Filipino music has powered through countless shifts, breakthroughs, and explorations over the years. Genres have changed, new faces have risen to stardom, and a wide variety of our homegrown talents have finally gotten to make their mark on global stages.
Even at the height of these rapid-fire changes, though, we can always count on one artist (among many others) to remind us of the local music scene’s roots and nostalgic beginnings. Who better to do so than the “Pop Rock Royalty” herself, Yeng Constantino?
Photo: Yeng Constantino/Instagram
Like many of our favorite local artists, Yeng has done wonders for the world of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) since her debut in 2006. Now, she’s ready to celebrate every era of her artistry with her Yengsters of all ages at Biyaheng Bente, her 20th anniversary concert.
On August 28, 2026, Yeng will light up the Araneta Coliseum with her greatest hits and anthems that got us through every pivotal chapter in our lives. As we await the big day, which she’s making extra special with her upcoming single, “Isa, Dalawa, Tatlo, Cha,” here are ten Yeng Constantino classics that altered the course of Filipino music (and our brain chemistries) for the better:
“Chinito”
Bright, red hair? Check. A dance sequence with Enchong Dee? Check. All the makings of a timeless OPM hit? Check! “Chinito” is a total package—a musical manifestation of kilig in all aspects. We’ve all attached a story to this song at some point, which makes it hit different with every listen.
“Hawak Kamay”
“Hawak Kamay” will never fail to take us back to simpler times when making lasting memories with our dearest friends was all that mattered. This timeless anthem of trust, loyalty, and tenacity has touched hearts across every continent. Even Korean pop (K-pop) superstars EXO sang heartfelt renditions of it during their visits to Manila.
“Salamat”
Filipinos have successfully embedded “Salamat” into our youth thanks to one momentous occasion: National Teachers’ Day. Want to express your utmost appreciation to the formators and mentors who’ve positively influenced your student life? A sentimental cover of “Salamat” will always do the trick. This song also goes beyond its impact in pop culture to champion the sacrifices that our loved ones have made to ensure a bright future for us.
“Ikaw”
Weddings have never been the same since “Ikaw” first reached our radars in 2014. The powerful ballad has become a staple at husbands’ and wives’ special days, creating magic with every step they take down the aisle.
“Jeepney Love Story”
Have you ever been in the presence of someone so indescribably captivating, only to realize that you’ll probably never see them again? That’s the infectious and radiant magic that “Jeepney Love Story” captures within five minutes and 17 seconds. We’ve come across a total stunner who sat or stood next to us on public transport. This song expresses every bit of the experience’s thrill that we can’t quite put into words yet.
“If We Fall in Love” (with RJ Jimenez)
Yeng’s versatility shines in “If We Fall in Love,” a mellow gem in her discography that plays like the theme song to our favorite old-school romantic comedies. Cue the wide-eyed gazes, stolen glances, and slow-motion stares—every lyric is a masterclass in yearning that we’ll never get tired of.
“Time In”
Mga certified main character, mag-ingay! Ambition and girl power take center stage in “Time In,” a youthful burst of energy reminiscent of the opening scenes of our favorite coming-of-age films.
“Cool Off”
We’re slowing things down this time around with “Cool Off,” which shows a more somber side to Yeng as she portrays the complications of a relationship on the rocks. If you’re a fan of Avril Lavigne’s hit songs “I’m With You” and “Complicated,” then “Cool Off” is right up your alley.
“Paasa (T.A.N.G.A)”
Love can make even the most composed people we know go a little crazy at times. We’ve all made questionable decisions for the people we shamelessly adore, so much so that we ignore the signs of false hope that were probably under our noses the entire time. If you’ve been there, like many of us already have, then let Yeng give you a much-needed mood boost with her playfully and cleverly written 2016 hit, “Paasa (T.A.N.G.A).”
“Kaibigan Mo” (with Sarah Geronimo)
Our lasting friendships deserve an equally enduring theme song, and for most Filipinos, “Kaibigan Mo” is exactly that. Nothing embodies platonic love better than this sentimental song, where every verse is a promise of a meaningful relationship that’ll withstand the tests of time.
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What’s your favorite song by Yeng Constantino? Are you excited for her 20th anniversary concert this August? Let us know in the comments below!
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