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After years of making music with the Black Eyed Peas, Grammy-winning Filipino-American artist Apl.de.Ap is putting his love for the Philippines front and center in his first solo EP, “PPP” or “Power Pilipino People.”

The three-track project marks a personal new chapter for Apl.de.Ap, who described the EP as his “love letter” to the country and a reflection of his connection to Filipino culture.

“This is my first EP outside of The Black Eyed Peas, and it's very personal to me. I'd say it's my love letter to our country, the Philippines,” Apl.de.Ap said.

Among the tracks in the EP is “Why,” a collaboration with Filipino rock icon Bamboo.

Apl.de.Ap and Bamboo became close while working together on “The Voice of the Philippines,” where they served as coaches. Their friendship eventually led to the two artists teaming up for the new song.

“I've collaborated with Bamboo, we became close doing The Voice together, I think we have the same values and same concerns on what's going on in our country,” Apl.de.Ap said.

For the musician, “Why” goes beyond simply being a collaboration between two artists. He said the song expresses his love for Filipinos and their culture while encouraging people to speak up.

“There's a song called 'Why' and it's about love for our people, our culture, encouragement to speak up,” he said.

The EP also features “Turn Around,” a collaboration with J. Rey Soul, and “Pinoy United,” with Datu Khomeini.

Apl.de.Ap's latest project comes as he continues to use his music to highlight Filipino identity on an international stage. GMA Music partnered with the artist for the worldwide distribution and release of the EP, further connecting his global audience with Filipino music and artists.

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