Mc Richard Paglicawan
Rising P-Pop boy group WRIVE takes center stage in the latest digital cover feature of LionhearTV’s RAWRMag, offering fans an intimate look into the years of sacrifice, uncertainty, and relentless training behind the group’s journey.
Composed of Asi, Ishiro, Russu, Drei, and Mathew, WRIVE is steadily making its presence felt in the P-Pop scene through its distinct musical identity, self-produced artistry, and do-it-yourself approach.
In a candid three-part interview, the members opened up about their transformation from Dream Maker hopefuls into a united group under ABS-CBN’s Polaris and Star Magic.
Inspired by the declaration “We have arrived,” the name WRIVE represents more than reaching a destination. It embodies the group’s commitment to constantly pursue new goals, greater milestones, and better versions of themselves.
“Yung goal po namin is to always arrive at a new goal, a new milestone,” Russu explained. “We want to arrive at a better version of ourselves lagi.”
The sacrifices behind WRIVE
The RAWRMag feature reveals the deeply personal sacrifices the members made for their collective dream.
Mathew placed his college education on hold two years before graduation to devote his time and attention to the group. Drei gave up an opportunity to compete internationally with his former dance crew to prioritize WRIVE’s pre-debut training.
Meanwhile, Russu confronted insecurities surrounding his past and worked harder to prove his growth. Ishiro challenged himself to overcome his introverted nature and face the pressure of performing before an audience, while Asi battled moments of self-doubt as he adjusted from being a soloist to becoming part of a performance-driven group.
Their most difficult period came when they spent months waiting for an update about their future. The members rarely silenced their phones, afraid they might miss a crucial Viber notification from management.
Despite having no guarantees, they continued rehearsing and improving their performances.
“Kahit walang taong nakatingin sa amin, gagawin namin siya kasi kami yung nangangarap, eh,” Russu shared.
Training even without the spotlight
Before their official debut, WRIVE did not always have access to coaches or a dedicated rehearsal space. The members rented studios using their own resources, filmed their own dance practices, and pushed one another through physically and mentally demanding training.
One of their most remarkable techniques involved rehearsing their choreography while blindfolded. The exercise helped them develop spatial awareness, memorize their positions, and understand their distance from one another onstage.
Although the training initially resulted in dizziness, disorientation, and minor injuries, the members persevered until every movement became instinctive.
“Kahit hindi naka-blindfold, mas master na namin kung gaano kami kalayo sa isa’t isa,” Drei said.
Five individual strengths, one identity
The feature also introduces the distinct “arsenal” each member contributes to WRIVE.
Drei brings years of experience as a dancer who previously performed behind P-Pop acts such as BINI and BGYO. Asi contributes his vocal ability and leadership experience as a former soloist, while Ishiro combines his acting background with his passion for music and performance.
Mathew brings a reserved yet affectionate personality alongside his vocals, while Russu contributes his lifelong passion for performing and his strength as the group’s main rapper.
Together, the members draw inspiration from pop, rock, K-Pop, and other genres while actively participating in writing, arranging, and developing their music.
Their creative chemistry is strengthened by a culture of openness. Whenever disagreements or misunderstandings arise, the members hold honest conversations and open forums to resolve their concerns.
For WRIVE, success depends not only on talent but also on sensitivity, consideration, and the willingness to set pride aside for the good of the group.
WRIVE has arrived
With appearances at the ABS-CBN Ball 2025 and performances on ASAP Natin ’To, WRIVE continues to introduce its music and artistry to a broader audience.
Songs such as “Hollywood” and “Color Clash” showcase a group that has moved beyond its years of waiting and uncertainty. WRIVE is now stepping confidently into the spotlight as a self-produced P-Pop powerhouse determined to build a lasting place in the industry.
The complete feature, “WRIVE: The P-Pop Powerhouse That Has Arrived,” is now available on LionhearTV’s RAWRMag.
Fans can also watch the three-part RAWRMag interview to discover more about the members’ creative process, brotherhood, personal struggles, unusual training methods, and dreams for WRIVE.
WRIVE has arrived—and they are here to stay.
