the answer was immediate. "Pag sure oy!" he said with a laugh. "It means, 'Are you sure?'"

Mo, whose roots trace back to Zambales, chose a popular Tagalog expression. "'Weh,'" he replied, drawing laughter from the audience. It is Tagalog slang for “really?”

Tomas, who hails from Albay, shared a word from Bicol. "'Siram.' It means delicious." Jao, representing Kapampangan heritage, offered a similar answer. "'Manyaman.' It also means delicious," he said before teasing the crowd. "Manyaman ko?"

R-Ji, who is Waray from Borongan, Samar, followed suit. "'Karasa' or 'marasa.' It also means delicious."

Meanwhile, Taneo highlighted an Ilokano expression. "'Manyabid.' It's an expression, like saying, 'Oh man!'"

The exchange reflected one of the group's defining characteristics: celebrating the rich tapestry of Philippine cultures while making regional identities visible to a new generation of Filipinos.

More than a boy band

As Alamat celebrates its fifth anniversary, the group has become one of the most distinctive acts in the Philippine music industry. Its songs regularly incorporate Tagalog, Ilokano, Kapampangan, Bisaya and other Philippine languages, while music videos and performances often draw inspiration from local traditions, folklore and cultural symbols.

The group's commitment to cultural representation has earned it recognition not only among music fans but also among advocates of language preservation and Filipino heritage. 

Their hit songs, including Maharani and multilingual debut single kbye, have helped introduce younger audiences to languages and traditions that are not always represented in mainstream entertainment.

Alamat's appearance at Kalayaan 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre on Sunday (June 7) placed the group before one of the largest audiences of its career. Organizers said more than 60,000 people attended the event.

The celebration also featured performances from actress and singer Arci Muñoz, as well as fellow P-pop groups 1ST.ONE and G22. Presented through Emirates Loves Philippines, Infinite Communities and The Filipino Channel, the event showcased Filipino culture through music, dance, community activities and business exhibitions.

Following their Kalayaan appearance, Alamat is set to return to the stage in Dubai for a standalone concert at the Pakistan Auditorium in Oud Metha on June 13. The performance is expected to draw fans from across the UAE and the wider Gulf region eager to see one of P-pop's fastest-rising groups live. PIA/Expat Media