Manila, Philippines – After a breakout 2025 defined by the viral ascent of “Pag-ibig Ay Kanibalismo II” and “Kalapastangan,” Filipino alt-rock band Fitterkarma opens 2026 with the launch of their new single, “Aswang Sa Maynila.” The release will be celebrated through Bangungot: “Aswang Sa Maynila” Single Launch, happening on February 14 at 123 Block, Mandaluyong City.
The event, produced by Fitterkarma in partnership with GNN and ONErpm, places live music at its center. The band is set to perform an hour-long set—longer than their usual shows—featuring familiar tracks, unreleased material, and a handful of unexpected covers.
“Fans can expect a very exciting lineup of artists supporting us,” says frontman Joao de Leon. “For our set, we’ll be playing more songs than usual, including some older tracks and unreleased material. We’re also preparing a few surprising covers, which we’re really excited to share.”
A Scene That Remembers
In the Manila indie landscape, time has a way of leaving visible marks. Seventeen years can feel like a lifetime—long enough for labels to rise and fold, for once-beloved venues to vanish beneath glass and concrete, and for the restless urgency of youth to harden into something more deliberate. The scene moves fast, often without looking back, demanding constant reinvention from the artists who inhabit it.
Against that backdrop, moments like this—an intimate single launch rooted in live performance—feel quietly defiant. Rather than chasing immediacy, the night invites attention. It asks listeners to stay, to listen closely, to allow sound and silence to share the same space.
About “Aswang Sa Maynila”
Set for release a day before the launch, “Aswang Sa Maynila” explores themes of displacement and longing. At its core is the feeling of emotional exile—the quiet frustration of offering everything to someone who never fully sees or hears you.
“It captures the feeling of not belonging in someone’s heart, no matter what you do,” Joao explains. “It’s about wanting to say so much to a person you care about but ultimately feeling powerless and unheard.”
The song was composed by Joao, with bandmates Soph, Ders, and Mikee shaping their respective parts. Production was handled by Xergio Ramos, who helped balance the band’s layered ideas while adding depth to the arrangement. Drawing from J-Rock and heavier-leaning music styles, the track also features guest vocals from Kai Sevillano of Novocrane—marking Fitterkarma’s first collaboration with another artist.
An Evening Built for Listening
More than a release event, Bangungot: “Aswang Sa Maynila” Single Launch serves as a gesture of gratitude to a steadily growing fanbase. Beyond the live set, attendees can expect booths, exclusive merchandise, and interactive activities throughout the venue, transforming the night into a shared experience rather than a fleeting performance. Additional supporting acts will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets are available via https://www.bit.ly/aswangsamnl
Holding Ground
Known for their gothic, folklore-inspired themes and emotionally charged songwriting, Fitterkarma has steadily carved out a space in the Filipino indie scene. In 2025, “Pag-ibig Ay Kanibalismo II” reached No. 1 on Spotify Philippines’ Top 50 and the Billboard Philippines Hot 100, while “Kalapastangan” followed closely behind. Both tracks earned spots on year-end best-of lists from Billboard Philippines, Rolling Stone Philippines, and Flying Lugaw.
In a music culture defined by speed—by skipping, shuffling, and constant forward motion—“Aswang Sa Maynila” suggests something more grounded. It does not rush to keep up with the current. Instead, it stands within it, assured and reflective, inviting listeners to pause and stay awhile.
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