MANILA, Philippines — From the challenges of securing visas to the struggle of bringing Filipino music to international audiences, P-pop group SB19 is helping push a legislative initiative that seeks to give Filipino artists and creative workers stronger government support abroad.
Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV filed Senate Bill No. 2517, or the proposed Philippine Agency for the Creative Economy (PACE) Act, on September 30, 2026. The measure was developed in collaboration with SB19 and its management company, 1Z Entertainment, following discussions about the difficulties Filipino performers encounter when pursuing opportunities overseas.
The proposal seeks to establish a dedicated government agency that would help Filipino creatives navigate international opportunities, including visa processing, travel documentation, logistics, and participation in overseas festivals, tours, showcases, and industry markets.
From SB19’s experiences to a broader industry agenda
Aquino said conversations with SB19 members Pablo and Josh Cullen helped him better understand the challenges faced by Filipino artists working to bring their craft to international audiences.
The discussions reportedly covered the lack of a centralized support system for artists traveling abroad and the practical obstacles that can complicate international performances and professional engagements.
SB19’s song “VISA” also became part of the conversation surrounding the proposal, reflecting the difficulties that can stand between Filipino talent and opportunities on the global stage. The bill, however, is intended to benefit the wider creative sector rather than one musical group alone. <Cite refs={[“turn877400search0″,”turn877400search3”]}/>
Beyond performers and musicians, the proposed measure covers creative professionals such as dancers, filmmakers, designers, producers, writers, and other workers whose livelihoods depend on the creative economy.
More than international performances
The proposed PACE framework also aims to expand access to international markets for Philippine creative goods and services through promotion, business matching, partnerships, distribution, and other market-development initiatives.
The broader goal is to help Filipino creatives build sustainable careers and business opportunities overseas—not simply secure invitations to perform at international events.
Aquino has pointed to the creative industries’ contribution to the Philippine economy, citing estimates that the sector accounts for around 7.6 percent of gross domestic product and supports more than 7.5 million Filipino workers.
The proposal draws inspiration in part from South Korea’s Korean Creative Content Agency, which supports the country’s creative industries and their international market development.
For Filipino artists, a dedicated agency could potentially provide a more coordinated avenue for assistance when pursuing overseas engagements. The actual impact, however, would depend on the bill’s final provisions, funding, implementing rules, and the agency’s capacity to deliver services.
A proposal, not yet a law
As of the latest reports, the PACE Act remains a legislative proposal. It had been read on first reading and referred to the Senate committees on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship; Foreign Relations; and Finance for consideration. Its filing does not mean that the proposed agency or its assistance programs are already operational.
SB19 has publicly expressed support for the measure, emphasizing that many Filipino creatives face similar challenges when taking their work beyond the Philippines.
The group’s involvement highlights how artists’ experiences can contribute to policy discussions affecting an entire industry. If enacted and effectively implemented, the proposed measure could help strengthen the support system for Filipino talent seeking opportunities in international markets.
For now, the challenge is to turn the proposal into a workable policy that reaches not only established performers but also independent artists and emerging creatives who may lack the resources to pursue opportunities abroad.
The message behind the initiative is clear: Filipino talent can compete globally, but talent alone may not be enough. Access, institutional support, and opportunities to reach international audiences can also make a difference.
