MATÉO takes a bold step forward in his musical journey with the release of “POREBER,” his first full-band single, now featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday Philippines playlist. Known for his viral hit “Lalim”—which has surpassed 40 million streams—MATÉO continues to captivate listeners with tracks like “Pinipili,” “Tungo,” and his Cinderella-inspired “Bato Sa Buhangin.” With “POREBER,” he presents a song that celebrates love in its quiet, everyday moments.
“Poreber is about holding onto the promise of forever with your loved one—not through grand gestures, but through the little moments that make love lasting,” MATÉO shares. “Where ‘Lalim’ is for goodnight, ‘Poreber’ is for good morning.”
Crafting a Richer Sound
Initially written with just voice and guitar, MATÉO collaborated with friends to create a fuller, more layered sound. “I love producing my own music and letting each instrument guide the song naturally,” he says. One memorable moment came while recording harmonica: “Ian Lofamia played in his garage, dogs barking, someone cutting a tree outside… but it all added to the energy of the track.”
Visualizing Love in “POREBER”
The music video mirrors the warmth of the song—celebrating love in everyday life. “The single always felt like spring to me… your own paradise with your loved one,” MATÉO says. Minimal, intentional visuals accompany the full-band sound, while a mannequin creatively represents unconditional love. “Originally, I planned to feature a leading lady, but the mannequin allowed me to express love through my own actions,” he explains.
Recognition and Reflection
“POREBER” follows MATÉO’s nomination for Folk Song of the Year at the first Filipino Music Awards for “Lalim,” a milestone he describes as validation for making music true to himself. He also earned two nominations at the 11th Wish Music Awards in January 2026: Wish Breakthrough Artist of the Year and Wishclusive Contemporary Folk Performance of the Year for “Lalim.”
A Heartfelt Holiday Release
On November 28, MATÉO releases “Sana Ngayong Pasko,” a remake of the holiday classic written by his uncle, Jimmy Borja, for the MMFF film Rekonek. “It pulled a lot from me emotionally,” he reflects. “Christmas is always about the relationships we have with family and loved ones.”
Closing 2025 on a High Note
MATÉO reflects on a year of growth, recognition, and new milestones. His first full year under Korean label Abyss Company included three singles, a broader sound, and expanded reach across the Philippines. With an FMA nomination and two Wish Music Awards nods, he has solidified his place in OPM while reaching a global audience. “Each release pushes me to grow. I’m grateful people get to witness that journey,” he says.
“POREBER” is available now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, and all digital streaming platforms: ffm.to/poreber_mateo
