Jopay of the SexBomb Dancers: The Icon Behind the Spaghetti Dance and the Song That Immortalized Her

“Spaghetti pababa, pababa ng pababa… Spaghetti pataas, pataas ng pataas!”
Before TikTok trends and viral dance crazes, there was SexBomb, the Philippines’ iconic all-female dance group that lit up stages, wowed audiences, and captured the hearts of millions. At the forefront of their fame was Jopay Paguia Zamora, whose name not only defined a generation of pop culture but later became the title of a hit song that continues to resonate with fans old and new.

From Backup Dancers to National Phenomenon

The SexBomb Dancers first rose to popularity as background performers on the noontime variety show Eat Bulaga! Led by manager Joy Cancio, the group began as mere stage fillers but quickly proved they had star power of their own. Their synchronized, energetic dance moves, paired with catchy tunes and undeniable charisma, pushed them into the spotlight.

From Spaghetti Song to Bakit Papa, SexBomb became a national sensation. Their dance steps were mimicked in school programs, birthday parties, and even television commercials. Girls admired them; boys adored them. They weren’t just dancers—they were icons.

Soon, SexBomb had albums, films, and even their own afternoon drama series, Daisy Siete, which ran for seven years. But as with many groups, time took its toll. Members began to explore their own paths—some started businesses, others got married, a few moved abroad. With only a handful of original members left, the group eventually disbanded. Attempts to revive it with new faces never quite recaptured the magic of the original lineup.

The Standout Star: Jopay Paguia Zamora

Among the group, Jopay stood out—not only for her beauty and signature dance moves but for her stage presence and versatility. Born January 3, 1983, in Manila, Jopay had long dreamed of being a performer. Her dream materialized through SexBomb, where she became one of the lead dancers and singers. Over time, she also ventured into acting and became a familiar face in films and television.

But as SexBomb faded from the limelight, so did Jopay’s regular appearances on TV. Fans began to wonder: where did Jopay go?

Love, Loss, and a Second Chance

Jopay’s love life also caught the public’s interest, particularly her relationship with Joshua Zamora, a former member of the dance group The Manoeuvres. Their love story had its ups and downs. Though Joshua had once proposed, the wedding never happened—at first.

According to Jopay, in her upbringing, a proposal was expected to be followed by marriage within a year. Joshua, however, was hesitant due to his own personal struggles and past experiences. Their relationship ended.

Years later, Joshua realized he wasn’t ready to lose her. He pursued her once more, and this time, things were different. The couple eventually got married and now have two children. Though they once suffered a miscarriage—a painful moment Jopay openly shared—they now enjoy a happy family life together.

Today, both Jopay and Joshua remain active online. They produce content together and continue to connect with their fans through social media, proving that while their time on center stage may have passed, their connection with the public endures.

The Song “Jopay”: A Tribute That Lives On

One of the most enduring parts of Jopay’s legacy is the 2004 song “Jopay” by the OPM band Mayonnaise. The track, still a crowd favorite at rock gigs and karaoke nights, was inspired directly by Jopay herself.

Monty Macalino, lead singer and songwriter of Mayonnaise, shared that he was inspired to write the song after seeing Jopay crying during a Lenten special on Eat Bulaga! The image of the dancer—once known only for her bubbly persona—showing vulnerability on screen struck him. Add to that her uniquely Filipino name, and Monty knew he had a song.

After writing the song, Monty personally delivered a demo tape to Jopay outside the Eat Bulaga! studio. At the time, they had not yet met in person.

The song was not released until two years later, but when it hit the airwaves, it immediately resonated with listeners. Monty believes the track’s popularity lies in its simplicity, relatability, and the raw sincerity of its emotion.

The Missing Face in the Music Video

Despite being the song’s muse, Jopay was noticeably absent from the official music video of “Jopay.” When asked why, she explained that Monty had reached out to her then-manager, but was told that the group was too busy at the time to participate. Instead, the video featured only the silhouette of a dancing woman—a subtle tribute.

Years later, Jopay heard the song for the first time while in a taxi in Japan, stunned and flattered. Eventually, she and Monty met face-to-face, and the two shared laughs over the song’s origins and its ongoing popularity.

Where Is Jopay Now?

Today, Jopay Paguia Zamora lives a quieter life, but still remains connected to the entertainment world. She makes occasional TV appearances, manages her family life, and collaborates with her husband on online content. Her name, however, continues to live on—through music, nostalgia, and her lasting impact on Philippine pop culture.

Jopay represents more than just a dancer from a bygone era. She is a symbol of youth, resilience, and transformation. Her story is a reminder that fame may fade, but the mark we leave on others can last a lifetime.

“Hindi ko akalain na may kanta tungkol sa pangalan ko. Pero habang tumatagal, naiintindihan ko—minsan, kahit simpleng ngiti mo, may naaapektuhan ka.”
— Jopay Paguia Zamora