In a world where P-POP beats resonate in the hearts of millions, one man’s unwavering passion and relentless pursuit of excellence have propelled him to the core of the industry. Meet Gab, the visionary leader of VER5US, a P-POP boy group. With his undeniable talent and dedication, Gab aims to elevate Filipino pop music to new heights. As I transcribe Gab’s response to the Zeen exclusive interview, his journey becomes clear—a path filled with determination, resilience, and a desire to push P-POP to new boundaries.
Gab, venturing into the world of P-POP unfolded in 2019, a serendipitous encounter sparked by stumbling upon a mesmerizing dance practice video featuring the Filipino pop sensation, SB19. Witnessing the immense talent and untapped potential within this local group struck a resonant chord within Gab, igniting a fervent aspiration to follow a similar career trajectory. As a dedicated fan of K-pop, this revelation not only inspired him but instilled a burning desire to actively contribute to the burgeoning growth and success of P-POP.
His admiration for K-pop, coupled with the allure of P-POP’s ascent, kindled a dream that seemed distant but brimmed with potential. Little did Gab know that this dream would swiftly transition into a tangible reality. Today, he stands proudly as a member and leader of VER5US, a testament to the unforeseen journey that unfolded from that initial encounter with SB19’s dance practice video. Gab now finds himself at the forefront of the industry he adores, ready to make his distinctive mark on the P-POP scene.
Gab’s story encapsulates the transformative power of inspiration and the profound impact a chance discovery can have on one’s destiny. From being an avid admirer, he has evolved into an active contributor to the very industry that fueled his dreams. This journey not only attests to the potential within the P-POP landscape but also highlights the unpredictable nature of pursuing one’s passions and dreams. Gab’s presence in VER5US marks not just a personal achievement but a contribution to the evolving narrative of P-POP, embodying the spirit of dreams materializing into vibrant realities.
Being part of the P-POP movement fills Gab with immense pride and joy. The global recognition and impact achieved by P-POP inspire him to aim even higher, hoping to make P-POP loved in more countries and unite people through music. Just as K-pop transcends cultural boundaries and touches the hearts of fans worldwide, Gab envisions P-POP following a similar path. He firmly believes in music’s power to transcend language and cultural barriers, with his ultimate goal being to create a positive impact on the international music scene.
Going on the journey of preparing a P-POP music video is an intricate and demanding process, and Gab comprehends the myriad challenges that come with it. In the production of VER5US’ music video “Alon,” the group encountered a substantial obstacle— the absence of a dedicated support team. However, rather than succumbing to discouragement, they embraced the challenge with resilience and took matters into their own hands.
Faced with the multifaceted responsibilities of music production, video shooting, styling, and marketing, the members of VER5US exhibited a remarkable work ethic, collaborative spirit, and resourcefulness. Undeterred by the absence of a specialized team, they adopted a hands-on approach, assuming various roles to ensure the seamless execution of their artistic vision. This collective effort became a true testament to their determination and unwavering passion for their craft.
The collaborative endeavor extended beyond the group as VER5US members pooled their individual resources and sought assistance from others who shared their artistic vision. This collaborative spirit not only showcased their ability to adapt to challenging circumstances but also emphasized their commitment to delivering a high-quality product despite the constraints they faced.
The production of “Alon” stands as more than just a music video; it is a testament to the tenacity and passion that drive VER5US. Through overcoming obstacles and handling diverse tasks, they not only demonstrated their dedication to their art but also showcased the camaraderie and unity that defines their journey. The story of “Alon” is a vivid illustration of how determination, collaborative effort, and resourcefulness can turn challenges into opportunities for artistic expression and success in the dynamic realm of P-POP.
As a P-POP group, VER5US encounters their fair share of obstacles, despite their rising fame and success. Financial constraints and the absence of a dedicated support team are among the biggest hurdles they face. Nonetheless, the group remains grateful for the few helping hands that have shared their expertise and supported them along the way. Gab recognizes the importance of having a dedicated team to assist them with essential tasks, allowing them to focus on developing their craft and nurturing their artistry. Through teamwork, collaboration, and a shared passion for elevating P-POP, VER5US remains determined to overcome these challenges and make a profound impact in the industry.
Gab teases fans with hints about upcoming projects and encourages them to follow VER5US’ official social media pages for updates. The group is preparing for an exciting opportunity that will push their capabilities to the next level, promising unforgettable musical experiences. With their continuous evolution and growth, VER5US pledges surprises and groundbreaking collaborations that will leave fans in awe.
Due to his love for music and dedication to his craft, Gab, the visionary leader of VER5US, emerges as a star in the P-POP industry. With his relentless work ethic and talent, he guides VER5US to new heights, ready to make their mark not only in the Philippines but on the international stage. Gab and VER5US are poised to break out as the
P-POP movement continues to captivate audiences worldwide, leaving a lasting impression on the industry they cherish
About the Author – Gion Santiago
Gion, who goes by “kionhyung” online, is a humble superstar, and no one could say otherwise.
Photography by Jai Murcillo
Assisted by Bhads Castor
Styling by Kai Chavez
Hair and Makeup by Elijah Uy
Editorial Assistant – Ristichen
Video by Knick Tangonan and Shannen de Jiz