Filipino singer-songwriter dwta closes whimsical folk era with self-produced anti-Valentine’s show

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta will be headlining her self-produced music gig, Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta, on February 13, 2026, at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City.

Billed as an anti-Valentine’s show, Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta will feature a special extended set from the Bicol-born artist, whose body of work has redefined romantic and anti-romantic storytelling with sharp wit, offbeat visuals, and emotional sincerity. The evening will also bring together a stellar lineup of guest performers, including shirebound, Janine Teñoso, Jan Roberts, Kenaniah, and LEYO.

Beyond the live music component, the event will put a spotlight on local merchants and creatives such as Hunghang Flashbacks, Amoy Scents and Candles, and Tattoo Studio PH. Hosting duties will be handled by Conyo Bicolano.

The show, according to dwta, is dedicated to ‘single’ listeners seeking meaningful, organic encounters. “This show is perfect for them. Since I’ve written more broken songs than love songs, this felt like the right chance to highlight them, especially with my new single. I’ll be playing a long set featuring my original songs, both old and new, along with the cover I recently released. I’ll also be teasing a song we’ve been working on that reflects this new dwta sound.”

The acclaimed songstress reveals that this gig will mark a pivotal moment in her journey as an artist, as it provides a fitting closure to the whimsical folk leanings of her previous era.

“After this, I’ll be stepping into a new era with a more mature sound and writing,” dwta adds. “It’s not just the music that’s changing, but also my appearance and overall vibe. I really hope people get to experience this show and see how I started back when I was just Jhasmine Villanueva. This isn’t just an ordinary gig; it’s a moment to show how my music has really evolved.”

Earlier this year, dwta released a cover of “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito,” originally performed by Lea Navarro and written by Carlos Agawa and Ernie Dela Pena. The track, which serves as her first official release in 2026, conveys enduring love and devotion despite odd circumstances in life.

“For my version, I wanted to focus more on the feeling,” dwta reflects. “I wanted the listener to imagine being inside the song. Like it’s late at night, you’re alone in your room, lying in bed, hearing the sound of crickets outside, crying quietly, and hoping that tomorrow will be better. That soft moment of vulnerability and hope is what I really wanted to convey in this song.”

Produced by Brian Lotho, dwta’s version underwent several iterations but eventually settled into a quieter, more somber arrangement that aligns with song’s emotional weight. The “Padaba Taka” songstress explains, “After talking it through with my team, we decided to follow what feels true to dwta. We ended up going for a more raw and intimate arrangement with acoustic guitar, slower pacing, and more strings.”