The Itchyworms' lead guitarist is moving to Canada.

In a Facebook post published on 26 August, Chino Singson announced on The Itchyworms' Facebook page that he will be leaving the Philippines at the end of the month together with his family.

However, he emphasized on the same Facebook post that he will not be leaving the 'Di Na Muli' act.

"To be clear, I'm not leaving the band as a member. "Change venue" lang kumbaga." He writes. "I'll still be working with the team, helping out with social media and back office tasks.

"And like we did in 2020, we will make music even though we aren't together physically. Who knows? You might still see me in gigs outside the Philippines."

Singson also took the opportunity to welcome Mikey Amistoso (Ciudad) and Weckl Mercado, the two new members of the band who will be stepping in to perform with the rest of The Itchyworms.

Primarily self-taught, Singson is an accomplished guitarist, made popular by the fact that he is a lefty. During the pandemic, he started giving guitar lessons over Zoom.

With more than two decades of making and performing music, The Itchyworms comprises Singson, Jugs Jugueta (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, percussion, keyboards), Jazz Nicolas (lead vocals, drums, piano, keyboards, keytar), and Kelvin Yu (bass guitar, backing vocals). Over the years, they have produced numerous fan favorites, including 'Beer' and 'Akin Ka Na Lang.' 

In 2019, they collaborated with Ely Buendia for a couple of singles and a back-to-back concert. Earlier in May this year, their short film The Life I Know was shown at the 38th Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival. This film was the visual accompaniment of their 2021 album and carrier single, 'Waiting For The End To Start.'

"Is it difficult to part ways with something that has given and taught me so much over twenty-five years? Totally. Completely. Absolutely." Singson revealed in the same post. "Jazz, Jugs, Kelvin and Julie are my family. Our band is eternal.

"This is not 'goodbye,' this is 'see you later'."

Singson ended his statement on social media with a message for his and the band's fans: "Keep The Itchyworms in your hearts, minds, and ears. The best is yet to come."

(UPDATE 01/09): Singson's trip has been delayed, giving him and the rest of The Itchyworms time to perform together one more time. One Last Time with Chino (Bago Siya Kunin Ng Canada) is happening on 8 September 2022 at 123 Block. Tickets are available at PHP 500.

Watch 'Di Na Muli' here: