When I debuted as a female DJ in 2018 at Centrall Gastropub Dipolog, I was immediately fascinated. I felt like I’d finally found a place where my passion for music and the love of curating the vibe came together perfectly. I spent hours learning the basics, experimenting with sounds, and feeling a new kind of excitement each time I played. Unfortunately, that first stint didn’t last long. With a full-time job, no real mentorship, and very limited support, I had to step away, even though it wasn’t what I wanted. For a while, it felt like a part of me was missing.
Then in July 2023, something changed. I felt this urge to go back after I played in the coffee shop of my friend at an event called “House Blend”. I thought that if I do go back, I want this time with a fresh mindset, learn from the beginning, and I am willing to give it my all. My first controller in this new journey was the DDJ FLX4 that I got from Spin DJ Philippines. It was simple, nothing flashy, but it was enough to get me back in the groove.
I got my first real gig at the Bamboo Place in Panglao in October 2023. All gigs that followed were a chance to learn more about the crowd and discover what kind of DJ I wanted to be. And with each gig, I’d tuck away one blue bill as a sort of memento—maybe to remind myself of every milestone, or maybe just to see how far I could go.
At first, I didn’t even know what I was saving for.
To me, it was a fun way to keep count of the nights I’d spent on stage, doing what I love. But somewhere along the line, that pile of blue bills became a symbol of my commitment and my growth as a DJ. Each bill represented one night I’d spent pouring my energy into my craft and building confidence.
The more I saved, the more I felt that maybe I was working toward something bigger. I didn’t know what it was back then.
One year later, after more than a hundred gigs, I realized I was finally ready for an upgrade—to take things to the next level and get the kind of gear that could match my evolving style and goals.
That’s when I got my XDJ RX3, my first-ever standalone controller from Silent Noise PH.
And wow, what a feeling it was when I was unboxing it at home. I knew this investment would open up new possibilities, giving me the tools I needed to elevate my sets. Finally, I felt like I had a controller that aligned with my ambitions, a powerful upgrade that could prepare me for bigger stages and more dynamic performances.
The XDJ RX3 isn’t just a new piece of gear — it’s a beautiful gift that I have given to myself in celebration of my first comeback anniversary. But this journey and this achievement aren’t only my own. I owe so much of it to the incredible people who believed in me along the way.
Moving to a new city here in Davao, where I knew hardly anyone, I made the choice to pursue the passion I had set aside five years ago. And honestly, it’s amazing to reflect on the support I’ve received from people who took a chance on me, despite not really knowing who I was or where I came from. There’s a special kind of respect I hold for them, knowing they opened doors for me when they didn’t have to. I wouldn’t have gotten this far without them. This part is mostly dedicated to Tita Joy of Fullbar Gastropub — my musical residency in Davao.
Looking back to last year, I remember that I didn’t have much in the way of experience or a lengthy track record. All I had was my love for music and a strong desire to be behind the decks, sharing that love with a crowd. That’s exactly what I told bar owners and head DJs whenever I reached out. My pitch was simple: I wanted to play music and contribute to the vibe. Over 90% of the pitch that I sent were rejected, but it was perfectly fine. The 10% who have given their trust on me is what matters.
Djing is one of my outlets — a way to channel my creativity and connect with others. I never wanted to get into a competitive mindset or fight for a gig slot; instead, I was just grateful for each opportunity that came my way. And in every set, I poured my heart and soul into it to make each moment count.
With the XDJ RX3, it almost feels like I’m starting all over again, and I love that feeling. This upgrade is a fresh beginning, a chance to deepen my skills and reconnect with what makes me passionate about DJing in the first place. There’s so much more to learn, and I’m embracing that process—it keeps me grounded and reminds me how far I’ve come, while always pushing me to be better. This milestone is about a commitment to myself, a tribute to those who believed in me, and a promise that I’ll continue to give everything I’ve got to the music and the people who make it all worthwhile.
Well, to wrap it all up, this blog isn’t just about buying a new controller; it’s about a dream, a leap of faith, and all the people and moments that helped shape it.
Every step of this journey—every gig, every new city, and every person who genuinely supported me adds so much depth to what I’m building. And honestly, taking the time to celebrate that through this story is such a beautiful thing.
