As Pinoy pop groups such as BINI and SB19 continue to rise, so too do the different genres emerging from the Philippines. Tracks like “Tibok” (Beat) by the Filipino singer-songwriter Earl Agustin, which debuted on Billboard Hot Excl. US signal the growing international recognition of Filipino music. Other acts like ALAMAT, VXON, KAIA, and G22 are following the footsteps of these ascending groups, further building up the country’s presence on the world stage. Now, a new contender has entered the scene. Meet YSLA, one of the Philippines’ newest and promising girl groups.
In an exclusive interview with &ASIAN, YSLA discusses the concept behind their photos and the lyrics of their pre-debut single “Bubble Date”, released on 23 February.
Hello, YSLA! To kick things off: please introduce yourselves and tell us about the group!
Joana: Hi! We are YSLA, an independent 5-member P-Pop girl group. We started performing on stage in 2024 and introduced ourselves in the P-Pop scene last year 2025. Our group name takes its name from “Isla,” reflecting the beauty of the Philippine archipelago and its rich culture.
The group consists of members named, Mikat, Joana, Venus, Cyla and Yonicah.
We saw your post on social media announcing your official fandom name, “Kyslap”, and it is so cute! Can you tell us about the meaning of the name?
Joana: Our fandom name, “Kyslap”, actually comes from the word “kislap”, which means spark. We changed the spelling to “Kyslap” so the name YSLA is still part of it. It represents the spark between us and our fans.
(Original Tagalog: Parang kayo yung mga stars namin, kayo nagbibigay ng light and energy sa amin. Without “Kyslap”, walang “kislap”.)
Your pre-debut single “Bubble Date” looks amazing, especially the concept photos. Do you have any behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the shoot?
Mikat: The shoot for “Bubble Date” was a memorable experience for us, especially because we handled everything as an independent group. It wasn’t easy as we had to maximize every resource and opportunity we had, from planning the concept to executing the shoot itself. What really helped us was that each member brought something different to the table.
With backgrounds in marketing, design, psychology, events, and auditing, we were able to divide tasks and support one another in ways that made the whole process smoother. It was challenging, as it was inevitable that conflicts would arise due to differing ideas, strategies, and perspectives. But it was also fulfilling, because it reflected our determination to make this pre-debut happen.
What was the inspiration for these concepts?
Venus: First love and kilig, a unique Filipino word with no exact English translation, so unique that it was officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary. Since one word can’t fully capture it, here’s an entire song dedicated to that feeling.
Our pre-debut features two distinct looks: The first concept, Bubble, captures a soft, dreamy, almost fairytale-like vibe. It represents the floating, cloud-nine sensation of first love that feeling of being completely swept away. As Jolegend Slaydangal famously sang, “Chuvachoo choo… Heaven, nasa heaven ako.” (Heaven, I am in heaven) It’s light, magical, and blissfully romantic.
The second concept, Date, introduces a touch of reality. While it still carries the sweetness of romance, it grounds the fantasy into something more relatable, which is why it’s styled as chic red and denim. Together, these two concepts portray the journey of first love: from dreamy infatuation to heartfelt reality.
Can you share your favourite lines in “Bubble Date”?
Mikat: “Nahihiya’t naiilang, but I wanna make you mine” (Feeling shy and a little awkward, but I wanna make you mine).
The first part reflects vulnerability and fear of rejection while the latter shows courage and determination.
As someone who has experienced uncertainties, passion and willpower can be powerful enough to turn a fragile hope into a dream worth fighting for. In short, just go for it.
Joana: “Mayroong kislap, sa’ting mata” (There is a spark in our eyes)
Given that our fandom name is Kyslap, it resembles the word “kislap”. Kyslap, because we have spark. When “Bubble Date” plays, there is something. Not only kilig, but there’s a connection.
Venus: “Kung di pareho ang nadarama, patuloy bang aasa sa wala?” (If we don’t feel the same, will we keep hoping for nothing?)
It’s giving reality check, girl. Let us not be delulu.
Cyla: “Take my hands, oh, if you please”
This line is a bit unforgettable for me since the demo version has these ‘pleasing’ lyrics that we are trying to figure it out how to tone down, haha!
Yonicah: “Is this what they call a crush? Feeling ko, I’m in a rush”
I love this line because it perfectly captures that chaotic, butterflies-in-your-stomach moment when you like someone. The kind where you’re not sure if it’s really a crush, but the nervousness and excitement is so intense.
Do you have any musical influences as a group?
Joana: As a group, we have different musical influences, but many of our members come from the cosplay and J-Pop community, so that definitely influences how we style ourselves and present our concepts. In terms of K-pop, we’re inspired by groups like IVE, STAYC, and GFRIEND.
For OPM and P-Pop, we look up to artists like Donnalyn Bartolome, Nadine Lustre, Yeng Constantino, and Janella Salvador. We admire their individuality and how they bring their own personality into their music. We try to blend all those influences while still creating a sound and identity that’s uniquely ours.
Since you’re an independent group, do you find it challenging working without a record label?
Mikat: Working without a record label is challenging, especially when it comes to finances, promotion, and access to resources, as well as navigating the Philippine entertainment industry. Another factor is the current economic situation in the country. We still need to work to support our families, so we can’t focus on this full-time just yet.
What we truly appreciate about being independent is having creative freedom over our music and message. It pushes us to work harder, support one another, and stay true to who we are as artists. In the end, these challenges make every achievement feel more meaningful because we know it comes from our own passion and teamwork.
If you had to describe the rest of the group in one word, what would it be?
Joana: Resilient.
Cyla: Divergent? Haha!
Venus: Chaotic.
Mikat: Inquisitive.
What are your favourite songs?
Joana: Currently, my fave songs are BINI’s “Infinity” and “Katabi”.
Cyla: Ariana Grande? SB19? Sabrina Carpenter? If I choose one per artist: “Sweetener”, “Bazinga”, “Busy Woman”. Also, “Bittersweet” by Madison Beer.
Venus: “So Easy (To Fall In Love)” by Olivia Dean, “Fall In Love Alone” by Stacey Ryan, “Duyan” by Lil’ Jay, “Put Your Records On” by Corinne Bailey Rae… one thing they have in common is that they feel soothing to the ears. I’m also kinda hooked on this Vispop song “Baile” right now by Do Medi.
Mikat: Yeng Constantino’s “Ikaw”, Hey June’s “Lasik!”, KAIA’s “Tanga” and Jennie and Dua Lipa’s “Handlebars”.
What song have each of you got on repeat today?
Cyla: “Bittersweet” by Madison Beer, since January? Haha! [It’s] literally on repeat.
Venus: “WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!” by RAYE, the song is so dynamic that it feels like playing it
just once isn’t enough to fully appreciate the song.
Mikat: I’ve honestly been looping “ODD” by Gaeul from IVE. I’m hoping to release a similar style of music someday.
Joana: “Folded” by Kehlani. I just love her voice and how she does vocal riffs! I want to learn how
to do it.
What’s your dream P-Pop collaboration?
Cyla: Of course since I am a proud A’TIN despite of the busy schedule that I am not that-so-updated with SB19, I really hope that someday soon we could have a collab with the Kings of P-Pop.
P-Pop is rising. The “Nation’s girl group” BINI are set to perform at Coachella 2026, and many other groups are receiving global recognition as well.
Why do you feel that P-Pop is being seen internationally right now?
Cyla: I think one of the reasons P-Pop is being recognised internationally right now is because people are becoming more open-minded and curious about different cultures and sounds. They are more willing to listen to the music from other countries and P-Pop is finally getting the attention it deserves.
It shows P-Pop has its own unique style and identity that people around the world can appreciate. I think this is just the beginning, and it’s exciting to see how it will continue grow internationally.
What is your dream stage or event to perform?
Joana: Our hope and goal is to go beyond the usual stages we have been performing at
since we started. We are hoping for a bigger stage like the Sulong! PPOP Concert, the Wonderful Moments Music Festival, ASAP etc.
We don’t have TV exposure. So we are also aiming to be featured on the national television this year.
Cyla: The Aurora Music Festival! I haven’t attended events like that, since it’s a bit far? Haha! But I really like to go, especially performing there!
Venus: The Sulong! PPOP Concert it looks fun and there’s interaction with other groups, it’s a good challenge for me, as an introvert.
Mikat: The New Frontier Theater.
If you didn’t pursue careers in music, what would you all be doing?
Mikat: I’m currently working as a UI/UX and Graphic Designer, which is my first love hile having YSLA activities. I already tried to forget music but there seems to be an imbalance with my life so I doubt not pursuing it either way.
Joana: I always wanted to be an actress someday. But currently, I am working in a company as part of a marketing team. Other than that, having my own business.
Venus: Cosplaying, before I got in the group, it’s already where my heart is. I really love crafting and dressing up and the fantasy aspect feels like an escape from reality.
Cyla: Performing? Well, it’s still connected haha! Maybe working abroad or travelling around the world?
Yonicah: I am still currently studying. I wanted to have my own business soon.
Imagine: in the next five years, you have a documentary about your group.
What would be the title of this documentary?
Venus: YSLA: Out of Water hahaha! Because honestly this is so tiring as hell. We feel like we are drowning!
We may look like we’re fine but we’re merely just swans that flutter kick their legs under the water, where no one can see us struggling, just to stay afloat. I hope we land on that YSLA soon to take a break and celebrate.
What were some of your most memorable moments of 2025?
Joana: Our first cupsleeve event last December 2025 was definitely memorable for us. At first, we were hesitant to push through because we weren’t sure if people would actually come. But we were so surprised and grateful when more than 10 KYSLAPs showed up just to spend time with us.
It may not seem big to others yet, but for us, it meant everything. Seeing them there, supporting us in person, reminded us why we do this. We’re truly grateful, and we’re hopeful that KYSLAP continues to grow even bigger in the future.
Cyla: I didn’t expect that I had a lot of projects; YSLA or Personal Projects. I had a great time with 2025, seeing SB19 a couple of times especially at their concerts. For YSLA, I am thankful we did it, despite of the impact of we-know-it (good luck for overthinking)!
Venus: The YSLA Cupsleeve event organized by KYSLAPs. Last year, the fans also organized a cupsleeve event on my birthday, and I traveled from Antipolo to Pampanga to see them. Kinda wished for it to be with my other members too and then, exactly one year later, wish granted.
This year’s CSE came at a time when we were coming from a very busy and stressful schedule, so it truly felt like a breather. Seeing the KYSLAPs there, showing their love and support, made me feel seen and appreciated. It reminded me why I don’t give up, that all the hard work, long days, and sacrifices of the group are worth it because of them.
Mikat: YSLA’s first cupsleeve event left an impact and made me remember that despite being a small group who didn’t come from an agency, there will always be someone who will appreciate our work. We appreciate KYSLAPs so much and value the time they spend to make us feel loved.
I think one of the reasons P-Pop is being recognised internationally right now is because people are becoming more open-minded and curious about different cultures and sounds. – Cyla
Congratulations on your nomination by PPOP Stage for “Idol of the Month”! This is a big achievement for a pre-debut group.
How does it feel to be included in the list of nominees?
Joana: First of all, it was unexpected that were included right away. Honestly, that was our first reaction. We are grateful to be nominated since it was our first time being part of the PPOP Stage. We did not win, but we will work harder, improve, and push ourselves to reach that goal in the coming months. We thank the Kyslaps for supporting us!)
What do you hope fans take away from listening to YSLA?
Joana: Some of us are really inclined toward music, so we’re very hands-on when it comes to contributing to the melodies, songwriting, production, and arrangement. We truly pour our hearts, passion, and hard work to what we create. More than anything, we hope our listeners feel connected to our music. We want YSLA to feel like a best friend you can hold onto whether you’re in love, feeling sad, celebrating something, or just going through life.
If our songs can comfort you, understand you, or grow with you, then we’ve done what we set out to do.
What can fans expect from YSLA going into 2026?
Mikat: As we move into 2026 with our pre-debut single “Bubble Date,” we’re excited to show more sides of ourselves through new songs and concepts that reflect who we are and what we’ve been working hard on behind the scenes. We want to keep improving, not just musically, but also regarding how we connect with our supporters.
There will be more performances, more content, and more opportunities to share our journey as an independent group. 2026 is all about taking the next step forward, at ito ay paalala na “Malayo pa, pero Malayo na”. (and this is a reminder that “Still far, but we have come far”).
“Bubble Date” is out now. YSLA can be found on Instagram and all major streaming platforms.
TEAM:
Lead Editor: Maddie Armstrong
Managing Editor: Aimée Kwan
News & Entertainment Reporter: Andros Resurreccion
Further edits and checks are thanks to our extended editorial team