GUIHULNGAN CITY, Negros Oriental — Filipino reggae star Elias J TV and his band are set to bring their island-rooted sound to Guihulngan City on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in what is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated live music events in northern Negros Oriental this year.
To build excitement around the concert, organizers have launched an online raffle giving away 100 free tickets to bonafide residents born in Guihulngan City. The raffle draw is scheduled for April 10, 2026, just one day before the live show.
The event marks a significant cultural milestone for the northern Negros Oriental city, bringing a nationally recognized artist to perform on local soil. With the concert scheduled just three days from now, anticipation among music fans and residents continues to build.
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Free Ticket Raffle Mechanics for Guihulnganons
Interested residents can enter the raffle by clicking the official Google Forms link and filling out their full name, address, and contact number. Only one entry per person is allowed, and incomplete or inaccurate entries may be disqualified.
Winners will be selected through an online raffle draw and notified ahead of the concert date. The mechanics make clear that the giveaway is open exclusively to bonafide Guihulnganons — a nod to the hometown spirit of the event.
The 100 free tickets represent a significant opportunity for local residents to experience a major live music performance without cost. Organizers have emphasized that verification of residency will be strictly enforced to ensure the tickets reach their intended beneficiaries.
Rise of a Reggae Phenomenon
Born Elias Gabonada Lintucan Jr. in Magpet, North Cotabato, Elias J TV has become one of the most talked-about reggae artists in the Philippines today. The 25-year-old rose from humble beginnings — helping his father tap rubber trees before school — to becoming a viral social media sensation with millions of followers across Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
His breakthrough came when his reggae rendition of “Boliviaz Riddim” racked up over five million views on YouTube, earning him a loyal following not only in the Philippines but also among overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
He is known for hits such as “Lipad,” “Puhon,” and “Isayaw Mo Naman Ako,” with his music available on Spotify and Apple Music, where his band draws hundreds of thousands of monthly listeners. His songs often carry messages of love, healing, hope, and cultural pride, resonating particularly with OFWs who credit his music with helping them cope with loneliness and homesickness.
The Musical Ensemble Behind the Sound
The Elias J TV Band is composed of musicians mostly from Mindanao, showcasing the rich musical talent from the southern Philippines. The ensemble includes Jandave Alborme on saxophone, Adrian Rama on bass, Sherwin Bernardo on drums, Jayvee Lavisures on lead guitar, and Axle James Villadores on trumpet.
Backing vocals are provided by Kenji Bangkas, while keyboard duties are shared between Kit Aldrin Marohomsar and Mikael Kendal Gadiano. The group operates under the management of Beverly Pumicpic Labadlabad, who has helped orchestrate their rise to national prominence.
This diverse musical arrangement allows the band to deliver the full reggae experience, complete with brass sections and rhythm guitar work that has become their signature sound. The collaborative nature of the band reflects the broader Filipino musical tradition of ensemble performance.
International Recognition and U.S. Tour Success
Elias J TV’s influence has extended well beyond Philippine shores. In September 2025, he and his band completed their first-ever U.S. tour, with stops in Hawaii, California, and Texas, performing for Filipino communities in Waikoloa, Maui, Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Houston.
The tour was produced by Paduk Entertainment LLC, with ABS-CBN Global serving as the official media partner. The success of these international performances demonstrated the global appeal of his reggae-influenced Filipino music and established him as a cultural ambassador for Philippine music abroad.
The U.S. tour particularly resonated with Filipino-American communities and overseas workers, many of whom found emotional connection in his music’s themes of home, identity, and resilience. Concert venues reported strong attendance and positive reception across all tour stops.
Television Acting Debut Expands Artistic Reach
More recently, Elias made his acting debut in the GMA Network fantasy series “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre,” playing a role that bears his own name. This milestone represents his expansion from music into mainstream Philippine television entertainment.
The artist has expressed pride in bringing Mindanao’s voice and language to national television, viewing his role as an opportunity to represent his regional culture on a broader platform. This crossover into acting demonstrates his growing influence in Philippine entertainment beyond the music industry.
His television appearance has further solidified his status as a multi-platform entertainer, appealing to audiences across different media formats while maintaining his musical identity and cultural roots.
Cultural Impact on Filipino Communities
The artist’s music, often described as soulful reggae with messages of love, healing, hope, and cultural pride, has resonated deeply with listeners across different demographic groups. His appeal spans generations, from young social media users to older Filipino workers abroad.
OFWs have particularly embraced his music, with many crediting his songs for providing emotional support during difficult periods away from home. The themes of longing, hope, and cultural connection strike a chord with Filipinos living and working in foreign countries.
His signature “Elias moves” — distinctive dance movements that accompany his performances — have become recognizable elements that fans recreate in social media videos, further amplifying his cultural reach and influence.
Significance for Guihulngan City Entertainment Scene
For the people of Guihulngan City, the April 11 concert represents more than just a live show — it’s a rare opportunity to experience a national reggae phenomenon performing in their hometown. Major entertainment events of this caliber are uncommon in smaller Philippine cities, making the occasion particularly special for local residents.
The concert promises to feature his uplifting anthems and the full energy of his complete band, delivering what organizers describe as “an unforgettable night” for attendees. Local officials and community leaders view the event as a boost to the city’s cultural profile and entertainment offerings.
With the raffle limiting free tickets to 100 winners, residents are being encouraged to submit their entries early to maximize their chances of attending this significant musical event in their city’s entertainment calendar.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Kenneth/Breaking News Negros Oriental
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