Entertainment

The Singapore-based Filipino singer-songwriter embraces his heritage in a deeply personal Tagalog release that explores love, loss, and closure

Following the breakthrough of his chart-topping hit, “ikaw ikaw ikaw,” which has amassed more than 30 million streams on Spotify alone and introduced him to a rapidly growing Filipino audience, Singapore-based singer-songwriter and producer ICEBOX returns to his OPM roots with the release of his new single “SAAKIN”—out today via PARKA.

Embracing the language and emotional depth that have long been central to his identity as a Filipino growing up overseas, “SAAKIN” reflects his evolving commitment to reconnect with his heritage through music.

Lyrically, the song serves as an intimate portrait of the emotional limbo that clings to one after the end of a relationship. Rather than presenting heartbreak as a singular moment, the track lingers in the liminal space between abandonment and longing: a place where one person has already let go while the other remains haunted by memories, unanswered questions, and the hope that refuses to disappear. In summary, the song captures the exhausting cycle of searching for closure in a place that no longer feels like home.

Although much of the song’s lyrical foundation was written nearly three years ago, “SAAKIN” underwent an extensive creative transformation before reaching its final form. Initially conceived as a school project collaboration with longtime friend Julia, the song has evolved through countless demos before ICEBOX revisited it alongside producers Dominic and Timothy of PARKA.

[ADVANCE PREVIEW OF “SAAKIN”]

ICEBOX also credited the success of “ikaw, ikaw, ikaw,” his crossover collaboration with Filipino singer-songwriter Eliza Maturan, as an inspiration in shaping the final sound of his latest track.

“That song has obviously been such a monumental part of the catalysis of my music career,” ICEBOX admits. “I never really expected those three-hour writing and production sessions with Eliza amounted to such a hit, unlocking the doors to the Filipino market for me and exposing my art to a familiar yet new audience. Being able to garner and meet so many new fans both online and in person through my performances is one of the best privileges I’ve been able to experience after releasing ikaw, ikaw, ikaw, and it has definitely influenced how I produce and write my new songs (both in English & Tagalog) to fit the so-called ‘sound’ my new audience knows me for.”

After spending countless months listening to and consuming OPM, ICEBOX, along with his co-producers Dominic and Timothy, revisited “SAAKIN,” and the rest, as they say, is history. “I knew “SAAKIN” had to be more than just a school project demo. Not to mention, I was also planning to put it in my upcoming album, which included me really exploring new soundscapes and songwriting styles that were very different from the demo. What came out of those sessions is a track that carries the story and core of an OPM song but is fused with production techniques and textures that are derived from the sounds of my upcoming album.”

While “SAAKIN” serves as a personal statement on its own, it also offers listeners an early preview of ICEBOX’s forthcoming second studio album, which is scheduled for release sometime in September this year. Developed over the past year and a half, the 12-track project promises to further expand his musical identity through new sonic textures and a more intimate style of storytelling.

ICEBOX adds, “Lots of hard work, soul, and passion have been poured into this project, and we’re looking to do more shows in the Philippines for the album as well, and I sure hope nobody misses it because these coming songs are more than just earworms—they’re stories that you might resonate with one way or another, and I wouldn’t want to miss seeing them live.”

ICEBOX”s “SAAKIN” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via PARKA.

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Blending sharp lyricism, fearless energy, and a dream collaboration with Rjay Ty, the new single shows an artist reaching for even greater heights

Following the success of his breakout album, BACKSHOTS, Filipino rapper WAIIAN kicks off a new chapter in his career with the release of  “2RARE,”  a collaboration with fellow hip-hop artist Rjay Ty. The track serves as the lead single from his upcoming album, set to arrive later this year, signaling the return of one of the country’s most influential young rappers with renewed confidence and a clear vision for what’s ahead.

Driven by hard-hitting production and incisive lyricism, “2RARE” highlights WAIIAN’s artistic growth and evolving ambitions. More than simply marking his return, the single reflects his determination to keep raising the bar. Once recognized as a promising talent, WAIIAN now steps fully into the spotlight, ready to expand his reach, embrace new challenges, and continue elevating Philippine hip-hop.

“I chose ‘2RARE’ because it’s one of the loudest songs on the project, and I felt like it had been a while since I put out a straight-up rap track,” says the urban hitmaker. “It represents a side of me that fans have been waiting to hear again. At the same time, it gives a glimpse of what’s coming with the new album—the energy and the direction I’m taking in this next chapter.”

The release also fulfills a collaboration that fans have been hoping for since the start of his career. Although WAIIAN and Rjay Ty had shared several writing sessions over time, the opportunity to create a record that truly reflected both artists only arrived when the timing—and the chemistry—finally aligned. Rather than simply exchanging verses, the pair painstakingly crafted every element of the song alongside producers from Kashira, helming its structure, dynamics, and overall energy into a record that feels both effortless and intentional.

WAIIAN explains, “I’ve wanted to collaborate with Rjay for a long time, but I never really felt ‘ready.’ Maybe because of the expectations, or maybe because it’s a little intimidating working with someone you’ve looked up to for so long. Now that I have the new studio, I was running out of excuses not to finally make it happen. We put a lot of thought into the entire song, not just laying down our verses and calling it a day. Every decision was made with one goal in mind: to make a song we’d all love to listen to ourselves. We figured if we loved it first, there’s a good chance the listeners would feel the same.”

Sonically speaking, “2RARE” emerged through experimentation rather than imitation. Created without relying on specific musical references, the track evolved organically as WAIIAN, Rjay Ty, and the Kashira production team pushed one another creatively, refining ideas until they landed a jab that felt unmistakably their own. The willingness to explore and experiment mirrors the artistic direction of the forthcoming album, which promises to venture across limitless sonic landscapes while remaining grounded in WAIIAN’s lyrical craft.

WAIIAN shared that he hopes listeners will embrace their individuality and recognize that there’s value in being different—whether in the way they think, create, or express themselves. He said his goal is for the project to inspire people to celebrate what makes them unique instead of feeling pressured to conform. Through every song he creates, he aims to encourage self-confidence and authentic self-expression. If listeners come away from “2RARE” and the upcoming album feeling more secure in their identity and empowered to be themselves without fear of judgment, he considers that a success.

“2RARE” by WAIIAN and Rjay Ty is now available for streaming on major digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment.

The five-track EP delves into grief, rage, and finding your way back to yourself

PHOTOS / Credit: Titus Madrideo

bloo!, the recording project of Singapore-based Filipino artist Thea Madrideo, has released her debut EP “in moments of stillness” on all major streaming platforms worldwide.

“in moments of stillness” is a five-track collection written entirely by Madrideo over two years in the quiet, disorienting aftermath of a life that changed overnight and in the slow, uneven work of returning to herself. The EP does not perform healing. It documents the act, honestly and in the order it actually happened.

Deeply entrenched in singer-songwriter intimacy and pop rock energy, bloo!’s sound carries the emotional directness of early 2000s lyricism, drawing from artists like Kitchie Nadal, Alanis Morissette, and Michelle Branch. Her lyrics move between English and Filipino, reflecting the natural texture of how she thinks and feels.

The five tracks move through a complete emotional arc. “soup” opens the EP in a state of sabaw, the Filipino slang for a mind running on autopilot, surviving but not processing, until the weight compounds and overflows. “back2me” is the anger that finally gets permission to exist: petty on the surface, cathartic underneath, ending in the realization that running back to yourself is more freeing than running back to the source of pain. “that’s why” is the record’s turning point: a vulnerable admission of self-blame and the courage it takes to finally place it somewhere real. “blue’s clues” is the reminder that healing is not linear, the song for the 3am moment when stillness creeps back in and you appeal to choose yourself again. “dramatic” closes the EP not with romance, but with gratitude, written for every friend and family member who stayed patient and didn’t think she was too much while she found her way back.

“They’re not perfect. Some of them are messy and petty and unresolved, in the way that real feelings tend to be. But they’re honest. And I think that’s the thing that matters most when you’re making music for the moments that are hard to name,” says Madrideo.

bloo! is named after the safe space where Madrideo wrote the EP’s first song and the ones that followed. The project is produced in collaboration with a close circle of Manila-based musicians and producers.

TRACKLIST

1.  soup
2.  back2me
3.  that’s why
4.  blue’s clues
5.  dramatic

Watch the music video here

Set to headline Lollapalooza Chicago

Global superstar JENNIE releases her ethereal new single and music video “Less than a Lover,” available now via ODDATELIER/Columbia Records.

The single is JENNIE’s ode to summer, capturing the excitement and lingering emotions of a relationship that exists somewhere between friendship and romance. Written by JENNIE, the song explores the space with someone who is more than a friend but “Less than a Lover,” JENNIE embraces the confusion and exhilaration of an undefined connection. Expanding her sonic palette with a softer alternative-pop sound, the track pairs lo-fi guitar textures and vintage electric keyboards, JENNIE’s vocals and lyricism, naturally expressing the subtle feelings that arise in a relationship that is neither friendship nor love. The accompanying music video, based on a story by JENNIE, sees her slip into another world, another character, another version of herself while shooting a short film with friends, where a faux love story shapes a new dynamic between them that was absent before.

JENNIE first teased “Less than a Lover” to a massive crowd during her historic headlining set at Governors Ball in June. Since then, she has dominated the festival stages at Mad Cool, Open’er and Roskilde. She will continue her summer festival run as a headliner at Lollapalooza in Chicago, before making her first-ever appearance at Summer Sonic Festival in Japan.

As one of the most influential global artists of her generation, JENNIE continues to redefine modern pop through her fearless artistry and creative vision. From record-breaking releases and sold-out performances to fashion partnerships, she has established herself as a singular force across music, fashion and culture, continuing to shape the entertainment landscape.

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Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines’ first and only world-class theme park, is bringing a month of enchantment to guests as it unveils a series of magical experiences and special treats inspired by its beloved Storyverse character, Eldar the Wizard, in celebration of his birthday this July.

As part of its Love Saribuhay campaign this quarter, EK is treating visitors to exciting activities and exclusive surprises both inside and beyond the Park, leading up to Eldar’s Birthday Bash on July 25 at the Spaceport Grounds. The much-awaited event, which also commemorates the Park’s soft opening more than three decades ago, will feature lively parades, captivating performances, interactive games, character appearances, giveaways, and other magical experiences for guests of all ages.

Eldar the Wizard has been the heart of EK’s vibrant Storyverse and has brought magic, wisdom, and inspiration to generations of Filipinos for the past three decades. He embodies EK’s core values and inspires everyone to embrace love of God, respect, loyalty, integrity, and innovation.

Ahead of his grand birthday celebration, the beloved wizard is currently extending the magic and fun of the festivities beyond the park through Eldar’s Birthday Bash Community Outreach Program. As part of this initiative, Eldar heads to selected foundations and orphanages in Laguna to share enchanting treats, special performances, and memorable experiences with the beneficiaries.

EK will launch its newest seasonal show featuring all of the Storyverse characters in a surprise dance party, as they give back to Eldar the magic and joy he has shared with the kingdom and the Filipino people over the years.

Guests can also savor his special food selections, including the family feast bundle of Eldar’s Meal exclusively offered at Amazon Grill and LaunchTime restaurants. Alternatively, everyone can try the meal’s chicken inasal, which is available for solo orders at Snaptooth Snack Station, Parkside, and Diggers Treat. Tropical Coolers’ standout drink, Eldar’s Purple Brew, will also remain available as a refreshing grab-and-go treat to enjoy while exploring the Park.

EK has also introduced its latest addition to its lineup of Eldar merchandise, adding everyday items such as pillows, purses, and bags in a variety of kinds and styles.

Meanwhile, the photo outlet in Rialto 4D and Eldar’s Photo Hub in Victoria Park have rolled out its new Face Recognition feature, allowing parkgoers to easily access all their photos in one place.

In-park tenant partners are also taking part in the festivities, with Dairy Queen becoming the first to announce its offerings, including the exclusive in-park Eldar’s Hat Dilly Bar and the Purple Yam Blizzard as the Blizzard of the Month.

As the ultimate gift for Eldar’s big day, EK is bringing back its regular park hours of 11AM to 8PM every Friday to Sunday until August 30, before shifting to Thursdays to Sundays starting September 1.

Guests can enjoy a magical Park visit from July 24 to 26 with Eldar’s Birthday Bundle, priced at just Php 1,400. The package includes one (1) Regular Day Pass, a selection of complimentary treats from participating in-park retail and dining outlets, and access to seasonal Park activities. Visitors who avail of the bundle for July 25 will also receive reserved seating for Eldar’s Birthday Bash. The promo is available for walk-in purchases and through the EK Online Store until July 26.

To learn more about Eldar’s Birthday Bash and Enchanted Kingdom’s latest events, promotions, and attractions, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph or follow its official social media pages: @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines on Instagram.

As “Dai Dai” becomes the No. 1 song in the world, Shakira reaches new career highs across streaming, charts, and live entertainment

Listen to “Dai Dai” HERE
Watch the official video HERE

Global superstar Shakira has reached another historic milestone as “Dai Dai,” her FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem featuring Burna Boy, climbs to No. 1 on the Spotify Global chart, becoming the No. 1 song in the world. The global smash has also reached No. 1 in 12 countries, including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Spain, Norway, the Netherlands, Slovakia, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Sweden, and Belgium.

The success of “Dai Dai” has propelled Shakira to new career highs. She has climbed to No. 6 among the world’s most-streamed artists on Spotify and has become the first artist in Spotify history to reach No. 1 with songs in both English and Spanish – another landmark achievement in her unparalleled career.

Shakira’s momentum continues across key music markets worldwide, with “Dai Dai” currently charting inside the Top 5 on the midweek charts in Portugal, Canada, China, Italy, and the United Kingdom.

Meanwhile, the official music video for “Dai Dai” continues to dominate on YouTube, holding the No. 1 position on the platform’s global music charts. The video has amassed nearly 500 million views, and is expected to continue dominating pop culture conversations in the coming months.

These latest achievements reaffirm Shakira’s status as one of the most influential artists of her generation, showcasing her extraordinary ability to connect with audiences across languages, cultures, and continents while continuing to redefine the global reach of Latin pop.

Building on the success of her record-breaking stadium tours in North and South America, Shakira is now preparing for an extraordinary run of 12 stadium shows at the Shakira Stadium this September and October. The highly anticipated concert tour is expected to be among the year’s biggest live music events.

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The Filipino band brings its acclaimed sophomore album, AFTER OURS to life in an ambitious orchestral production, ahead of its international debut at AXEAN Festival 2026 in Bali, Indonesia

Filipino city pop band ALYSON is set to headline their first major concert with AFTER OURS: Live and in Full!, happening on July 17, 2026, at Aster Events Place in Mandaluyong City. The special show will bring the band’s acclaimed sophomore album to life through expansive arrangements, immersive production, and a revitalized live music experience unlike anything they’ve presented before.

Known for their lush sonic brew of Manila Sound, Japanese city pop, Brazilian funk, ‘80s OPM, and jazz, the five-piece act will perform the entirety of AFTER OURS alongside a full orchestra, offering audiences fresh interpretations that highlight the album’s sophistication and depth. The concert also marks a creative leap for the band, who have taken on a more active role in co-producing the show, further honing its artistic direction from concept to execution.

“Preparations are going exceptionally well,” the band shares in a press statement. “We’ve been rehearsing for this show as a band for a long time now, so we’re confident that we can put on a good show. We’ve also been rehearsing with our orchestra, and it’s another experience to hear our music played altogether like this with so many talented people. The production team and our management have also been working double time to get this show off the ground, so we’re truly thankful for all their help.”

Official poster

Apart from the orchestral collaboration, ALYSON hints that the audience can expect even more surprises throughout the evening.

The Summer Nights band reveals, “While we make no secret of the involvement of the orchestra and their hand in elevating our performance, we think there’s still room for surprises. Maybe some special guest or two, maybe some unexpected numbers. What we can say is that it’s a setlist you can only see at a show like this. You’ll have to be there to find out.”

Beyond the music, AFTER OURS: Live and in Full! is the band’s most ambitious production to date, reflecting years of growth, collaboration, and a desire to create a vital connection with their audience on a deeply personal level.

“This is, to date, the largest and most involved show we’ve ever done,” explains the band. “We’ve never played anything with this many people involved on and off the stage. It’s honestly evolved into something we never imagined we’d be able to do. We’re just happy to share this moment with everyone who’s supported us and treat them to an experience that’s beyond even what we imagined when we started this!”

The concert comes at an exciting time for ALYSON. Next month, the band will make its international festival debut at the AXEAN Festival in Bali, Indonesia, taking place on August 29 and 30 at Jimbaran Hub.

AFTER OURS: Live and in Full is co-presented by Offshore Music PH and GNN, with support from ONErpm.

Tickets are still available via bit.ly/afterourslive.

With hypnotic production and unwavering conviction, the bop celebrates resilience, ambition, and the confidence to stand your ground

Filipino hip-hop artist Alex Bruce delivers a bold new statement with the release of her new single “Gabriela,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Brimming with brooding production, hypnotic rhythms, and razor-sharp verses, “Gabriela” doubles as an anthem for those determined to prove themselves.

While the track exudes confidence through every verse and beat, its message reaches beyond swagger and vibes. It offers a more nuanced take on empowerment, especially for women who have been continuously wronged by the system.

“Confidence isn’t about thinking you’re better than anyone else,” Alex Bruce explains. “It’s about trusting yourself even if other people don’t. I’ve never liked how confidence gets praised in men but questioned in women. When men are confident, they’re seen as leaders. When women are, they’re often called arrogant or ‘too much.’ Gabriela is my way of saying: own who you are and don’t make yourself smaller to make other people comfortable.”

Like her previous releases, “Gabriela” reveals Bruce’s style of merging sharp-witted, confrontational lyricism with alpha-female energy. It demonstrates her strength as both an emcee and a wordsmith, championing confidence, authenticity, and the power to own one’s place without apology.

The song will be featured on the official soundtrack of the Filipino sports drama, Bilyarista, which made its world premiere at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa in November 2025 and will be screened in the Philippines sometime soon. Starring Loisa Andalio and John Arcilla, with cameos by pool legends Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante, Bilyarista follows the story of a young woman determined to rise through the competitive world of billiards in pursuit of becoming a world champion.

“Gabriela” is out now on all major digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Following a breakout run across Asia and fresh off the release of his most personal album yet, Singapore-based singer-songwriter lullaboy returns to the Philippines with a live experience that transforms heartbreak into healing

For many musicians, heartbreak becomes the spark for a single song. For Singapore-based singer-songwriter and producer lullaboy, it evolved into the inspiration behind an entire creative universe.

With more than 200 million streams to his name, a steadily expanding fanbase across Southeast Asia, and a talent for crafting deeply personal songs about love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, lullaboy has emerged as one of the region’s most notable independent artists. Born in the United States, raised in Singapore, and of Indonesian-Chinese descent, the Berklee College of Music graduate has graced some of Asia’s biggest stages and festivals, headlined successful regional tours, and was selected to perform at the official afterparties following all six Singapore shows of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour. Throughout his journey, he has stayed true to creating music defined by vulnerability, authenticity, and optimism.

“‘Lullaboy’ comes from the words ‘lullaby’ and ‘boy,’ because writing songs was always a way for me to comfort my inner child,” he shares. “Even today, I write songs about love, life, and everything in between, and I hope they can bring comfort to everybody’s inner child.”

That mission began after his first heartbreak, when songwriting became an outlet during a time he felt no one could truly understand what he was going through.

“As I released more songs, people started sending me messages saying they helped them through difficult seasons, “ he says. “That’s when I realized sharing my own stories could make a positive impact on other people’s lives. I don’t just make music for fun anymore—I do it because I feel like it’s my purpose.”

That purpose lies at the heart of Hotels & Heartbreaks, his third studio album and the inspiration behind his ongoing nine-city Asia tour. More than a concert, the experience invites audiences to “check in hurt and check out healed,” guiding listeners through an emotional journey of heartbreak, reflection, and hope. The album’s 12 interconnected tracks and visualizers were designed as one continuous story, transforming personal experiences into something listeners can see themselves in.

The concept grew from a realization that success alone could not replace genuine connection. “I was staying in all these beautiful hotels while touring,“ he recalls. “At the end of the day, I’d lie on my bed and ask myself, ‘What’s it all for?’ You can achieve your biggest dreams, but if you don’t have love or someone to share them with, it does not necessarily bring happiness.”

For lullaboy, every listener has their own “heartbreak hotel” to walk through before reaching a place of peace. “This album is actually an album of hope.”

The Philippines holds a special place in that journey. Before returning as a touring artist, he first visited the country through mission work as a young worship leader. Those early experiences—and the warmth he received from Filipino communities—left a lasting impression. “I remember telling myself that one day I would come back here as an artist,“ he says. “Then last year, I finally did my first concert in Manila, and I was blown away by how much warmth there was from the people. They sing really loud, they have beautiful voices. I’ve been waiting for this moment. I think the Lullafam knows how much I love the Philippines.”

Now, Hotels & Heartbreaks brings him back to Manila on July 17 as part of his biggest Asia tour yet, with stops across Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. Designed as an immersive live experience, the show blends music, storytelling, and interactive moments that invite fans to leave behind their own emotional baggage before “checking out” with a renewed sense of hope.

For newcomers wondering where to begin, boy recommends starting with “Someone Like You,” before moving into “Shortcut to Heaven,” and ending with “Heaven” —a progression that mirrors the emotional journey at the core of the album.

Above all, that is the message lullaboy hopes audiences take home. Reflecting on the journey, he shares, “Heartbreak isn’t the end. It’s something we all experience, and through it, we learn what truly matters. If I can make it through heartbreak, then anyone can.”

As lullaboy makes his return to Manila this July, Hotels & Heartbreaks promises more than just an evening of live music. It invites audiences into a journey through love, heartbreak, and healing, serving as a reminder that life’s most difficult moments often pave the way to where we truly belong.

lullaboy: Hotels & Heartbreaks Tour – Manila

July 17, 2026 / Teatrino Promenade

🎟Buy Tickets Here

Annual nationwide celebration returns this July with live performances, industry talks, and new regional collaborations that spotlight the evolving sound of Filipino music

Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino (LMP), the country’s annual nationwide celebration of Filipino music, returns this year with revitalized programming designed to champion the rich and diverse music scene in the Philippines.

Established through Proclamation No. 933 and signed by the late President Benigno S. Aquino III in 2014, LMP has become a viral platform for recognizing the lognstanding legacy of Original Pilipino Music. For more than twelve years, it has consistently inspired greater appreciation for homegrown music and played a crucial role in fostering a culture of collaboration and community in its month-long activities.

This year’s theme, “Pinoy Coded,” celebrates Filipino identity by highlighting how music reflects the nation’s culture, stories, and shared experiences. Through this year’s Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino, the campaign aims to strengthen support for OPM and recognize the artists, songwriters, producers, music practitioners, and industry stakeholders whose contributions continue to enrich the Filipino music catalog and make it world-class.

Last year’s LMP with speakers and attendees

OPM President Ogie Alcasid explains, “The theme this year was a product of being exposed to current trends and trying to engage with a younger core audience. But we still wanted to retain that love for our music and our culture. Hence, why we went with the theme Pinoy Coded. It celebrates Filipino music, but at the same time, it also acknowledges the ever-growing and evolving landscape and audience of our local music industry.”

Throughout July, Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino 2026 will present an eclectic and well-curated lineup of performances, educational programs, and community initiatives across multiple venues in Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and the rest of the country. This year’s festivities include the return of OPM Spotlight, a month-long concert series featuring OPM member-artists performing original compositions alongside iconic Filipino classics. Expanding beyond the capital, the celebration also welcomes collaborations with regional partners such as Nine Degrees North in Baguio, Palawan’s Songwriters’ Community, and Passion8 Events & Services in Iloilo, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to making the celebration more inclusive and representative of the country’ s vibrant music communities.

“For this year’s celebration, we’re excited to collaborate with productions outside of Metro Manila,” OPM Executive Director Gab Cabangon adds. “It has always been our goal to expand the LMP celebration to different parts of the country so that we get to celebrate and highlight the diversity and excellence of Filipino music and Filipino artists.”

OPM Spotlight: LMP2026 runs from July 1 to 31, with performances across different venues including Kubo at JT’s Manukan in Quezon City, Burnt Edges branches in Makati City, Beach House Bar & Grill in Marikina, What’s Your Poison in Población, and partner-produced stages in Palawan and Iloilo. Music fans can also expect an exciting showcase of OPM member-artists performing their original music and fresh renditions of iconic Filipino songs, highlighting the creativity and diverse voices at the forefront of the Philippine music landscape.

Complementing the Spotlight series is the LMP2026: Rockwell Series, an all-OPM acoustic showcase happening from July 25 to 31 at Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, Makati. Featuring eleven OPM solo artists performing a blend of original compositions and OPM favorites, the series continues Rockwell’s longstanding support for Filipino music by bringing live performances to one of the country’s premier lifestyle destinations. Meanwhile, aspiring musicians will also have their moment through LMP2026: OPM-ic Open Mic Night on July 29 at Backdoor. Maginhawa, where emerging artists and non-OPM members can perform original songs and OPM covers before fellow music enthusiasts. Proceeds from the event will directly support Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-Aawit’s future programs and initiatives.

Zsaris performing at last year’s LMP: Rockwell Series

Aside from live performances, LMP2026 continues its commitment to industry development through the LMP202 Music Talk Series on July 25 at Trinoma Cinema 6. Entirely dedicated to songwriters, producers, arrangers, music professionals, students, and other stakeholders, the half-day forum will tackle key issues concerning today’s music ecosystem: from industry research and creator support to music discovery, production, distribution, royalties, and emerging trends. The event also aims to foster meaningful dialogue, encourage collaboration, and equip participants with practical knowledge for navigating the evolving music industry.

2025 Music Talks panel featuring Jim Paredes, Miguel and Paolo Benjamin, and more

Cabangon emphasizes that this year’s Music Talk Series aims to provide a better understanding of the current landscape of the industry and provide practical guidance for those who want to pursue music as a career and passion. “We think it’s important that the various kinds of information are shared with other artists and professionals because we want as many members of our industry to succeed and thrive. We want artists and music industry professionals to be able to elevate their craft and their status because they’re making better-informed choices. We also want the Music Talk Series to be a space for professionals to connect with one another and expand their respective networks in the industry. We also think knowing where we are now as a local music industry would help us explore ways on how we can improve and grow as a whole in an ever-evolving landscape.”

Beyond its function as a festival, Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino remains a powerful movement that deepens appreciation for Original Pilipino Music while ensuring its continued preservation and growth. By providing platforms for both established and emerging artists, encouraging public engagement, and creating opportunities for music education and collaboration, LMP proves that Filipino music is not only an essential part of the country’s cultural identity but also a sustainable entity capable of inspiring future generations.

FILSCAP President Arturo “Nonoy Tan” Lui Pio believes in the importance of valuing music and supporting the music creators behind it. “That’s why Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino (LMP) is a meaningful celebration for us. Through our partnership with OPM, we continue to advance this shared advocacy of encouraging more Filipinos to appreciate, support, and take pride in original Filipino music and the creators whose voices, stories, and creativity shape the sound of our nation.”

Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino 2026 is presented by Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-Aawit’s (OPM) and FILSCAP, with support from Power Plant Mall as a major partner as well as MBC Media Group and Soundesign Manila as LMP2026 partners. OPM Spotlight and other music performances are made possible through collaboration with Nine Degrees North, Passion8 Events & Services, and the Palawan Songwriters’ Community. Promotional support is provided by DTI & Malikhaing Pinoy, IPOPHL, PRM, and PhilPop.