The Filipino music scene has come a long way in uplifting the stories, aspirations, and experiences of our homegrown artists. Thanks to the legendary hitmakers who’ve left a lasting impression on every generation, more doors have opened today for a new wave of talents to step into the spotlight.
We couldn’t be prouder of the meteoric rise that the Original Pilipino Music (OPM) and Pinoy Pop (P-pop) industries have rightfully experienced through the years. There’s no better time than now to keep the momentum alive and introduce fresh faces from every region to the rapidly growing community, creative space, and inclusive platform.

Photo: Sony Music Philippines
As OPM, P-pop, and every other extension of Filipino music continue to break boundaries on a global scale, all eyes are on these brilliant young performers under Sony Music Philippines who have their hearts set on taking the scene by storm. Hailing from diverse regions and backgrounds, they each strive to establish themselves as artists to watch, championing culturally diverse stories and perspectives through their work.
We can’t wait to witness these eight emerging voices grow into the full-fledged Filipino artists that they strive to be. Here’s how they’ve been making the most out of their time in the spotlight so far:
HARA
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There are no limits to what this sassy six-member girl group from Davao can do. HARA’s upcoming predebut single, “My Love,” aims to showcase their captivating talent with a distinct, upbeat sound that pays homage to their hometowns. P-pop fans can also get to know more about Ai, Blythz, Ckhy, Lory, Tashi, and Yani before they officially debut when “My Love” hits streaming platforms on February 25, 2026.
AYO
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Another Davao-based P-pop group that we can look forward to this year is AYO, which consists of Enzo, GV, Justin, Patrick, Renzo, TJ, and Zack. Their group name derives from the Bisaya term “Maayo,” meaning “great,” or “mahusay” in Tagalog. Fans can follow AYO on social media while waiting for new music from the group throughout the year.
DAELUX
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Alice, Ara, Rhya, Slane, Tabel, Zyra, and former Pinoy Big Brother: Otso housemate Shami make up DALEUX, a new P-pop girl group from Davao that shines onstage with dynamic energy, global flair, and an enchanting sound that showcases the members’ versatility. DAELUX is gearing up for a refreshing debut this year, with exciting teasers that fans can check out on the group’s social media pages.
Rock Opong
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Rock Opong is no stranger to the vast OPM scene. The singer-songwriter from Iloilo had his first taste of the spotlight on The Voice Teens and Asia’s Got Talent, where his exceptional vocals and stage presence brought him far on both competitions. After Rock’s remarkable runs on the two shows, he found his footing in OPM with love songs that radiate warmth and sincerity. This rings true to his latest single, “Favorite,” which he released on January 21, 2026, across all streaming platforms.
Trisha Puso
No dreams are too big for this Bicolana go-getter, who’s been actively involved in the local music scene since 2010. Trisha Puso developed a penchant for performing on the CamSur Academy Project, a talent agency that helped her grow as an aspiring artist. In 2024, she became Sony Music Philippines’ first licensed artist from Camarines Sur. Trisha’s latest single, “Alapaap,” is a certified “yearning anthem” about destiny and fate that every hopeless romantic can resonate with at first listen.
Mikee Sarmiento
Soulful, sentimental, and cinematic are only a few words that describe Mikee Sarmiento’s growing discography. He portrays Filipinos’ everyday experiences through songs that reflect on love, longing, spirituality, and self-discovery. As an artist who “wears his heart on his sleeve,” Mikee also hopes to foster comforting spaces through his craft.
LU
Folk-pop artist LU carries priceless memories of her hometown wherever she goes. Having grown up in San Luis, Aurora, and now based in Quezon City, LU’s music is rooted in poetic tunes and experimental pursuits that highlight her experiences in both places. Her breakthrough single, “Lasing Na Sa’yo,” debuted at the number one spot on Spotify’s Fresh Finds chart in July last year. And on February 13, 2026, she’s set to release “PUCHA,” a heartbreak anthem that we can all put on repeat throughout the month of love.
NEW LORE
NEW LORE wants your feelings to find a home in their songs and stories, no matter how messy or chaotic they may get. The three-member band consists of Carole Lantican on drums, Tita Halaman on vocals and guitars, and Kim Escalona on bass. Since 2025, they’ve consistently shared their love for music, art, and poetry through their distinct body of work, which explores the various subgenres of pop in line with the latest online trends and think pieces.
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Will you be tuning in to these emerging OPM and P-pop artists? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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