On my previous blog about the Kami Naman After Party in Sinulog 2025, I mentioned how this industry event can really inspire you to be better and find yourself as an artist. That first Kami Naman experience gave me a different perspective on how to brand and position myself in the industry.
While I’m still continuing to build and improve, one thing I’ll always love doing is going back to the dancefloor — being part of the crowd, listening to other artists play, and getting inspired by them. It keeps me grounded. Sometimes when you’re the one behind the deck, you get caught up in the technical side of everything — the transitions, the crowd reaction, the energy build-up. But when you go back and just listen, it reminds you why you started, and it’s simply because you love music.
That’s exactly why I wanted to attend this year’s Kami Naman in Bacolod for the Masskara Festival. And I’m grateful to be given the chance to be lined up along with other amazing artists in the industry. Big thanks to the “Kami Naman” hosts — Jacob Casile and MC Pao Avila for this opportunity!
Here are my 3 takeaways from another amazing Kami Naman After Party experience — because, honestly, this event really shows the overall character of an artist:
1. Your personal taste in music matters.
Kami Naman is a different space. The hosts encourage artists to play beyond the mainstream — even your own produced tracks if you’re a DJ/Producer. It really tests your sound and creativity, especially since each set is just 30 minutes long. The challenge? How can people remember you in such a short time?
That’s what I love about the format. It forces you to make every second count. You can’t play it safe. You have to trust your sound and go all in.
Personally, I really enjoyed the sets of Kobeast MNL, Gio x Matt CEB, Jet Sweater ILO, and Ian Caram BCD. Each of them had its own flavor that stood out. It’s cool to see how different cities have their own sound identity, all contributing to one movement that celebrates individuality.
2. Attitude and respect go a long way.
One thing I noticed and truly appreciated is how every artist respected others’ time slots. It shows professionalism, and it’s something that reflects great character. We were all there to enjoy, listen, and celebrate good music. At the end of the day, again as I mentioned in my previous blog post, we’re just people who love what we do — and I love seeing artists do exactly that.
It’s easy to forget that behind every set is someone’s passion and effort. Kami Naman reminded me that respect in this scene isn’t just about giving others their turn, but it’s also about supporting them, hyping them up, and learning from each other. I guess that’s the unspoken bond between DJs.
3. Building connections is part of the job (and I still suck at it LOL).
One of the most important parts of Kami Naman is networking — meeting people, talking, and building relationships. And to be honest, it’s something I really need to work on. I tend to get socially awkward most of the time LOL 😂
But you know what?
At Kami Naman, music becomes everyone’s language.
I remember dancing all night with people I hadn’t even introduced myself to yet, but it was so cool how we all connected through the same love for music.
That’s the beauty of this event. Even if you’re not the type to start conversations, just being present already connects you to something bigger. The shared energy, the nods between sets, the random “yo that was fire!” moments — those are the kinds of interactions that stick with you. At least for me.
Where are they heading to next?
Well, I would love to see a “Kami Naman” event in Kadayawan (DVO) or Higalaay Festival (CGY) soon. That would really tie up great artists around Mindanao.
If you’re a DJ, producer, brand representative, any nightlife personality, or someone who genuinely loves this culture, I highly recommend experiencing Kami Naman at least once. It’ll challenge you, inspire you, and remind you that the real magic of this scene happens not just onstage, but in those moments when the music connects everyone as one.
Find them on socials, and be the first to RSVP on the next ‘Kami Naman After Party’ event! They might be in your city soon. 😉
- INSTAGRAM: @kaminamanafterparty
