dwta as the Bicolana Musical Fairy Who Resonates with You in More Ways Than One

From Dilaw, Asin, Abra, and Alamid, here comes dwta—a rising artist whose stage name is not just inherently Filipino, but a brand that tells a story, makes a statement, and connects with her audience on a deeply cultural level.

At first glance, dwta can be read as ‘diwata,’ a Filipino word for fairy. This mythological meaning is a perfect fit for Jhasmine Villanueva's enchanting tunes and unique stage presence. But the name has a deeper layer: it's a portmanteau of diwa (essence or soul) and tala (star or guiding light).

In this #MusicIssue cover story, dwta reveals how her name embodies her artistry, her vision for Bikol music, and her mission to hold a space for every listener—all in a language that doesn't just speak, but truly resonates.

Life in Bicol

Far from a newcomer chasing clout, this folk-pop artist arrived on the scene with a profound purpose and an unwavering understanding of her craft. Hailing from Tiwi, Albay, dwta shared that being raised in Bicol undeniably molded her as a person and artist.

“I spent a lot of time surrounded by nature and listening to elders tell old legends and folklore. That kind of storytelling stuck with me. It made me love the idea of capturing feelings through words and melodies.”

She adds that everything in Bicol felt so raw and real, something that one is compelled to write from the heart. This authentic, heartfelt music is what enchants listeners from the very first note—and that is exactly what dwta has done.

Even with her recent shift to a bolder sound in ‘Nasusunog (Pants on Fire),’ dwta's music retains the sense of calm and grounded authenticity she has cultivated throughout her career, a style deeply rooted in her Bicolano life.

‘Uy, Bicolano!’

Apart from the usual Taglish music we grew up with, there has also been a rise in regional music entering the limelight. Visayan Pop, with artists like Kurt Fick, Karencitta, and even TJ Monterde, has seen its fair share of mainstream success. But Bikol music? Not yet.

Debuting ‘Daluyong’ in 2020, the singer-songwriter admitted to having second thoughts about pursuing music in a regional language not as widely spoken.

“I was thinking, ‘May makikinig ba ng Bikol songs? Will people even get it?’ I felt like maybe I had to stick with Tagalog or English to reach more people.”

Yet, sticking to a sound that felt unnatural wasn't working for dwta. But a songwriting competition that required her to write in her native language gave her the perfect push. It provided the motivation she needed and solidified her calling as an artist.

“That changed everything for me. Writing in Bikol hits differently. It felt so sincere and honest like I was speaking straight from the heart. I also had amazing friends and mentors who reminded me how important it is to tell our stories in our own language,” she stresses.

Five years later, she is no longer a lone pioneer in putting Bikol music on the map. She has been joined by artists like her schoolmate, Tomas, whose group Alamat has also infused Bikol lyrics into their songs. For dwta, this entire journey feels completely surreal.

“Sometimes I still can’t believe I get to be part of this. Like, wow, people are actually singing in Bikol on bigger stages now. It makes me proud that our roots are being heard and celebrated, and I hope this opens more doors for other artists from different regions too.”

Behind the music

Writing in Bikol is one thing; creating music that holds a space for people is another. This dual purpose is at the heart of dwta's artistry. "I love how magical my stage name sounds," she says, "and it feels like that when people tell me my songs enchant them."

She adds, “I get messages from people saying, ‘I have no idea what the lyrics mean but I cried.’ I think that’s the beauty of music, it goes beyond language.”

The indie singer, who describes herself as a hirarom artist (Bikol for "profound"), feels that her music always has a quiet depth. It's soft on the outside, but once you really listen, it hits somewhere deeply personal.

Whether it's guiding people home to their own feelings, making them feel seen, or simply being with them in silence, dwta’s music truly resonates in more ways than one.

But before she could bring her music to life, she first had to face a more personal challenge: exploring her experiences and confronting her emotions head-on. This process, in turn, led her to understanding herself on a much deeper level.

“Even if I’m not writing about love, I’m always writing about a feeling,” she notes. “I think I realized I’m braver than I thought. Writing music forced me to confront emotions I didn’t even want to admit to myself.”

dwta also confessed she used to fear performing, a feeling that is deeply understandable for an artist presenting her music to an audience that doesn't share her native tongue. “But the more I did it, the more I understood that being vulnerable is actually a strength. Music taught me that it’s okay to not have it all figured out.”

While dwta hasn’t figured everything out yet, we're sure of one thing: she is gradually taking her time to give Bikol music its own mainstream success. And this is only the beginning for dwta. With songs and collaborations on the horizon, she’s ready to deliver a magical experience not often found elsewhere.

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Photography by Miggy Brono

Art Direction by Joe Andy

Words by Kryzzle Cailing

Sittings by L.A. Bendaña

Parcinq Intern Gabrielle Barrios

Styling by Rye Bread

Hair and Make Up by Aira Castor

Special thanks to Lesly Alimangohan, Chen Cornelio, Rhanica Restrivera, and Raiza Bunagan

Shot on location Roppongi 128

Publisher Big Pictures Asia

For partnership or advertising inquiries: Sales & Marketing – jsmooth@bigpictureasia.com