Route 196, home to live OPM in Katipunan, shuts down

The popular Quezon City bar and live music venue Route 196 bid farewell to its music-loving patrons yesterday, Aug. 23.

It shared an animated video last night of its iconic signage going dark on Twitter.

“Alas, we’re at the end of the road for Route 196,” it said.

Located along Katipunan Avenue, Route 196 was known for being home to the country’s thriving music scene. It played host to anyone who shared a love for live music, from fresh college bands to established names in the industry.

Itchyworms members Jugs Jugueta and Kelvin Yu are among the co-owners of the bar who have been running it since 2013.

Yu took to Twitter today to thank all those involved in keeping Route alive.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the responses we’ve been getting since the announcement, and we’re just happy to have made somewhat of a mark in the local music scene by providing a venue where everyone can share and experience music,” he said.

“We played in @route196rocks even before it was called Route196,” Jugueta said on Instagram today, describing it as his “passion project” with Yu.

As a remembrance to gig-goers, the bar is selling shirts designed by artist Rob Cham, with proceeds going to the venue’s employees. JB

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