Indie rock artist Ligaya Escueta has been announced as one of the Philippine representatives at this year’s South by Southwest (SXSW) showcase in Sydney, running from October 15 to 18. She will join R&B musician August Wahh, who has been raising funds to cover the costs of the trip.
Escueta’s manager Owie Dela Cruz posted on Facebook calling for support through donations and an upcoming fundraiser. “We can’t do this on our own! Please pray that [the band’s] visa appointment will be scheduled sooner than expected,” the post read. Additionally, August Wahh has embarked on a mini-tour all around Metro Manila in music venues such as 123Block, Kashmir, and Apotheka to raise funds for the upcoming trip.
The call reflects the challenges of covering costs and logistics needed to make the Sydney trip possible. Artists invited to SXSW Sydney shoulder their own expenses, including travel, accommodation, and visas. Unlike other international festivals, the event does not provide funding or reimbursements, making it challenging for many acts in the Asia-Pacific region to attend. To offset this, artists often rely on crowdfunding campaigns or support from cultural institutions in their home countries.
The festival has consistently drawn Filipino talent in recent years. Art-pop singer ena mori represented the Philippines in SXSW Austin in 2023, and SXSW Sydney in 2024; folk singer-songwriter Clara Benin represented the country in SXSW Sydney in 2024, while math-rock guitarist Gabba performed in SXSW Sydney in 2023. Escueta and August Wahh’s inclusion continues the growing presence of independent Filipino musicians at international showcases, though the financial burden of participation highlights the uneven playing field artists from developing music markets still face.
