A new song titled Filipino Boy is making waves among the Filipino community in Dubai—and for good reason. The track, produced and recorded in the UAE, brings together three Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) turned rappers to spotlight Filipino culture, grit, and positivity in a genre often known for its edgier themes.
“We wanted to create something that speaks of who we are—not just as rappers but as Filipinos working and thriving abroad,” Eugene Paul Domaluan, one of the artists featured in the track, shared with TGFM. “Filipino Boy is not just a showcase of our talents, but a celebration of the Filipino values, culture, and grit that we carry with us wherever we go.”
The trio behind the track includes Eugene, a Business Development Manager working remotely for a Boston-based company; Rodel Naviamos Doromal, an auto technician at Royal Swiss Auto Services in Dubai; and a fellow rapper known as Ako Si Juan, each bringing a distinct style to the collaboration.
For Eugene, the decision to release Filipino Boy now was driven by the desire to offer something different. “A lot of songs in OPM hip-hop today revolve around money, fame, and women—which is totally valid. But we felt there was room for music that uplifts and unites. This song is for every Filipino, wherever they may be.”
The collaboration started in the heart of Dubai’s underground hip-hop scene. “I met Doromal and Ako Si Juan through local events. Doromal came up with the original idea and invited us over to his studio to jam,” Eugene said. “The energy was right—we were all in from day one. It’s not every day you get to work on something this meaningful in hip-hop.”
Despite their day jobs, the artists carved out time on weekends to bring the project to life. “We all work 9-to-5, so it was about squeezing in creativity during off-hours,” Eugene said. “Recording with people you vibe with made it fun. Honestly, it felt like 80% bonding, 20% recording—but we gave it our all once we hit the mic.”
The final production was handled by Dubai-based sound engineer Imani Vici, with visuals brought to life by video director and editor Japsyy Ballers. The team also gave thanks to their sponsors, credited in the official YouTube release of the song.
More than just a musical collaboration, the track draws strength from each artist’s story. Doromal, who moved to Dubai eight years ago as a trainee technician for Audi Al Nabooda Automobiles, channels his personal experiences into his music. Known for tracks like Imulat Mo and Bagong Bayani, he blends themes of resilience, societal issues, and OFW life—often drawing from a life-changing car accident that pushed him to pursue his passion for music more seriously.
“Doromal brings high energy, while Ako Si Juan has this laid-back but sharp lyrical style. They’re both OGs in the Pinoy rap scene,” Eugene said.
A standout element of Filipino Boy is its clean, family-friendly content—an intentional move. “We wanted something people could sing out loud with pride,” Eugene emphasized. “It proves you don’t have to drop bad words to make an impact. We can still go bar for bar and represent strong.”
The track was designed to resonate with Filipinos across the globe. “Whether you’re heading to work, cooking, or just relaxing at home—this is something you can play anytime, anywhere,” said Eugene. “We hope it becomes an anthem for all hardworking Filipinos.”
As for what’s next, Eugene shared that more music is already in the works. “Each of us has solo tracks dropping soon, and more collabs are lined up. We’re all dreamers, and this is just the beginning.”
