Celebrating Filipino Entertainment Excellence: The Side Projects Music Awards

17 July 2024

The Side Projects Music Awards (SPMA) aims to recognize the passion and talent of Filipino artists, musicians, event organizers, and producers who have dedicated themselves to entertaining the Filipino community in the United Kingdom and beyond.

Port Mallillin, the Founder and Executive Producer of SPMA, initiated this project in May 2016. Inspired by the exceptional talent of Filipino musicians in the UK, he sought to honor their contributions to arts and culture, which often go unrecognized. Mallillin has witnessed the genuine happiness of award recipients, who finally feel appreciated for their musical contributions. SPMA also honors the behind-the-scenes contributors, including promoters, DJs, organizers, organizations, and media professionals.

Some notable past recipients include the legendary OPM and Manila Sound group Boyfriends, who received the Hall of Fame Award in 2017 for their hits “Dahil Mahal Kita,” “Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal,” “Sumayaw Sumunod,” and “Nais Kong Malaman Mo.” Gary Perez of Anak Bayan/Sampaguita, known for composing “Tao,” “Laguna,” and “Bonggahan,” received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. Other honorees include the late Councillor Cynthia Barker as Woman of the Year 2017, Gia Macuja as Best Female 2017, and Neneth Ortega as First Best Female 2016.

The latest, 5th Side Projects Music Awards, was held at Apo Resto Bar on July 7, 2024. Apo Resto Bar was named the No. 1 karaoke bar in London, showcasing the talent and passion of Filipino performers. Highlights of the evening included performances by Saxifrago from Oxfordshire, Team Karma, OGL, Kimtastic, Jahna Lucero, Mervin Monocillo, and the Philippines’ Bossa Nova artist Marvin Velasquez. Jun Mallillin received the “Salamat ng Musika” award for SPMA 2024. The event was hosted by Lani Belle (Helping Hand Hero SPMA 2024), with DJ Kizzer awarded Best Host and Ivy Maliwat. Other awardees included Olea Tezka (Best Music Video Director 2024), Jun Patelo (Music Savant), Racquel Reyes (Woman of the Year SPMA 2024), and Producer Port Mallillin, the Executive Producer of SPMA.

Through the SPMA, Filipino artists and contributors are celebrated for their dedication and talent, highlighting their significant impact on the community and the music industry.

Here are the list of the awardees for Side Projects Music Awards 2024:

Rock idol – İpe Panganiban

R & B King – Karlitos Way

Guitar Master – Norbz Gayanilo

Finest Bassist – Mac Arceo

Baddest Drummer – Jon Nazareno

Rap Boss – GR8jayce

Dope lyricist – Aziatic

Best Group – OGL