Filipino Music Awards 2025: HELLMERRY, Hev Abi, More Among ‘Hip-Hop Song’ Nominees

This year’s Hip-Hop Song of the Year category from the Filipino Music Awards highlights how rap in the Philippines continues to evolve in both scope and purpose. From the underground to the mainstream, each track represents a different side of how the genre balances technical skill with personal and political storytelling.

HELLMERRY’s “My Day,” a track about online relationships released under Young God Records, flexes sharp delivery and production precision that captures the modern pulse of street rap today. Morobeats’ “Gubat na Syudad” stands as a reminder of hip-hop’s roots in social awareness, threading urgent lyricism with commentary on the realities of urban life. Robledo Timido’s “Gusto Ko Sakin Lamang” leans into melodic phrasing and introspection, a more emotional take within a field known for its gritty delivery. 

“SUBOMOTO Remix” by Hev Abi and Zae redefines collaboration and remix culture by layering energy and flow over an already-recognized hit, proving that reinvention remains part of hip-hop’s DNA. Waiian’s “Man in the Merror,” drawn from his acclaimed third album BACKSHOTS, rounds out the list with self-reflection and technical control that show why he’s one of the most consistent voices in the scene today.

Together, these nominees show how Filipino hip-hop remains as dexterous as ever, unafraid to speak, experiment, and challenge. 

The Filipino Music Awards will take place on October 21 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Complimentary tickets are available through Filipino Music Awards magazine packages on SariSari.Shopping.

Elijah Pareño

Music Writer

Elijah Pareño is the Music Writer of Rolling Stone Philippines. He writes daily music news, features, reviews, and radar stories of the website.

In addition to music writing, Pareño has written about the behind-the-scenes writers and producers from the P-pop scene, interviewed hip-hop artists like Shanti Dope and Zae, and featured up-and-coming artists for the Music Forecast 2026. Aside from music, Pareño has written about the state of affairs that affects pop culture. He wrote a movie review for 'Mortal Kombat II' and reported and interviewed photojournalists at the September 21, 2025 protests in Luneta and Mendiola.

Prior to working in Rolling Stone Philippines, Pareño was a freelance writer for 3 years and independent live music promoter

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