OPM’s Class of 2026: The New Icons You Need to Know

Coming from different regions and backgrounds, these emerging acts deliver distinct stories, sounds, and cultural influences that add depth and diversity to the burgeoning music scene in the Philippines

A new generation of OPM artists is stepping into the spotlight—and 2026 is shaping up to be their breakout year.

Across the country, a wave of fresh, fearless acts is preparing to release music that challenges conventions and expands the sound of contemporary Filipino pop. From P-Pop powerhouses to introspective singer-songwriters and genre-blurring bands, these emerging artists from Sony Music Entertainment are ready to leave a lasting imprint. Bookmark their names now—because the next big movement in OPM starts here.

HARA (Davao)

The newest P-Pop girl group on the scene, HARA is a sassy six-piece act built for the stage. With dynamic performances and a sound proudly produced in their hometown of Davao, the group brings both local roots and global ambition to the forefront. Their pre-debut single, “My Love,” drops on February 25, 2026—marking the first step in what promises to be a powerful ascent.

AYO (Davao)

Seven-member boy group AYO is ready to bring their A-game to P-Pop. Their name comes from the Visayan word “Maayo,” meaning skillful or talented—a fitting descriptor for a group poised to make an impact. With new music set to debut this year, AYO aims to establish themselves as a vital new force in the genre.

DAELUX (Davao)

Composed of Tabel, Zyra, Shami, Rhya, Ara, Slane, and Alice, DAELUX blends Filipina pride with global flair. Graceful yet commanding, the seven-member girl group offers a refreshing take on pop music while delivering performances that radiate confidence and power. Teasers are already building buzz online as they gear up for an exciting debut this year.

Rock Opong (Iloilo)

From talent show standout to rising recording artist, Rock Opong has steadily built momentum. A grand finalist on The Voice Teens and semi-finalist on Asia’s Got Talent, he now begins a new chapter under Balcony Entertainment. His latest single, “Favorite,” captures the warmth and intimacy of romantic love—authentic, heartfelt, and deeply relatable.

Trisha Puso (Bicol)

Trisha Puso’s journey began in 2010 as one of the pioneer artists of the CamSur Academy Project. From performing covers to writing and producing her own music, she steadily cultivated a loyal following. In 2024, she became Sony Music Philippines’ first licensed artist from CamSur. Her upcoming single, “Alapaap,” set for release on January 28, 2026, explores love, destiny, and the longing for a connection that feels safe and fated.

Mikee Sarmiento (Metro Manila)

Mikee Sarmiento crafts soulful pop that lingers in the quiet spaces between longing and comfort. Cinematic and deeply personal, his music speaks to the Filipino experience with unfiltered vulnerability—touching on life, love, spirituality, and emotional healing. His debut single, “Tahan Na,” arrives on January 30, 2026, signaling the emergence of a voice unafraid to feel deeply.

LU (Aurora)

Raised in San Luis, Aurora, and now based in Quezon City, LU infuses her folk-pop sound with the imprint of her coastal hometown. Known for melodically rich songwriting and earnest delivery, she recently gained streaming success with “Lasing Na Sa’yo,” landing the cover of Spotify’s Fresh Finds Philippines and debuting at No. 1 on the playlist. On February 13, 2026, she releases “PUCHA,” an upbeat alt-pop heartbreak anthem that showcases her range and boldness.

NEW LORE (Metro Manila)

Carole Lantican (drums), Tita Halaman (vocals and guitars), and Kim Escalona (bass) make up NEW LORE—a three-piece band that transforms art and poetry into sound. Their music has been labeled trauma pop, dream pop, ethereal alt-pop—yet they simply create what feels true. Their upcoming single, “Substack Girl,” out on February 6, 2026, is a tender, self-aware love song about missing someone through the details that define them. Hypnotic in production and intimate in lyricism, it asks quiet questions about identity, growth, and whether love lingers long after people drift apart.

These artists represent a bold new chapter in OPM—diverse in sound, rooted in identity, and fearless in expression. As 2026 unfolds, expect their music to shape conversations, playlists, and the future of Filipino pop.