Last year, Merriam-Webster crowned “AI slop” as its Word of the Year, widely chosen because of the flood of content churned out by generative artificial intelligence. AI in itself is just a tool. It’s efficient and it can even be brilliant. But like any tool, its misuse can dilute the creativity it claims to celebrate. And for the impressionable, it’s easier now to get lost and forget that real artists who take risks and pour themselves into their craft still exist.
Hence, we’re shifting our focus back to where it all started: human hands. If authenticity is a currency that doesn’t depreciate, then these young talents are certainly defining the Philippine creative scene in 2026.
Alithea Castillo & Kim Tin
Director and photographer
RELATED: Creatives Alithea Castillo and Kim Tin Tell The Story Behind Of Becoming Us
Director-photographer duo Alithea Castillo and Kim Tin are a creative powerhouse who unapologetically translate their lived experiences as a queer couple into their vivid visual language. Intimacy and identity are celebrated with a cinematic edge in their collaborative work.
Kim Cruz
Artist, instructor, and curator
She’s quite the recognizable face as a TV host and digital creator, but Kim Cruz, at her core, is a dedicated painter who has consistently leveraged her presence in major auctions to champion and benefit the local artist community.
Kim Tan Sangil
Fashion designer
A standout graduate of SoFA Design Institute, Kim Tan Sangil is already carving a niche for herself in the competitive world of fashion. With her signature style that balances contemporary boldness with meticulous craftsmanship, her sculptural designs have caught the eyes of many industry insiders.
Gigie Santiago
Tattoo artist and graphic designer
As the founder of Crimson River Tattoo, graphic designer turned tattoo artist Gigie Santiago—better known as Gigie Bear—has cultivated a safe, inclusive space by way of her all-female studio. Her background in design is evident in her linework, but it’s her commitment to a more approachable shop culture that truly sets her apart.
Maronne Cruz
Voice artist, singer, actor, and content creator
Established as the singing voice of Zoey in K-pop Demon Hunters, Maronne Cruz is a multi-hyphenate whose talents span acting and digital storytelling. A scroll through her TikTok reveals her thoughtful eloquence that makes her one of the most refreshing and intelligent voices in the local creator space.
Jasmin Lao
Professional makeup artist
If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Jasmin Lao’s artistry was a highlight of MEGA’s Coremaxxing issue. An internationally certified makeup virtuoso, Lao treats the face as her canvas, yet remains grounded by refusing to gatekeep her techniques and beauty hacks.
Nina Nicole
Beauty, lifestyle, and book content creator
In the fast-paced world of BookTok (book Tiktok), Nina Nicole is a much-needed breath of fresh air. An underrated gem among literary creators, her calm presence and soothing cadence have made her a big sister figure for the “thought-daughter” community. Insightful critiques and lifestyle advice that feel like a cozy conversation are to be expected.
Photos: MEGA ARCHIVES, KIM CRUZ (via Instagram), KIM TAN SANGIL (via Instagram), MARONNE CRUZ (via Instagram), JASMIN LAO (via Instagram) and NINA NICOLE (via Instagram)
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