Filipino boy band SB19 is preparing for their Netflix documentary debut with “Pagtatag! The Documentary,” which offers an intimate look at their mental health struggles and rise as P-pop pioneers.
The five-member group – Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin – opens up about vulnerability, industry pressures, and representing Filipino music globally in the documentary, which begins streaming July 23. Directed by Jed Regala, the film chronicles their journey during the “Pagtatag!” EP era with unprecedented honesty.
“Seeing our journey, the highs and struggles, unfold on screen made us appreciate how far we’ve come together as a group and individuals,” reflects member Ken. The group was actively involved in shaping the documentary’s final cut, with Justin restructuring the narrative to follow a chronological timeline.
The band made a deliberate choice to address mental health and personal challenges directly. “We believe it’s important to be real and honest about the challenges we face day to day,” says Stell.
“Opening up about mental health, industry pressure, and personal troubles helps break the stigma and shows that even though we’re artists and performers, we’re still human.”
SB19 achieved historic milestones including becoming the first Filipino act nominated for a Billboard Music Award in 2021. Their recent single “Dam” debuted at number one on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart, while their hit “Gento” sparked viral dance challenges and attracted international collaborations.
The Netflix platform represents significant global exposure for P-pop. “Having our story streamed on Netflix is a huge step not just for us, but for P-pop as a whole,” says Ken. “It truly validates all the years of hard work and shows that Filipino talent deserves to be seen and heard on the same platform as other global artists.”
For Pablo, the documentary offers international audiences authentic Filipino perspective: “It’s not just about music or success, but about the struggles, the purpose, and the culture we carry. SB19, or P-pop in general, is not trying to be anyone else. We’re building something rooted in who we are as Filipinos.”
The group hopes their story inspires viewers worldwide. “I really hope they see no dream is too big, you just have to keep working and trying,” says Josh.
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