HUNYO is an independent alternative rock band from Marikina City, Philippines, drawing deep inspiration from the golden era of 2000s OPM rock. With emotionally driven lyrics, melodic guitar work, and raw authenticity, their music blends nostalgia with a modern edge—honoring the heart, storytelling, and energy that defined an iconic generation.

Band Members:
- Jhun Cruzado – Vocals, Songwriter
- Paulyne Uyan – Vocals
- Harry Sanvictores – Drums
- Rhocky Mariano – Bass
- Arjaykim “Kim” Silorio – Lead Guitar
- Jacob Tenorio – Guitar

Origins and Formation

Jhun Cruzado discovered his passion for songwriting in 2008 during his college years at the Technological University of the Philippines, where he was an active member of the TUPAS (Technological University of the Philippines Artists Society). Initially the drummer in his college band, Cruzado embraced songwriting when his bandmates transferred to another university, leaving him part of a duo. For their organization’s “Acoustic Night” event, he composed and performed his first original song, “SABAY”, which won Best Composition and marked the beginning of his artistic path.
Over the years, Cruzado began posting his raw compositions on social media. In 2019, he joined Songwriters’ Night by Songwriters’ Philippines at the iconic CONSPIRACY Garden Café in Quezon City. Encouraged by the feedback he received and supported financially by his cousin Nonie Cruzado and wife Patty, he released his debut single “SUGAL” in February 2021, recorded at Polysonic Recording Studio with producer Henry Alburo. He followed this with “Alam Ko Na” in August 2021, backed by his brother Alther Cruzado. These tracks gained airplay on JAM 88.3 FM and developed a modest grassroots following.

In December 2021, Cruzado released “LQ”, a duet with longtime partner Paulyne Uyan, reflecting their relationship. The track became a breakthrough hit, featured on Monster RX 93.1’s Indieground and added to several major Spotify editorial playlists, including New Music Friday, Pinoy Alternative, and OPM Rising.
Determined to evolve beyond solo performances, Cruzado formed the full band HUNYO. He invited bassist and trusted choirmate Rhocky Mariano, and drummer Harry Sanvictores, whom he met through Singles for Christ. Finding a lead guitarist proved difficult, until a mutual friend introduced Arjaykim “Kim” Silorio, who was initially hesitant due to lack of live performance experience. However, after a convincing jam session, Kim joined the band. Their first performance as a full band, officially recognized as HUNYO’s founding date, was on December 30, 2021, at Social House, Circuit Makati.

Growth, Lineup Evolution, and Sound Completion

In 2022, HUNYO released two new original tracks: “Show Me Your Smile” and “Biyahe”, continuing to perform across Metro Manila. During a brief hiatus taken by Rhocky, Harry invited his friend Jacob Tenorio to fill in as a session bassist, and Frain Reyes of Sugarcane played as a session guitarist. Their strong chemistry with the band supported HUNYO through a dynamic period of growth.

In 2023, the band achieved a significant breakthrough when they were invited to perform at the Rakrakan Festival, one of the biggest music festivals in the Philippines. After several months, Rhocky returned to the band. Recognizing Jacob’s valuable contributions, the band proposed that he join officially as rhythm guitarist, despite being a bassist by background. Jacob accepted the offer, cementing his role in the group.
To complete the lineup, the band welcomed Paulyne Uyan as their second main vocalist. A longtime supporter and collaborator since the band’s early days, Paulyne brought vocal contrast, emotional depth, and a fresh dynamic to the group’s evolving sound.

Notable Projects and Releases

In 2023, HUNYO was invited to participate in the SICK VIRAL VERSIONS project, where they covered “Lose Control” by Teddy Swims featuring Paulyne on lead vocals. The cover was officially released in January 2024.
On December 29, 2023, HUNYO premiered their first official music video for “LQ”, directed by John Selirio. The release was timed with their live anniversary show, held just before midnight to mark their second year as a full band.
They followed with the release of “HINDI AKO” featuring Paulyne on backing vocals, and in 2024, “Bahala Na”, where Paulyne took the lead vocal role, showcasing the band’s expanded creative range.

Milestones and Recognition
• 200,000+ views for “LQ” music video on Facebook
• Featured in SICK VIRAL VERSIONS alongside HILERA, ANDROID-18, UNDERCLASS
• Performed with top OPM acts including Rocksteddy, Imago, Join The Club, Barbie Almalbis, Lola Amour, Autotelic, MYMP, Munimuni, Letter Day Story, Tanya Markova, and more
• Festival appearances at Rakrakan Festival 2023 and #nakakaLocal Culturefest 2025 by The Philippine Star

Media Features and Radio Play
TV Appearances:
- RJTV: Let’s Groove
- PTV4: Sundown
- NET25: Enjoy Music Beyond Crisis
- Tunog Abante: Tunog Pinoy
- It’s Showtime Online U
Radio Airplay:
Jam 88.3, Monster RX 93.1 (Indieground), Rakista Radio, MAGIC 92.3 FM (Cebu), iFM 93.9, 92.3 Favorite Music Radio
Discography Highlights
• Sugal
• Alam Ko Na
• LQ
• Show Me Your Smile
• Biyahe
• Hindi Ako
• Bahala Na
• Magkikita Ba Tayo

Legacy and Vision

HUNYO channels the energy and emotion of OPM’s golden era—inspired by bands like Rivermaya, Sugarfree, Hale, Moonstar88, and Imago. Led by songwriter Jhun Cruzado, the band remains dedicated to crafting music that explores love, risk, self-discovery, and the shared stories of Filipino youth. Through their evolving sound and heartfelt performances, HUNYO continues to honor the past while boldly defining their future in the local music scene. Read more on Last.fm. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.