Roa became a member of
Ex Battalion in 2016 under his name "JRoa", serving as the group's main vocalist during the time it rose to mainstream popularity with hits like "Hayaan Mo Sila" (). While with the collective, he focused on learning
hip-hop and
R&B techniques to match the group's style. On December 8, 2017, Roa performed the
This is Home concert at The Stage in
Elizabeth Mall, Cebu City. He include "Byahe" () from his self-titled debut album, released the previous year with 10 original tracks and three bonus songs, as well as "Di Ako Fuckboy" (), which he had recorded earlier that year with Emcee Rhenn and Agsunta. In the same year, he told the members that he wanted to leave and officially departed later that year to pursue his own musical direction. He emphasized that the split was "friendly" and that he maintained a good relationship with the group after leaving. After leaving Ex Battalion, Roa focused on his solo career and released the song "Oks Lang" (), which reflected his personal experiences. He signed with
Viva Artists Agency and
Viva Records. In 2019, Roa released his debut extended play (EP)
Amgo, a five-track record. The title comes from the
Cebuano word for "realization". In 2020, four years after leaving the group, Roa returned to Ex Battalion with the song "Woah". In 2022, the group released a new music video for "We The Best" which featured his participation. The upbeat track features
Skusta Clee, Brando, Emcee Rhenn,
King Badger, and
Flow G. Alongside his solo work, Roa has worked with other artists. In 2022, he released the single "Infinity" with singer-songwriter
Quest, which they co-wrote. He also teamed up with Frizzle Anne for the pop-R&B song "Akin Ka Lang" (), released through
O/C Records. In 2023, Roa co-wrote and was featured on
Sarah Geronimo's song "Alam" (), one of his most prominent collaborations as a songwriter and performer. ==Personal life==