SOCIAL MEDIA

Shakira's "Dai Dai" Tops Spotify Global, Becomes the World's No. 1 Song

Wednesday, July 22, 2026


Global pop icon Shakira has added another milestone to her career after her FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem "Dai Dai," featuring Nigerian superstar Burna Boy, climbed to No. 1 on the Spotify Global chart, making it the most-streamed song in the world.

The chart-topping hit 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, underscoring its broad international appeal.

Shakira Sets Another Spotify Record

The success of "Dai Dai" has propelled Shakira to new heights on Spotify.

She has risen to No. 6 among the platform's most-streamed artists worldwide and has become the first artist in Spotify history to achieve No. 1 songs in both English and Spanish, adding another record to her decades-long music career.

The achievement highlights Shakira's continued influence in global pop music, more than 30 years after her breakthrough into the international music scene.

"Dai Dai" Continues to Climb Worldwide

Beyond its Spotify success, the song continues to perform strongly across several major music markets.

"Dai Dai" is currently inside the Top 5 on midweek music charts in Portugal, Canada, China, Italy, and United Kingdom.

The strong chart performance suggests the FIFA World Cup anthem continues to gain momentum well beyond its initial release.

Music Video Nears 500 Million Views

The official music video for "Dai Dai" is also enjoying massive success on YouTube.

It currently holds the No. 1 spot on YouTube's Global Music Charts and has accumulated nearly 500 million views, making it one of the platform's biggest music releases of the year.

The video's continued popularity has helped keep the song at the center of global music conversations.

Stadium Tour Set for September and October

Following the success of her record-breaking stadium tours across North and South America, Shakira is preparing for another major live concert series.

The singer is scheduled to perform 12 stadium shows at Shakira Stadium this September and October, with the concerts expected to rank among the year's biggest live entertainment events.

"Dai Dai" demonstrates how global collaborations continue to shape today's music industry. By bringing together Colombian superstar Shakira and Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy, the FIFA World Cup anthem has resonated with audiences across multiple languages and regions.

The song's streaming success also reflects the growing influence of international artists on global music charts, where multilingual releases increasingly compete alongside English-language hits.
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EastWest Dream Run Manila Set for August 2; Registration Still Open


Thousands of runners are expected to gather at Filinvest City in Alabang on August 2 as the EastWest Dream Run Manila officially kicks off the four-leg EastWest Dream Run 2026 series.

With race day less than two weeks away, organizers are encouraging interested participants to secure their slots while registration remains open.

What is the EastWest Dream Run Manila?

The EastWest Dream Run Manila is the opening event of the bank's expanded nationwide running series for 2026. Following last year's successful debut, which attracted around 14,000 participants across Manila, Cebu, and Davao, this year's edition will visit four cities.

After Manila, the series will continue in:
  • Clark – August 30
  • Iloilo – Date to be announced
  • Cagayan de Oro – Date to be announced

The event welcomes runners of all fitness levels, from first-time participants to experienced athletes, as well as families and pet owners.

Race Categories


Participants may register for the following distances:
  • 1K Dog Run
  • 3K
  • 5K
  • 10K
  • 21K Half Marathon

Registered runners will receive race kits that include a race bib and race singlet. Eligible participants will also receive finisher's medals, loot bags, finisher's towels, and a finisher's shirt for the 21K category.

Race Village to Feature Activities and Partner Booths

Beyond the race itself, participants can visit the event's race village, where several activity zones and sponsor booths will be available throughout the day.

Among the featured attractions are:

  • Dyson Cooling Zone and Cooling Booth
  • EastWest Horizons Club Recovery Lounge
  • Food and beverage booths
  • Brand activations
  • Giveaways from participating sponsors

Event partners include Filinvest, Visa, EastWest Ageas, foodpanda, Ford, Dyson, Saucony, Mizuno, Nutribullet, Puregold, Aqua Planet, Colgate-Palmolive, Mogu Mogu, Daily Fix, Salonpas, and other brands.

Hotel and Registration Perks

Registered participants who plan to stay overnight may avail of discounted room rates at Quest Plus Conference Center Manila, the event's official hotel partner, with savings of up to 60%.

Meanwhile, EastWest credit cardholders can receive a ₱500 rebate for a minimum ₱3,000 Dream Run registration purchase, subject to the promo terms and conditions.

How to Register

Those interested in joining the EastWest Dream Run Manila can register through the official event website before race day.

With thousands of runners expected to participate, organizers advise registering early to secure a slot.

Fun runs and road races continue to grow in popularity across the Philippines as more Filipinos embrace active lifestyles and community fitness events. By expanding to four cities in 2026, the EastWest Dream Run gives more runners around the country the opportunity to participate in organized races while promoting health, recreation, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
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Jollibee Launches JolliBINI Meal Bundles with BINI Collectibles

Sunday, July 19, 2026


If you're a BLOOM or simply love collecting exclusive merch, Jollibee has something new to add excitement to your next meal. The country's leading fast food chain has officially launched the JolliBINI Meal Bundles, combining fan-favorite meals with limited-edition collectibles inspired by P-pop sensation BINI.

Available for a limited time, the promotion gives fans the opportunity to enjoy Jollibee classics while building their own collection of BINI-themed merchandise.

JolliBINI Meal Bundles Available Until August 31

Running from July 15 to August 31, the JolliBINI Meal Bundles are available at Jollibee stores nationwide for both dine-in and takeout customers.

Each bundle includes random collectibles featuring one of BINI's eight members, making every purchase a surprise for fans. Lucky customers may also receive a Special Group Photocard, one of the rarest collectibles in the promotion.

According to Jollibee Philippines Vice President for Marketing Dorothy Ching, the campaign aims to make every meal more enjoyable by giving customers another reason to visit and share memorable experiences with fellow fans.

She added that the collectible aspect encourages fans to trade, collect, and complete the full JolliBINI set together.

What's Inside the JolliBINI Meal Bundles?


Customers can choose between two meal options:

JolliBINI Bundle A

Starting at ₱269, Bundle A includes:

  • Original or Special Cheesy Yumburger
  • 1-piece Chickenjoy with rice
  • Regular drink
  • One random JolliBINI Collectible Set containing:
  • Bag Charm
  • Photocard

JolliBINI Bundle B

Starting at ₱399, Bundle B comes with:

  • Original or Special Double Cheesy Yumburger
  • 1-piece Chickenjoy with rice
  • Large drink
  • Two random JolliBINI Collectible Sets

Since the collectibles are randomly packed, fans hoping to complete the entire collection may find themselves returning for more meals or trading duplicates with fellow BLOOMs.

Collectibles Add More Fun to Every Meal

Beyond the food, the campaign taps into the growing popularity of collectible merchandise among Filipino fans.

The limited-edition bag charms and photocards transform an ordinary fast food purchase into a fun unboxing experience. With each purchase offering a different member, every meal comes with a sense of anticipation.

The chance to receive the exclusive Special Group Photocard also adds another level of excitement for collectors.

Expect Social Media to Be Filled with JolliBINI Unboxings

As with previous collaborations involving BINI, the promotion is likely to generate strong engagement online as BLOOMs race to complete the full set before the campaign ends.

Where to Get the JolliBINI Meal Bundles

The JolliBINI Meal Bundles are available at participating Jollibee branches nationwide from July 15 until August 31 for dine-in and takeout.

Since the collectibles are available only while supplies last, fans planning to complete the collection may want to visit early during the promotional period.

Whether you're craving Chickenjoy, collecting BINI merchandise, or simply joining the latest fan craze, the JolliBINI Meal Bundles offer a fun way to enjoy both food and fandom.
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9th Ortigas Art Festival Brings Free Art, Film, and Workshops to GH Mall

Friday, July 17, 2026


If you've been looking for a creative way to spend your day without spending on admission, the 9th Ortigas Art Festival is worth adding to your July itinerary. Returning from July 17 to 30, 2026, the festival transforms GH Mall into an open cultural space where visitors can enjoy contemporary art exhibitions, independent films, live performances, and hands-on workshops, all for free.

Now on its ninth year, the festival continues to make art more accessible to everyone, proving that meaningful cultural experiences don't have to be confined to traditional museums and galleries.

This Year's Theme: "Elevate"

The theme "Elevate" reflects how the Ortigas Art Festival has grown from a simple painting exhibition into one of Metro Manila's most anticipated celebrations of Filipino creativity.

Built around its long-standing advocacy of "Art for All," this year's edition invites visitors to experience creativity through multiple forms of artistic expression, from visual arts and immersive installations to cinema, music, dance, and interactive workshops.

According to Renato "Ato" Habulan, Lead Curator of the Ortigas Art Festival:

"The theme 'Elevate' is both a reflection and a call to action. It honors how far the festival has come over nine years, while challenging artists and audiences alike to rise higher, think deeper, and experience art in new and unexpected ways right here in their neighborhood mall."

Celebrating Filipino National Artists

One of the highlights of this year's festival is its tribute to some of the country's most influential cultural figures.

Visitors can explore exhibitions dedicated to:

  • National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, presented in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Press
  • National Artist for Theater Design Salvador Bernal, through a special exhibition mounted with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)

These exhibitions offer a deeper appreciation of the artists whose work has helped shape Philippine literature, theater, and visual culture.

Spotlight on Junyee and Contemporary Filipino Artists

The festival also features acclaimed environmental sculptor Junyee, widely recognized as the "Father of Philippine Installation Art."

Known for transforming natural materials into large-scale installations, Junyee's work demonstrates how art can connect people with both culture and the environment.

Beyond the featured artist, visitors can also discover works from numerous galleries, artist collectives, and creative organizations, including:

  • Agos Studio
  • Eskinita Art Gallery
  • Linangan Art Residency
  • Thombayan Art Space
  • Art Circle Gallery
  • Historia Art Gallery
  • Nami Art Gallery
  • Collective Artists of Angono
  • Mindoro Artists Group
  • Pasig Art Club
  • Ortigas Foundation

Photography enthusiasts can also visit the Born in Film exhibit showcasing nostalgic and contemporary images from different parts of the Philippines.

Independent Filipino Films Take Center Stage

The 9th Ortigas Art Festival expands beyond visual arts with an impressive lineup of independent films presented in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

Moviegoers can enjoy screenings from:

  • Cinemartrys
  • Alipato at Muog
  • Lakbay Sine
  • Gawad Alternatibo
  • Cinemalaya

The lineup also includes the documentary That We May See, directed by Paul Morales, which revisits the story of Kaisahan on its 50th anniversary.

Works by acclaimed filmmaker Sari Dalena and award-winning short films such as I'm The Best Left Inside My Head by Elian Idoma and Pastil: Parehas Ra Ta'g Kan-on'g Ginakaon by Andrei Francis "Franky" C. Arrocena further enrich the festival's cinematic offerings.

Hands-On Workshops for Every Skill Level

For visitors who prefer creating art instead of simply viewing it, the festival offers a wide variety of free workshops throughout its run.

Participants can explore:

  • Acrylic pouring
  • Block printing
  • Textured plaster art
  • Paper cutting
  • Sketching
  • Storytelling
  • Copyright masterclasses by Born in Film

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced creative, the workshops encourage everyone to discover new artistic skills in a welcoming environment.

Supporting the Next Generation of Artists


This year also marks the launch of the Ortigas Art Grant, a new artist development initiative that extends support beyond the festival itself.

Selected artists will develop new works for the festival's 10th anniversary in 2027, with the chosen grantee receiving recognition and an opportunity for international exposure connected to Art Basel Hong Kong 2027.

The program reflects the festival's commitment to nurturing emerging Filipino artists while helping them reach wider audiences.

Why the Ortigas Art Festival Is Worth Visiting

What sets the Ortigas Art Festival apart is its accessibility.

Instead of limiting art appreciation to dedicated gallery spaces, the festival brings creativity into a familiar everyday setting where families, students, aspiring artists, and casual mallgoers can experience Philippine art together.

After nine successful editions, its "Art for All" mission continues to resonate by making culture more approachable and encouraging people to slow down, explore, and discover something unexpected.

Whether you're passionate about contemporary art, independent cinema, photography, or simply looking for an inspiring weekend activity, the 9th Ortigas Art Festival offers a meaningful cultural experience that's open to everyone.
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Alex Bruce Drops Empowering New Single “Gabriela”

Wednesday, July 15, 2026


Filipino hip-hop continues to evolve with a new wave of artists using music not just to entertain but also to challenge stereotypes and spark meaningful conversations. Among the voices leading that movement is Alex Bruce, whose latest single, "Gabriela," delivers a fearless message about confidence, identity, and self-worth.

Released under Sony Music Entertainment, the track combines hard-hitting rap verses, moody production, and an unapologetic attitude that encourages listeners, especially women, to embrace their strengths without seeking validation from others.

"Gabriela" Is More Than a Confidence Anthem

At first listen, "Gabriela" stands out for its brooding beats, hypnotic rhythm, and Alex Bruce's commanding flow. But beneath its bold production lies a deeper message.

Rather than celebrating confidence for its own sake, the song questions the double standards that often shape how society views self-assured women.

For Bruce, confidence should never be mistaken for arrogance.

She explains:

"Confidence isn't about thinking you're better than anyone else. It's about trusting yourself even if other people don't."

She also points out how men and women are often judged differently for displaying the same level of confidence.

"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."

Through these lyrics, the song becomes both a personal statement and an empowering anthem for listeners navigating similar experiences.

Alex Bruce Continues to Define Her Signature Style

Since emerging on the local music scene, Alex Bruce has built a reputation for combining clever lyricism with assertive storytelling.

Her music consistently blends sharp rap delivery, introspective writing, and themes centered on confidence, resilience, and authenticity.

"Gabriela" continues that artistic direction, showcasing her ability to write songs that balance attitude with substance.

Rather than relying solely on bravado, Bruce uses her verses to challenge expectations while encouraging listeners to embrace who they are without apology.

Featured in the Upcoming Film Bilyarista

The release of "Gabriela" also coincides with another exciting milestone.

The song has been selected as part of the official soundtrack for the upcoming Filipino sports drama Bilyarista, which premiered internationally at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa in November 2025.

The film stars Loisa Andalio and John Arcilla, with special appearances by legendary Filipino billiards champions Efren "Bata" Reyes and Francisco "Django" Bustamante.

Bilyarista follows the story of a determined young woman pursuing her dream of becoming a world champion in competitive billiards, making "Gabriela" a fitting musical companion to the film's themes of perseverance and ambition.

The movie is expected to arrive in Philippine cinemas soon.

A Powerful Voice in Filipino Hip-Hop

As more Filipino artists gain recognition for using music to tell authentic stories, Alex Bruce continues to stand out with songs that combine lyrical skill and social commentary.

With "Gabriela," she delivers a track that speaks to anyone who has ever been told to tone down their confidence or shrink themselves to fit other people's expectations.

It's a reminder that believing in yourself isn't something to apologize for.

Whether you're already following Alex Bruce's music or discovering her for the first time, "Gabriela" offers a powerful introduction to an artist unafraid to use her voice to inspire, challenge, and empower.

The single is now available on major digital streaming platforms world
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lullaboy Brings Hotels & Heartbreaks Tour to Manila This July


Some albums are made to entertain. Others become companions through life's most difficult seasons.

For Singapore-based singer-songwriter lullaboy, music has always been more than catchy melodies or streaming milestones. It's a way of processing emotions, finding healing, and creating a safe space where listeners can feel understood. That heartfelt approach has earned him more than 200 million streams, a devoted fanbase across Southeast Asia, and a reputation for writing songs that resonate long after the music ends.

Now, the independent artist is bringing that message to Filipino fans as his Hotels & Heartbreaks Tour makes a stop in Manila on July 17 at Teatrino Promenade.

From Heartbreak to Healing Through Music

Behind the name lullaboy is a deeply personal story.

Born in the United States, raised in Singapore, and of Indonesian-Chinese heritage, the Berklee College of Music graduate chose the name by combining the words "lullaby" and "boy."

For him, songwriting became a form of comfort.

"‘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 journey began after experiencing his first heartbreak, when writing songs became his way of making sense of emotions he struggled to express.

As more listeners discovered his music, the messages they sent transformed his perspective.

"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."

Inside Hotels & Heartbreaks

The artist's latest project, Hotels & Heartbreaks, serves as both his third studio album and the creative inspiration behind his current nine-city Asia tour.

Rather than simply performing a collection of songs, lullaboy designed the experience to feel like an emotional journey where audiences are invited to "check in hurt and check out healed."

Its 12 interconnected tracks tell a continuous story of heartbreak, self-reflection, growth, and hope, accompanied by visual elements that bring the narrative to life.

The concept emerged during his travels while touring across Asia.

Despite staying in luxury hotels and achieving career milestones, he found himself questioning whether success alone could bring fulfillment.

"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."

That realization became the emotional foundation of the album.

For lullaboy, everyone eventually finds themselves in their own version of a "heartbreak hotel." The goal isn't to stay there forever but to emerge stronger on the other side.

As he puts it:

"This album is actually an album of hope."

Why Manila Holds a Special Place in His Heart

Although this marks one of his biggest tours to date, the Philippines has long held a special meaning for the artist.

Before performing here professionally, lullaboy first visited the country through missionary work as a young worship leader. Those experiences introduced him to Filipino hospitality long before he stepped onto a concert stage.

He remembers promising himself that he would someday return as an artist.

That dream became reality last year when he performed his first concert in Manila.

"I was blown away by how much warmth there was from the people," he says. "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."

A Tour Across Asia

The Hotels & Heartbreaks Tour spans nine cities across Asia, with stops in:

  • Manila
  • Malaysia
  • Indonesia
  • Hong Kong
  • Taiwan
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Singapore

Each performance combines live music, storytelling, and immersive visuals that encourage audiences to reflect on their own experiences with love, loss, and healing.

For those discovering his music for the first time, lullaboy recommends listening in this order:

  • Someone Like You
  • Shortcut to Heaven
  • Heaven

Together, the three songs capture the emotional progression that defines the album.

More Than Just Another Concert

In an era where many live performances focus on spectacle, Hotels & Heartbreaks offers something more intimate.

It's a reminder that vulnerability can create connection, and that sharing personal stories often helps others feel less alone.

As lullaboy prepares to return to Manila, audiences can expect more than an evening of heartfelt music. They'll be invited into a space where heartbreak isn't treated as the end of the story but as the beginning of healing.

For anyone navigating change, loss, or new beginnings, Hotels & Heartbreaks offers a comforting message: even life's most difficult chapters can lead to hope.
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Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino 2026 Celebrates OPM with 'Pinoy Coded'


July is once again taking center stage for Original Pilipino Music (OPM) as Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino (LMP) 2026 returns with a bigger, more inclusive celebration of Filipino artistry. This year's festivities promise more than just live performances, bringing together artists, music professionals, and fans through concerts, educational forums, and community-driven events across the country.

With the theme "Pinoy Coded," this year's celebration shines a spotlight on the stories, culture, and shared experiences that continue to shape the sound of Filipino music while embracing the industry's evolving landscape.

What Is Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino?

Established through Proclamation No. 933 in 2014, Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino has grown into the country's annual nationwide celebration dedicated to promoting and preserving Original Pilipino Music.

Over the past 12 years, the initiative has helped encourage greater appreciation for local music while creating opportunities for artists, songwriters, producers, and industry professionals to collaborate and connect with audiences.

Today, LMP continues to serve as an important platform for celebrating both legendary OPM icons and emerging talents shaping the future of Philippine music.

Why the Theme 'Pinoy Coded' 

This year's theme reflects how music remains deeply connected to Filipino identity.

According to OPM President Ogie Alcasid, "Pinoy Coded" was inspired by current trends and the desire to connect with younger audiences while preserving the country's love for Filipino music and culture.

The campaign recognizes that OPM continues to evolve alongside new generations of listeners, proving that local music remains relevant across different genres, platforms, and communities.

A Nationwide Celebration of Filipino Music

Unlike previous editions concentrated mainly in Metro Manila, Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino 2026 expands its reach by collaborating with regional partners across the country.

In addition to events in the National Capital Region, this year's celebration includes partnerships with:

  • Nine Degrees North in Baguio
  • Palawan Songwriters' Community
  • Passion8 Events & Services in Iloilo

These collaborations reinforce LMP's goal of showcasing the diversity of Filipino music while giving more regional artists and audiences opportunities to participate.

As OPM Executive Director Gab Cabangon explained, expanding outside Metro Manila has always been part of the organization's vision to highlight the excellence and variety of Filipino musical talent nationwide.

OPM Spotlight Returns Throughout July

One of the festival's biggest highlights is the return of OPM Spotlight, a month-long concert series running from July 1 to 31.

The performances feature OPM member-artists presenting original compositions alongside fresh interpretations of beloved Filipino classics.

Concerts will be held at several venues, including:

  • Kubo at JT's Manukan, Quezon City
  • Burnt Edges branches in Makati
  • Beach House Bar & Grill, Marikina
  • What's Your Poison in Poblacion
  • Partner venues in Palawan and Iloilo

The series offers audiences a chance to discover new music while celebrating timeless OPM favorites.

Acoustic Performances Take Over Rockwell

Adding to this year's lineup is the LMP2026 Rockwell Series, scheduled from July 25 to 31 at Power Plant Mall in Makati.

The all-OPM acoustic showcase will feature 11 solo artists performing a mix of original songs and classic Filipino hits.

The collaboration continues Power Plant Mall's longstanding support for local music by bringing live performances into one of Metro Manila's premier lifestyle destinations.

Giving Emerging Artists the Spotlight

Aspiring musicians will also have the opportunity to perform during LMP2026: OPM-ic Open Mic Night on July 29 at Backdoor Maginhawa.

The event welcomes both OPM members and independent artists to perform original songs and OPM covers before fellow music lovers.

Proceeds from the event will help support future programs of the Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-Aawit (OPM).

Learning Beyond the Stage

Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino is also investing in the future of the local music industry through the LMP2026 Music Talk Series on July 25 at Trinoma Cinema 6.

Designed for songwriters, producers, arrangers, students, and music professionals, the half-day forum will explore topics including:

  • Music production
  • Songwriting
  • Distribution platforms
  • Royalties
  • Creator support
  • Music industry research
  • Emerging trends

Cabangon noted that the forum aims to equip participants with practical knowledge while encouraging networking and collaboration among professionals navigating today's rapidly changing music landscape.

Celebrating the Future of OPM

Beyond concerts and educational programs, Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino continues to champion a larger mission: ensuring that Original Pilipino Music remains vibrant, relevant, and sustainable for future generations.

FILSCAP President Arturo "Nonoy Tan" Lui Pio emphasized that supporting Filipino music also means recognizing the creators behind every song and encouraging more Filipinos to appreciate the voices and stories that define the country's musical identity.

As LMP2026 unfolds throughout July, it serves as a reminder that Filipino music continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in the culture and creativity that make it uniquely our own.

Whether you're discovering emerging artists, singing along to timeless classics, or learning more about the local music industry, this year's celebration offers countless ways to experience the richness of OPM.
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