Entertainment
G22 Doesn't Need The Spotlight To Shine
The trio is perfectly in sync, ready to move P-pop forward.
Published on Aug 7, 2025
"Palaban" isn't just a lyric. It's G22's whole aura. The moment AJ, Alfea, and Jaz walked into the studio for their 10-hour Cosmopolitan Philippines cover shoot, you could feel it—the confidence, the hunger, the fire. And as they showed (and told!) us throughout the day, they're not in it for the spotlight. But when it finds them, they shine like they were born for it.
At 23, 22, and 21, they've already racked up an impressive lineup of performances, brand deals, and a fanbase that's only getting bigger. Yet even after packed schedules and back-to-back gigs, there were no signs of exhaustion, no ego—just energy, grace, and pure purpose. They powered through the day, striking bold poses, sharing stories, teasing what's next, and proving—again and again—that their drive is just as undeniable as their talent.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
"It's a revolution. It's a movement. It's a calling for us," AJ says, describing their connection with the emerging P-pop scene. The girls will be the first to say it: they're not the first under the spotlight, and they don't want to be the only ones.
G22 made it clear that they stand on the shoulders of the P-pop groups that came before them, acknowledging the collective effort that has shaped the industry. Their mission isn't to outshine, but to uplift—to help take P-pop to even greater heights, together.
A full day with the girls was more than enough to realize how G22 stands out in a world where claiming the spotlight is often seen as a reward for relentless hard work. Because for them, their success is a shared victory—a contribution to something far greater than themselves. "We're here to keep the wave going and to keep the tide high," Jaz emphasizes.
Starting The Beat
It's been three years since they debuted, but G22 still can't quite believe how far they've come. When asked where they see the group in five years, AJ exclaimed energetically, “Oh my gosh. Hindi ko nga nakita na three years from now, nandito tayo!”
It's a question we often ask artists—expecting that, despite the highs and lows, they'll choose to stay in the industry. For AJ, Alfea, and Jaz, the answer was a confident yes.
"We wanted to be one of those who push P-pop forward. It really inspired us to have that dream and have that challenge to conquer. It gives our group a bigger purpose," Jaz states.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy | Alfea wears a top from H&M. Jaz stuns in a top and skirt from Bershka. AJ's look features a top by Bench, paired with a gray coat and shorts from H&M..
It's true—these three stand together in full solidarity, driven by an undeniable passion for the stage. For Alfea, performing has always been her dream. "Since I was a kid, gustong-gusto kong nagpe-perform sa stage kahit sa school lang. Elementary hanggang high school, I wanted it. Pero hindi ko inimagine yung sarili ko na ipu-pursue ko yung dream na yun. But now, I'm grateful na I really did pursue it," she shares.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy | Alfea is wearing a baby tee from Bershka..
The same goes for Jaz, who's always had the drive to perform—whether it was singing or dancing, she knew early on that she was meant to be on stage. But her journey hasn't just been about honing her skills; it's also been about reconnecting with Filipino music on a deeper level. When we asked who first inspired her to explore the local scene, she shares with a laugh, "I think Piolo Pascual. I don't think I've ever mentioned this. But we had a duet back then when he came to Australia [for his solo concert]. And I didn't know he was Papa P!"
Jaz looked back at the memory of her singing "Hawak Kamay" with the singer-actor and realized, "Ah, ang saya maging katulad niya." Today, she finds herself in the same company as Piolo—a true full-circle moment.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy | Jaz's top and necklace is by H&M..
And AJ? She was the girl who grew up watching K-pop and P-pop idols—now, she's sharing the stage with the very artists she once looked up to. It was a dream she never thought could become reality. "Gusto ko talaga maging idol, and nasa likod lang siya ng head ko. I knew it wouldn't be so possible in the Philippines. It [wasn't] possible talaga [before]," she shares.
It was SB19 that finally made her believe. "When I saw nag-e-emerge yung SB19, nasabi ko na, 'Hala, parang naging posible na siya.’ So, naging dream ko na, sana maging part ako ng girl group—and nangyari siya," she says, a hint of pride in her voice.
But dreams like this rarely come easy. AJ opened up about how close she came to giving up—especially after a tough loss in a singing competition shook her confidence. Joining G22 wasn't just another audition; it was her all-or-nothing leap.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy | AJ's wearing shorts from Bench, paired with skirt and necklace by H&M..
"My first day [in training] was different from theirs. My first day was really my first day on the job,” she said. "Yung mindset ko talaga nung time na yun, this is my last chance kasi—actually, give up na ako sa industry noon. If I don't do this right, or if it's not for me, it's okay, it's not for me talaga.” And so, she went all out.
For Alfea and Jaz, their early training days looked a little different. Alfea took time to wrap her head around being part of an idol group, and Jaz stuck around to grow as an artist, not yet knowing what direction her journey would take. But they kept going, all for their love and passion for P-pop.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
That's on top of the rigorous training they underwent before ever setting foot onstage as the "female alphas" of their generation. It felt essential to ask: What did it take to get here? What followed was a glimpse into the discipline, structure, and sacrifice that built their foundation.
Jaz narrated, "First, we lived together. We wake up at the same time. We make sure to eat and sleep on time. Because we really rehearse 12 to 16 hours a day. Sometimes, when the sun's coming out, that's when we go home."
They had multiple coaches and various lessons for all sorts of things. "We had levels from beginner to advanced, and we had individual evaluations every month. We have vocal, we have dance—and in those trainings in between, they'll teach us different genres. We did flexibility training, culture, and so on," the youngest member detailed.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy | Alfea wears a top from H&M. Jaz stuns in a top and skirt from Bershka. AJ's look features a top by Bench, paired with a gray coat and shorts from H&M..
That was their reality—long hours of daily training, plus monthly evaluations where they had to showcase their progress both individually and as a group. Part of their training included learning about different cultures—from Brazilian to Japanese, and more—as a way to develop a diversified and holistic approach to performing.
AJ also pointed out how their other labelmates would come to their evaluations and comment about their performances. “KZ Tandingan, Piolo Pascual, manonood sayo. Grabe.” It was that nerve-wracking for them!
Finding Their Voices
Training wasn't the last of their hurdles as idols. Now that they've debuted in the public eye, the three girls are constantly exposed to negative comments. It's the reality for all celebrities, especially in the age of social media. We're all quick to comment, post, and share our thoughts—often without thinking about how our words might impact someone else.
G22 has definitely heard their share of skepticism—like the classic "A trio won't work" line. At first, it shook their confidence. But now, it might just be their biggest motivation to prove that trios don't just work—they can stick together 'til the end.
"They say trios are uncommon. So, we're breaking the norm," Jaz declared. "We show them that we're more than complete," Alfea added.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy | Alfea wears a jacket from H&M, paired with a skirt and belt by Diesel. Jaz stuns in a Diesel top, finished with accessories from H&M. AJ completes her look with a jacket and eyewear from H&M, a skirt by Bench, and shoes from Puma..
It's not the only comment that got to them—there have been a lot over the years. Jaz got candid about how some people made it seem that she didn’t belong in the industry. "I wondered: Am I not? But that doubt quickly faded," she said, brushing off the thought like it was never really hers to begin with.
Now, fully owning her identity as G22, she tells Cosmo, "We've had to make many sacrifices. We put our craft above everything else. Even when we’re sick, we choose each other every day. It's a commitment—a challenge—but it's also a blessing.”
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
In an industry this cutthroat, confidence doesn't come easy. AJ admitted she's no stranger to self-doubt, especially when the heat is on. "I overcompensate a lot. Self-sabotage, self-doubt—that is me. Pero sila [Alfea & Jaz] yung way ko to cope with that eh. Yung song namin, 'Filipina Queen,' ang dami kong doubt na, 'Maganda ba talaga?' Pero sila yung nag-assure sakin na maganda, kaya nga natin ni-release eh!" she says, laughing.
Three years in and still going strong, G22 knows the spotlight means scrutiny. Criticism still comes—but so does their drive to rise above it. They've learned how to turn high expectations into motivation. As AJ puts it, "It's a good pressure. It means meron kang paki sa craft mo."
And it shows, even in how intentional they are with their partnerships. They've collaborated with brands like Cream Silk, N.Cat, Maybelline, and H&M.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
Besides, they've built a strong connection with their fans, the Bullets. "Our fans would love kung ano yung authentic selves namin, kung ano yung iri-release namin na alam nilang kami yun. We just focus on honing our craft, and our artistry, our ability to write,” Jaz states.
The fans have played the biggest role in their journey. Because of them, G22 isn't just here to entertain or perform—they've embraced a bigger purpose: empowering and uplifting others. Jaz candidly says, “Sila ang isa sa pinakamalaking dahilan kung bakit kami nagpatuloy, kahit na ang daming bumps sa daan. Nandyan pa rin sila. Minsan nga gusto ko tanungin, ano yung nakikita nila samin, bakit sila nag-stay.”
In AJ's words, G22 wants everyone to fight for their dreams, like the fierce and palaban girls they are. “Lumaban sa buhay even during times na nakakapagod na, na you just wanna quit—especially sa pangarap mo. Our fans, nakita nila yung struggles namin—all the times na gusto na naming mag-give up. So our message always is to be empowered and to empower other people,” she tells Cosmo.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
Voices In Harmony
At present, G22 proudly stands—not at the forefront—but alongside many aspiring artists in the industry that aim to make their mark for the P-pop movement. "It's more than just achieving one's dreams," AJ says.
Alfea tells Cosmo, "We're proving na Filipinos can do it. Filipinos can go globally, not only through ballad music or bands, but also in P-pop groups."
Embracing the idea that they’re not here to claim the spotlight alone, G22 humbly recognizes the trailblazing P-pop groups who started the movement—and they’re simply here to keep the momentum alive. "We have our seniors—BINI, SB19, MNL48—sila talaga 'yung forefront. From nothing talaga yung P-pop, they crashed the doors sa mga nagda-doubt sa P-Pop," AJ strongly said.
Alfea added, “Yung mga kuya natin, SB19, sila yung humarap ng mga backlash, criticisms—like K-pop wannabes—sila 'yun.”
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
That’s another reality the girls didn’t shy away from when speaking with Cosmo. As far as this story goes, G22 keeps it real about the tough realities of being an idol in the Philippines. "It's not easy. Hindi siya glitz and glamor lang," AJ admitted.
Alfea chimes in, "It's not just a happy life." Stress comes in different forms, and as public figures, they’re almost not allowed to show signs of weakness on camera.
"A lot of people, what they see is just the output—the performance, the music videos," Jaz points out how much goes on behind the powerful performances they make. "It's so easy to see a performance on TikTok, on Youtube, and say, 'Ay it’s not that good.' There's so much happening in between the performances, behind the stage, so many technicalities. So many hours, blood, sweat, and tears, and vomiting—it's so easy to judge."
By the end of it all, G22 knows their job doesn't stop after one concert or one stage. The decision to keep growing and improving is a continuous process they commit to for as long as they're in the industry. And although it's a tough one, it's a commitment they're proud to keep making, day after day.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy | Alfea wears a jacket from H&M, paired with a skirt and belt by Diesel. Jaz stuns in a Diesel top, finished with accessories from H&M. AJ completes her look with a jacket and eyewear from H&M, a skirt by Bench, and shoes from Puma.
All Eyes Forward
G22 isn't chasing clout, virality, or the next chart-topping hit—and that's one of the most daring revelations they shared with us. "Pag hindi maganda yung kanta, we learn from it," AJ said honestly when asked how they navigate the pressures of going "viral" and staying connected to their audience. They're all about authenticity and baring it all with their fans.
That is something they're more than excited to share for their upcoming album. Yes, the girls will now have their first-ever (!) self-produced album! "They can expect an album from us na kami talaga ang nagsulat. First album after so long. Finally, magkakaroon na kami ng self-produced album. It’s gonna be a colorful album," Alfea happily disclosed.
Talking about the process of creating their songs for the album, Jaz emphasized, "Inuna namin yung artistry instead of chasing a pattern of a hit song. We just wanna be genuine and authentic and push forward the messages and our stories behind the scenes."
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
With their album in the works, milestones achieved across different eras of their journey, and new opportunities coming their way, we dared to ask about G22's plans for international recognition.
They have their sights on the international stage, but they know true success starts at home. Before taking the world by storm, they're committed to solidifying their roots and making waves in the local scene first—because a strong foundation is the key to lasting impact.
“Isang big goal din 'yan. Pero siyempre, magandang goal din talaga na inuna natin ‘yung sarili nating bansa. Kasi dito talaga ‘yung mga taong alam kung saan ka nanggaling, yung kultura, yung messsging mo. If we ever go international, kung paano kami nakilala sa Pilipinas, gusto namin ganun din kami makilala sa ibang bansa," AJ proclaimed.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
It's one of the defining moments of our conversation. Getting a glimpse into the insights of young, passionate, and humble artists like G22 is a feat in itself. Their journey highlights a rare understanding: that true success demands more than viral hits or fleeting fame—it requires a solid foundation rooted in community, cultural pride, and being Filipinas.
"Iniisip ng mga tao, we're very emotional, mahina. But we're very strong. Kinakaya natin lumaban sa buhay," Alfea said, talking about how women are often boxed into stereotypes.
Embodying their whole imagery as strong female alphas, AJ reflects, "Being a Filipina is someone na lumalaban nang may puso." Jaz adds, "Being a Filipina means you are not standing alone." It's a principle that runs through everything they do. G22 has the genuine desire to move with the people, connect deeply with their audience, and rise together with their peers—all while staying humble through everything they've experienced.
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PHOTO: Annika Sy.
"Mata sa langit, paa sa lupa," AJ said. That's something they'll keep in their minds, even after five years of being G22. Alfea assured, "Andito pa rin kami with our fire."
G22 is just at the start of their journey—and while the road ahead is long, they're in it for all the right reasons. Through every challenge, milestone, and stage, they hold onto one powerful belief: "We just do what we do. We work on ourselves. We strive for excellence. We don’t strive to stand out—we strive to grow."
As the conversation wrapped up, Jaz left us with a meaningful reminder—one that every aspiring artist needs to hear. "I truly believe and stand by that there's space for everyone at the top. There's not just one number one. There's space for everyone to succeed."
Produced by the Cosmopolitan Philippines team
Executive Editor: Ida Aldana
Art Director: Ica Del Mundo, assisted by Gaby Molina
Photographer: Annika Sy, assisted by Luigi Mendoza & Christian Mendoza
Stylist: Eldzs Mejia, assisted by Carl Vincent Alberto, Jomari Miguel Leguera, Erika Perez, Nikko Fader, Ryan Aquino
Story: Kate Sarmiento
Makeup: Miz Raffy assisted by Dom Ocampo (AJ), Jay Salcedo assisted by Leslie Osting (Alfea), Thazzia Falek assisted by Delvi Flores (Jaz)
Manicure: New Lounge PH
Set Design: Paul Jatayna
Shot On Location: Balara Content House
Producer: Kate Sarmiento, assisted by Yana Olivar
Video: Cherrie Julian, Jino Del Mundo, assisted by Gerry Oribeda Jr. & Ruy Inigo Fajutagana
Special thanks: Cornerstone Entertainment Inc.
Kate runs on caffeine and K-drama cliffhangers. She also thrives on plot twists—on screen, on the page, and, of course, in the group chat.