Jhasmine Espinas Villanueva (born August 3, 2001), professionally known as dwta, is a Filipino singer and songwriter born and raised in Albay, Bicol Region. She is known for her tracks "Padaba Taka" and "Santigwar".
She is known for incorporating her mother tongue, Bikol, in her songs.
Early life and education
Jhasmine Espinas Villanueva was born and raised in the Bicol Region, hailing specifically from Tiwi, Albay. Before delving in songwriting, Villanueva was involved in other forms of art like dancing and never expected to pursue music until senior high school year when she was invited to join a songwriting workshop after jamming with friends at an event.
Villanueva initially wrote songs in Filipino before finding more comfort to making songs in her native language Bikol after joining a Bikol-language songwriting competition.
She attended the Meridian International Business, Arts and Technology College (MINT College) pursuing a degree in music business management.
^ a b c Gabuco, Khim Anne (October 3, 2023). "Of Melodies, Stars And Enchantment: Dwta – Bicol's Musical Muse". Dateline Ibalon. Retrieved January 30, 2025.
^ a b
Olaguera, Chriselle (April 29, 2024). "OPM singer dwta recalls moments she almost gave up on her music career". PEP.ph (in Filipino). Philippine Entertainment Portal, Inc. Retrieved October 22, 2025.
