What Became of Manila’s Squad-Based Rave Culture?

Manila’s Squad-Based Rave Culture: A Look Back

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Manila’s rave scene was a complex network of ravers from different parts of the metro area. This network started with the launch of RAVE.PH and NMR in 2014, coinciding with the rise of Electronic Dance Music (EDM) in the Philippines. Over time, smaller groups, or “squads,” formed based on location and shared interests.

More Than Just Parties

These squads weren’t just groups of partygoers; they were tight-knit communities built around a love of music and nightlife. Members attended festivals, bars, and clubs together, creating lasting friendships. #PLUR

Competition and Community

As the scene grew, so did its competitiveness. Online rivalries occasionally flared up, but a shared passion for the music always brought people back together.

Images that you can hear.

The Impact of Time and the Pandemic

Manila’s rave squads largely consisted of young people. As members aged and priorities shifted, particularly during the pandemic, maintaining these squads became more challenging. The pandemic significantly impacted the frequency and nature of these gatherings.

Squad culture wasn’t unique to Manila; it existed globally, originating in underground dance scenes and spreading throughout Asia. Read also: How a Queer Couple is Shaping Cebu’s Bass Music Scene

Support for Local DJs

Squad culture strongly supported local DJs, who were viewed as integral members of the community. Some groups, like the Philippine Shuffle Squad and Luminescence, even collaborated with DJs on stage performances.

The pandemic had a significant impact on the nightlife industry, resulting in a major shift in the dynamics of squad-based rave culture. With no parties, festivals, or raves, the traditional way squads operated was disrupted. The pandemic brought in a new party-goers more interested in socializing and escaping their daily lives, replacing party-goers who attended events for the experience.

Dan Calingo of Hell Squad

A shift towards more transient partygoers, primarily interested in social media content rather than the music itself, contributed to the decline of squad-based rave culture.

Global Similarities and Differences

While Manila’s squad culture had unique aspects, it shared commonalities with similar scenes worldwide. The emphasis on community and friendship extended beyond just parties.

Support for local DJs was also a global phenomenon. DJs like ManilaBombSquad and Those Damn Nerds played a key role, frequently engaging with various squads.

The Future of Squad Culture

The pandemic undeniably impacted Manila’s and global squad-based rave culture. While the future is uncertain, the unique culture that once flourished should be remembered. A new generation may yet create a new type of squad-based rave scene that honors the past while embracing the future.

Memorable mentions: Neverland Manila, Hydro Manila, Chroma, Raveolution, BASS N’ BACON, YoungGunz, Cove Manila, Chaos, House Manila, In-House, Close Up Forever Summer, Unleashed, ADHOC, Road to Ultra PH, Valkyrie/Palace, Maskipaps, Happy T at Taft, URBN QC, Rave Manila, Hell Squad, Team Lowkey, Solo Ravers Unite, iPlur, Team Solo, BLVKVRMY, Gang Vibes Ph, Lipadcrew, Hydro Manila Splashmob, No Ego, Chai Cruz, Nick Hernandez, Drew Reyala, CB Bautista, Kevil Pableo, Art Oca, Ace Ramos,…comment below if we are missing a name.

Featured Image: Hydro Manila Music Festival – Sai Zacarias
In-Between Article: Young Gunz / Chroma Music Festival – JaCas
In-Between Article 2: Hydro Manila Music Festival – JM Gonzales