Did You Know? These ‘Ang Mutya ng Section E’ stars belong to all-male P-Pop group ‘GAT’
A fresh boy group, GAT, is stepping into the Philippine music scene, bringing a blend of polished vocals and sharp dance routines. Managed by Ivory Music and Viva Artists Agency (VAA), the five-member group—Ethan David, Charles Law, Michael Keith, Derick Ong, and Hans Paronda—aims to make a significant impact on local entertainment.
The name “GAT” draws inspiration from the old Filipino title “Gatdula,” a term used for respected men who brought honor to the nation, like Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio. This connection signals the group’s intent to uphold standards of excellence and respect within their craft, delivered with their own unique style.
Early Impressions and Viral Moments
GAT initially gained attention with a pre-debut video in January, where they covered James Reid’s “Huwag Ka Nang Humirit.” Their version added a youthful energy and smooth harmonies to the original track. This was followed by their take on “Marikit” by Juan Caoile and Kyleswish, further building their online presence.
However, their cover of “Daleng-Dale” truly propelled them into the spotlight. Their rendition of the MMJ single, used as the soundtrack for the Viva One series “Ang Mutya ng Section E,” reached number eight on Spotify Philippines’ Daily Viral Songs chart. Additionally, their choreography for the song became a widespread trend on TikTok.
The group has also appeared on various local television shows and events, including a guest spot on “Eat Bulaga’s” “Sugod Campus” segment and a performance at the Zambales Singkamas Festival. Beyond music, several members of GAT also feature in the supporting cast of “Ang Mutya ng Section E,” expanding their reach to a wider audience.
Individual Strengths, Collective Power
Each member of GAT brings unique skills to the group. Ethan David has acting experience in films like “Squad Goals,” “Two Weeks, End,” and “How To Love Mr. Heartless,” showcasing his versatility across different mediums.
Charles Law, known for his engaging personality, has appeared in films such as “Penduko” and “The Ship Show,” as well as the series “The Rain in España.” He brings a noticeable energy to the group’s performances.
Michael Keith, an R&B artist, demonstrates vocal range with his ability to switch between soulful singing and rap verses. His singles “Ayayay” and “Drowning” offer a preview of his musical style.
Derick Ong, with his dance skills and easygoing charm, connects with audiences. A former hockey and volleyball player, he adds a diverse background to his musical talents.
Hans Paronda, a 2020 “Born to Be a Star” runner-up, possesses a strong and expressive voice. His singles “Ok Lang Ako” and “Puto” (featuring Janno Gibbs) highlight his vocal capabilities.
Future Performances and OPM’s Next Chapter
Having gained traction with their cover songs, GAT is now preparing to showcase their original material. They performed at Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival at the CCP Open Grounds on March 15 and at the P-Pop It Up event at Viva Cafe on March 22.
As part of Viva Music Group and Viva Artist Agency’s roster, alongside groups like RAYA and MUTYA, GAT is positioned to contribute to the growth of OPM, one performance at a time.
