From Radio waves to Festival stages: A Filipino-Australian voice shines at SBS PopAsia and Vivid Sydney

Jamie Ilagan shared that although his parents were not musically inclined, his family fully supported him and his siblings in learning piano, a journey that eventually led him to become known as DJ “Dr. J” on SBS PopAsia and at Vivid Sydney.

---

Key Points

• Jamie Ilagan was born in Australia and currently works at SBS Australia as an AI Content Project Specialist and ALC Digital Content and Production Trainer.
• Since 2012, he has been known as DJ “Dr. J” on SBS PopAsia and has been invited for four consecutive years to perform at Vivid Sydney.
• Vivid Sydney is an annual festival in Sydney featuring colourful lights, music, and art, attracting visitors from around the world, with iconic displays at the Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbour.
• As a trainer, he encourages young Filipinos to stay open to learning, ask questions, take on new challenges without fear, and embrace feedback for growth.
• He credits his achievements to the Filipino values instilled by his parents, which became the foundation of his journey and success in life.

With the support of his parents, Jamie Ilagan learned to play the piano at a young age, paving the way for him to become better known today as Dr. J on SBS PopAsia and at Vivid Sydney. Source: Supplied

Jamie Ilagan credits his parents’ unwavering support for nurturing their siblings’ love for music. Growing up in Quakers Hill within Blacktown City Council, he said being surrounded by a strong Filipino community made his childhood both happy and inspiring. Source: Supplied

After falling in love with music, Jamie Ilagan discovered his talent as a DJ and began hosting parties, with his first event being his father’s 60th birthday, marking the start of his journey in music and entertainment.

Jamie Ilagan with SBS Filipino Producer Annalyn Violata during the celebration of SBS 50, marking a milestone of storytelling, culture, and community connection that continues to inspire diverse communities in Australia. Source: Supplied

Jamie Ilagan on duty, training SBS Dinka producer Kotnyin, sharing skills and experience behind the scenes. Source: Supplied

📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.