Draft:Diego Castillo (Musician)

Diego Castillo
Born (1975-03-01) 1 March 1975 (age 50)
Manila, Philippines
GenresAlternative rock, indie rock
Occupation(s)Musician, DJ, music producer, podcaster, screenwriter
Years active1998–present

Diego Castillo is a Filipino musician, DJ, music producer, screenwriter, and podcaster. He is best known as the guitarist and co-founder of the alternative rock band Sandwich. He is also recognized for his work in broadcasting, record label management, and film. Castillo is the host of the cult-favorite podcast Foaming at the Mouth.

Early life and education

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Castillo was born on March 1 in Manila, Philippines. He is the son of Erwin E. Castillo, a celebrated Filipino writer and fictionist, and Nita Claravall, an advertising executive and banking professional.

He attended San Beda College, where he completed both high school and college.

Career

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Music

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Sandwich

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In 1998, Castillo co-founded the alternative rock band Sandwich with Raimund Marasigan. Originally intended as a side project, the band went on to become one of the most influential alternative rock acts in the Philippines. Their debut album, Grip Stand Throw (1999), included the hit single "Butterfly Carnival". Sandwich’s later works, such as Five on the Floor (2006) and Fat Salt & Flame (2013), received both critical and commercial success.

The Diegos and DJ work

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Castillo is also known as one half of the DJ duo The Diegos, along with Diego Mapa. Their sets, which fuse rare cuts and underground sounds, have made them key figures in Manila’s independent music scene.

The Aga Muhlach Experience

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Together with Myrene Academia, Toti Dalmacion, Mario Alipio, and Lexi Zuleta, Castillo co-founded the experimental band The Aga Muhlach Experience, noted for its cult status in local indie circles.

Television, Radio, and Music Industry Work

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After college, Castillo worked at MTV Philippines as a scriptwriter for shows such as MTV News and Para Boss, the latter of which was hosted by Francis Magalona. He later joined BMG Records (Philippines), where he worked with artists like The Eraserheads, Rivermaya, Francis M, and Lea Salonga, eventually serving as International Label Manager.

He also co-hosted NOT RADIO on NU107 alongside Myrene Academia, further cementing his presence in the Philippine alternative scene.

Podcasting

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In 2013, Castillo launched Foaming at the Mouth, a podcast blending obscure music selections, personal reflections, and commentary. Known for its lo-fi and underground aesthetic, the podcast was revived after a hiatus and continues to build a loyal following.

Film and Television

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In 2011, Castillo co-wrote the indie film Rakenrol with director Quark Henares. A fictional narrative set in Manila’s underground rock scene, the film gained cult recognition. He also co-created the 2008 television series Rakista, which aired on TV5 and revolved around young musicians navigating band life.

Personal life

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Castillo is married to Nikki Veron Cruz-Castillo, an award-winning television host and content creator. She is best known for co-hosting the lifestyle show Convergence on Net 25, for which she received a PMPC Star Award for Best Lifestyle Show Host in 2014.

The couple has one son, Elvis.

Discography

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With Sandwich

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  • Grip Stand Throw (1999)
  • 4-Track Mind (2001)
  • Thanks to the Moon's Gravitational Pull (2003)
  • Five on the Floor (2006)
  • Marks the Spot (2008)
  • Contra Tiempo (2010)
  • Fat Salt & Flame (2013)
  • Debris (2015)
  • #UnderTheGlow (2017)

Filmography

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  • Keka (2003) – Composer
  • Rakista (2008) – Co-creator
  • Rakenrol (2011) – Co-writer

References

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