Apl.de.Ap highlights love for Filipinos, PH in new EP 'PPP'

Black Eyed Peas founding member Apl.de.Ap is giving Filipinos a musical tribute through his upcoming EP “PPP!”

According to Aubrey Carampel’s report in “24 Oras” on Friday, his upcoming three-track EP is a love letter to the Philippines.

For the song, Apl.de.Ap collaborated with Filipino rock icon Bamboo.

“I think we have the same values and the same concerns about what’s going on in our country. This is my first EP outside Black Eyed Peas, and it’s personal to me,” Apl.de.Ap said.

In the music video, Apl.de.Ap highlights some of the challenges faced by Filipinos, including flooding, while also showcasing Filipinos who bring pride to the country, such as Filipino athletes.

Another track from the EP, “Turn Around,” features fellow Filipino and Black Eyed Peas member J. Rey Soul.

For Apl.de.Ap, the songs in “PPP” are his way of expressing his love for his homeland and encouraging Filipinos amid the challenges in the country.

“It’s all about love—love for our people and our culture, and encouragement to speak up,” he said.

“I’m trying to inspire people with my music with a word of positive affirmation. We hope that things will turn around by helping each other and embracing each other. I had our country in mind when I was writing these songs."

The Filipino-American singer also expressed his appreciation for his partnership with GMA Music.

“GMA has global footprints also a reach to a lot of Filipinos not just in the philippines but around the world so it's a great partnership 'cause I want to be able to reach all our kababyan from here and around the world,” he said.

“Growing up watching GMA you know and I feel like it would be a great content house for the future,” he added.

The artist also looked back on the continued global popularity of “Bebot,” the Black Eyed Peas hit that has recently been featured in various viral online content.

“I just feel really super supported and proud that it’s being embraced by our kabayans around the world. I think a lot of Filipino-Americans and diaspora are discovering themselves and who we are, and we’re being recognized around the world for our culture,” he said.

“I remember writing that song, calling my mom, checking my Tagalog if it was right 'cause I haven't spoken it in a while, but it's becoming I'd say it's an anthem,” Apl.de.Ap added.

Apl.de.Ap, alongside his fellow Black Eyed Peas, performed in the Philippines in August 2025.

Aside from “Bebot,” the group is famous for the hit songs “I Gotta Feeling,” “Pump It,” and “Where Is the Love?”

—Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA News