Ely Buendia

Updated: December 19, 2025

Name: Ely Buendia
Date of Birth: November 2, 1970 (age 55 years)
Origin: Naga, Camarines Sur, Philippines
Ethnicity: Filipino
Nationality: Filipino
Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Record Producer, Film Director
Genres: Alternative Rock, Pop, Experimental, Soul
Marital Status: Married
Wife: Vicky Cayago (1st wife); Maria Diane Ventura (2nd wife)
Net Worth: $1 – 2 million (estimated)
Parents: Ely Revilla Buendia and Lisetta Ruiz Basiño
Siblings: Lally Buendia (sister)
Children: Eon Drake (son), Una Aurea (daughter)

Biography & Career:
Ely Buendia is a Filipino singer, songwriter, and musician best known as the frontman and creative force of the legendary band Eraserheads. Born in Naga, Camarines Sur, he became one of the most influential figures in the country’s music scene. The group, formed while he studied at the University of the Philippines, quickly rose to fame and reshaped the landscape of Filipino rock with their distinct sound and clever lyrics.

After the Eraserheads era, Buendia explored new musical directions through bands like The Mongols and Pupil, as well as solo projects. Over time, he composed numerous songs that blended rock, pop, and soul, marked by poetic storytelling and social insight. Known for versatility, Buendia not only sings but also plays guitar, keyboards, and occasionally performs as a drummer during recordings and live shows.

Each Ely Buendia concert draws a devoted crowd that celebrates his impact on Original Pilipino Music. Whether performing solo or reuniting with his bandmates, Buendia brings depth, emotion, and timeless energy to every stage. Beyond performing, he runs an independent label, Offshore Music, nurturing emerging Filipino artists and keeping the spirit of creativity alive.

In his personal life, the wife of Ely Buendia is filmmaker Maria Diane Ventura, with whom he has collaborated on several artistic projects. He was previously married to Vicky Cayago. His children include son Eon Drake and daughter Una Aurea, both of whom inspire many of his songs. Buendia’s siblings include sister Lally Buendia, who shares his passion for the arts, while his mother, Lisetta Ruiz Basiño, played a major role in shaping his early love for music.

Though details of net worth remain private, decades of success as a performer, writer, and producer have secured him a lasting place in Philippine music history.

Ely Buendia Albums:
Wanted: Bedspacer (2000)
Method Adaptor (2024)

Ely Buendia Best Songs:
Ang Huling El Bimbo
With a Smile
Ligaya
Pare Ko
Alapaap
Minsan
Torpedo
Superproxy
Magasin
Spoliarium