Fluminus: From Riverside Jams to Regional Recognition

What began as casual after class jam sessions among high school friends has transformed into one of the most promising rising bands from Mindanao. Meet Fluminus, a five piece pop rock/OPM band whose journey reflects brotherhood, perseverance, and the quiet pursuit of passion.

Humble Beginnings

Fluminus was born in 2017 when a group of young students, united by their love for music, decided to go beyond school stage performances and form an actual band. They started as a cover group, performing renditions of popular songs, but it didn’t take long before they began exploring original compositions.

The band’s name, Fluminus, stems from the Latin word flumini, meaning “river” a tribute to their first practice studio, located by a riverside. The symbolism fits: like a river, their journey has been a continuous flow of growth, adaptation, and creativity.

The Faces Behind the Sound

The core members of Fluminus include:

• John Michael Mancio – Vocals / Bandleader

• John Iji Pactol – Guitarist

• Justin Estoque – Bassist

• Jade Ganub – Drummer

• Hamphrey Elmidor – Keyboardist

They are joined by Richel Balignot, their official female session vocalist who brings additional vocal strength and versatility to the band’s sound.

Together, they embody the classic band dynamic tight-knit, collaborative, and driven by a shared vision to make their mark in the local music scene.

Building a Name

Fluminus has performed alongside some of the country’s most established names in OPM, such as:

• Cueshé

• Shamrock

• Silent Sanctuary

• Mayonnaise

• Chocolate Factory

• Siakol

• Missing Felimon

• Jayson In Town

• The Farmer

• Kuerdas

• Tropa Vibes

Their stage presence and authenticity have made them crowd favorites at regional music festivals and Battle of the Bands events across Mindanao. Yet, despite these milestones, the band remains grounded and focused on telling stories through music.

The Sound of Real Stories

Their genre blends Pop Rock with classic Original Pilipino Music (OPM), but what sets them apart is their lyrical honesty. Their debut single, “The Unloved Song,” was inspired by a close friend’s heartbreak narrating the emotional fallout of love lost.

“Kung naa’y love song, dapat naa pud 'Unloved Song,’” they said. “Not every story ends with forever, and that’s okay. We write for those who need to feel heard.”

The band plans to release more original tracks that reflect the highs and lows of youth, love, and life in the provinces songs that are both relatable and real.

Supporting Local, Dreaming Big

In an industry that often prioritizes instant fame and viral moments, Fluminus is a refreshing example of what it means to grow slowly, silently, but with purpose. The band credits their steady rise to their shared discipline, the support of their local community, and the people who continue to believe in them.

As their fanbase grows, so does their drive to continue representing Mindanao’s music scene with pride.

Philippine People's Press | In Truth We Prevail