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Looking Back: 2025
Before we officially say goodbye to 2025, let’s take a look at the significant moments that took place.
Jake Tan
January 06, 2026
We are now five days into 2026. Before we bid farewell to 2025, let’s take this time to look back into an incredible year for the league and Philippine battle rap. There were ups and downs, but nevertheless, the movement stays strong. Firstly, a big thank you to all of the emcees and fans. Each one of you is responsible for making 2025 such a memorable period.
It was the 15th anniversary of FlipTop. Two epic celebrations took place: one in Metro Manila and one in Cebu. The Metro Manila event, like the previous years, was a private party where only artists and close acquaintances attended. It took place at a club in Quezon City, and everyone had a great time. In Cebu, they had the Grain Assault event at Apollo Sports Bar. Fans were welcome and for the whole night, they partied with their favorite emcees from the Visayas Division while enjoying solid hip-hop tunes from DJs Kokas, Kingslay, and Eazy-Q.
The first battle event was Ahon 15 Day 3, which was held at The Events Pavilion in Shaw on March 29. It had the perfect mix of veterans and up-and-comers, and each battle tore the house down. After the matches, Anygma proceeded to announce the lineup of the 2025 Isabuhay Tournament.
Last year’s tourney was another exciting, unpredictable affair. We saw shocking moments, major upsets, breakout stars, and most importantly, game-changing battles. At the finals (Ahon 16), we saw the veteran Lhipkram take on Isabuhay first-timer Katana in a legit slugfest. Katana emerged as the champion on just his second year in the league. Congratulations once again to him for this momentous achievement. Lhipkram certainly deserves props as well for bringing his A-game and staying consistent.
2025 saw four historic Zoning events. The 18th and 19th editions took place at TakeOver Lounge in Katipunan while 20 and 21 happened at Matchpoint Sports Bar and Events in Shaw. FlipTop went back to the small room setup, and fans instantly loved it. We witnessed some big names proving that they haven’t lost a step and representatives of the new generation showing why they belong in the league. The intimate vibes brought the audience closer to the matchups, thus making them understand even the most complex lines and schemes more clearly. It was a journey back to the early days of FlipTop, and it will continue in the coming years.
Cebu experienced another wonderful hip-hop weekend starting with Rapollo Mindfields on June 27. Apart from six solid battles, Mindfields also featured amazing MC and DJ performances. On the 28th, Mariner’s Court hosted the 15th chapter of Gubat. There were eight battles, one of which was the quarterfinals of the Isabuhay Tournament. Every match delivered, and the fans in attendance proved once again why they’re the best crowd.
Metrotent Convention Center served as FlipTop’s new home in Metro Manila last year. The venue hosted four big events, namely Second Sight 14, Unibersikulo 13, Bwelta Balentong 12, and FlipTop Live. The first three gave us several match and performance of the year contenders. At FlipTop Live, the league took a break from battle rap to focus on music. It was the first event of its kind since the FlipTop Festival in 2020. The night was headlined by three Philippine hip-hop heavyweights: Loonie, Gloc-9, and Bambu. Other performers include respected lyricists KJah, Mhot, and Kemikal Ali, and legendary DJs Arbie Won, Supreme Fist, Nicko, and Phatrick. There was supposed to be a Cebu leg the night before, but sadly, Typhoon Tino came along. Anygma and co. vowed to make it up for the Visayas crowd in 2026.
Of course, 2025 wrapped up in the most epic manner with Ahon 16 on December 13 and 14. For the second time, both days took place at The Tent in Las Pinas. Two battles are already uploaded, both of which quickly made waves online. Watch out for the other videos! For those who weren’t able to attend, you are in for a treat. To those who watched live, you already know how amazing day 1 and 2 are.
So, what’s next for 2026? We just have to wait and see for now, but one thing is certain: it’s going to be another remarkable year. Belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! We hope you had a wonderful celebration with your loved ones. See you in the next events!
Unfortunately, we’ve also received some very bad news in 2025. Beloved battle emcee and Isabuhay finalist Romano and longtime fan and also artist Erlan aka Teddy Bars have passed away. Rest in peace, sirs, and thank you for the countless memories and contributions to the scene. We promise to keep your legacies alive!
