PHILIPPINES — Who would have thought that the simple act of tapping a rubber tree would become the signature dance move of a viral sensation who is now conquering the world stage? Elias Lintukan Jr., or better known as Elias JTV , is a phenomenon who proves that talent, authenticity , and unique style have their price in gold. The reggae artist from Magpet, North Cotabato, has not only changed lives; he has also changed the standard of talent fees for live bands in the Philippines, where gig fees have reached a staggering Php450,000!

Elias JTV’s story is a classic rags-to-riches story with a unique reggae beat . From his humble origins, where his daily routine as a child was to tap a rubber tree before going to school, Elias graduated with a BS Criminology degree. But his destiny was destined for music, specifically reggae , where he rose to fame and brought a message of hope and cultural pride . His mother is an OFW, while his father works in a rubber tree plantation , a background that has given him a deep connection with his fans, especially OFWs. In his personal life, Elias already has a child and a civil partner , showing that behind his fame is a strong family.

The Rise From ‘Uhahay’ and Rubber Tapping

Elias’ rise to fame began with his reggae cover of the popular Bolivia’s Rhythm . But what brought him to viral status and revolutionized his career was his unique dance he called “buwelang sayaw,” which he says came from his experience with rubber tapping . The combination of his unique singing style, his signature expression “uhahay,” and his entertaining dance became an instant hit . He quickly gained millions of followers on social media, proving that the masses were thirsty for an artist with authenticity and cultural depth .

Elias JTV’s impact is felt most strongly among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), who see his music as a message of cultural pride and hope. His music has become a soundtrack of hope, proving that hope and success can come from even the simplest of sources. The demand for his live band performances has reached an all-time high, with his schedule here in the Philippines almost fully booked . This popularity has led to a major leap in his career: the upcoming US tour . The tour will kick off in Hawaii and continue to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Redwood City, San Diego, and Houston, with his band led by manager Beverly Pumikpik. This international recognition shows that the cultural pride he carries is universal .

The Explosion of Talent Fees: From Thousands to Hundreds

Elias JTV’s success and popularity have come with a change in his talent fee , an issue that has long been discussed in showbiz . The big change in price occurred after the band changed management , from the former Kalumad Band to Elias JTV Band, under the supervision of Manager Beverly Labadlabad.

The adjustment in rates has been drastic :

Dating Rate (under Kalumad Band): Php75,000 to Php85,000 for Mindanao engagements .

New Rate (under Elias JTV Band):

Mindanao: Php200,000

Visayas: Php300,000

Luzon: Php450,000

The price increase, which will be almost five times higher in Mindanao and now costs half a million in Luzon, has caused mixed reactions from the public and the industry. This price proves that his brand is already very high. It is important to note, however, that the price is not Elias’s alone . They have band members and a manager . Although the division is not clear, it is expected that a larger percentage of the revenue will go to Elias as the frontman and main attraction . The final decision on the division still depends on the manager .

The Industry Question: Is It Worth It ?

The shocking increase in Elias JTV’s talent fee has raised an important question in the entertainment industry : “Is it worth it?” Some suggest that it would be better to hire popular OPM bands instead of paying Elias JTV so much. This comparison shows a tension between established and viral-driven success .

But Elias’ supporters have a strong defense. The price is not just paid for his singing; it’s for the total package —the unique performance , the viral appeal , the personal brand , and the guaranteed crowd he brings. Elias’ JTV phenomenon offers an experience that other OPM bands can’t provide . He brings a new flavor and vibe that the masses love , as evidenced by his fully booked schedule and international tour . The price is a reflection of demand , and in the eyes of promoters who are willing to pay, his price is worth it .

Elias JTV’s story is a great inspiration for aspiring artists , especially those from the provinces. He has shown that humble origins are no barrier to global success . By being authentic to his roots —from rubber tapping to cultural pride —he has overcome the traditional gatekeepers of showbiz and built his own empire.

As his upcoming US Tour gets underway , Elias JTV’s impact continues to grow. He’s no longer a simple reggae cover artist ; he’s a cultural icon bringing Filipino pride to the global stage . Regardless of the reaction to his talent fee , one thing is for sure: Elias JTV has succeeded in achieving a dream that is now worth hundreds of thousands of pesos per gig , proving that authentic talent has an unbeatable price. Ultimately, his price increase isn’t just about money; it’s about respect and recognition for the talent of someone who hails from Cotabato and is now ruling the reggae scene worldwide.