Universal Records Managing Director Kathleen Dy-Go Is Billboard Philippines’ Executive of the Year - OPM Vanguard

Universal Records Managing Director Kathleen Dy-Go Is Billboard Philippines’ Executive of the Year - OPM Vanguard

Billboard Philippines recently honored notable Filipina executives for their outstanding contributions to the local music scene. At their Women In Music: The Executive Edition awards night last March 28, 2025 held at Old Manila in The Peninsula Manila, Universal Records Managing Director Kathleen Dy-Go was given the Executive of the Year - OPM Vanguard award.

Multimedia star Donny Pangilinan presented the OPM Vanguard award to Kathleen Dy-Go. “One can say that our next honoree was born into the music industry quite literally,” he said. “The daughter of Philippine record industry pioneer Dr. James Dy, she grew up surrounded by artists who occasionally visited her family’s home, and watched as her older siblings worked with music stars as they performed at concerts and variety shows, deepening her passion for music, particularly for the homegrown kind.”

Ramdiss Releases New Rap Track “Anino”

Ramdiss comes through with his latest single, "Anino," an intense rap song about friendship, envy, and life’s divergent paths. The song tells the story of two friends who grow up together, only to find themselves on vastly different trajectories. While one friend enjoys a life filled with success, winning the girl of their dreams, traveling abroad, and achieving financial stability, the other grapples with feelings of inadequacy and envy, feeling like a mere shadow in his friend’s spotlight.

Ramdiss’ lyrical prowess shines through in "Anino," as he crafts a vivid story that draws listeners in with its hypnotizing flow. His ability to build tension and create a compelling climax keeps the audience engaged, making them eager to discover how the story unfolds. The song’s unerringly real theme is a reminder to everyone who has ever felt overshadowed or envious of a friend’s success — that envy is a deadly sin for a reason.

“Anino” by Ramdiss featuring Hero, released under Universal Records Philippines, is now available on all streaming platforms.

Singer-songwriter brei releases debut single under Universal Records

Singer-songwriter brei is the newest addition to the ever-growing roster of recording artists under Universal Records. Coming from a family of musicians, brei has been participating in singing competitions ever since she was a young girl, including Idol Philippines back in 2022. And while she did not end up winning the title, that didn’t stop her from pursuing a music career.

brei was signed by Universal Records last year and now she is finally releasing her first-ever single, “Eh Di Pasensya Na,” a pop-rock song loaded with so much feels. It captures the feeling of indifference following a difficult breakup, with lyrics reflecting on the transition from a once beautiful relationship to one filled with regrets: "Kung di ka makalimot, di ko na kasalanan, di sumasagi alaala mo sa’king isipan.” 

"Eh Di Pasensya Na" draws heavy inspiration from the artist's relationship with her ex-partner, as well as the personal experiences of people close to her. Ultimately, the song speaks to anyone who has struggled with a bitter past. “Para talaga ‘to sa mga tao na akala nila okay na both sides pero sobrang dami pa palang sinasabi ng ex nila.” she explains.

Hot Kim Ji Soo 2024 Moments

Kim Ji Soo had a lot of hot moments in 2024. 

In July, he surprised everyone by being part of the GMA show Black Rider as Adrian Park. Apart from showcasing his action skills in the series, he also flexed his physique through a sexy shower scene.

Even when he is performing onstage, there’s no doubt that Kim Ji Soo is one of the sexiest celebrities right now. Last December 6, he performed at a benefit concert in Legazpi City. Singing pop-rock classics and wearing a sexy vest that revealed his biceps, Ji Soo definitely unleashed his inner rock star.

Brands and publications have also taken notice of the South Korean hunk. RANK magazine produced three different covers featuring Ji Soo for their 2024 year-ender special, where he wore stylish pieces that emphasized his sexy chest and arms. He was also featured in the very first issue of fashion magazine VMAN Southeast Asia clad in Louis Vuitton and Adidas Originals by Wales Bonner.

With all his recent achievements and sexy moments, we’re definitely excited to see more of Kim Ji Soo this 2025!

Kim Ji Soo Wins Outstanding Actor at The Ima Wa Ima Asian International Film Festival

South Korean actor Kim Ji Soo has just won the “Outstanding International Actor in Cross-Cultural Series” award at the 2024 Ima Wa Ima Asian International Film Festival. He received the award at the film festival’s Entertainment Special Awards Night held at the  Sumiyoshi Main Hall in Osaka, Japan on December 1. 

This honor recognizes Ji Soo’s outstanding performance in the hit GMA series Abot Kamay Na Pangarap, where his portrayal of a doctor and the love interest of lead star Jillian Ward showcased his acting abilities, chemistry with his partner, and professionalism, no matter where he is.

“I really appreciate GMA Network and my management team in the Philippines, especially ms. Kath for the opportunities given to me that allowed me to grow as an actor.” he said in his acceptance speech. “I couldn't have done this without the support of my family, fans and talented co-stars and the amazing team I work with. Their hard work and dedication made this all possible. And lastly, my wonderful fans and supporters who have always been there along the way. I wouldn't be here today without all of you.”

Edwin Hurry Jr. Sings About Unwavering Love Until The End In “Dulo”

“Para sa prinsesa ng buhay mo.”

Singer-songwriter and content creator Edwin Hurry Jr. releases his vibrant latest single, “Dulo”, a love song that beautifully captures the essence of unwavering commitment. The song, now part of Spotify’s New Music Friday Philippines playlist, is quickly making waves with its irresistible hooks.

The song “Dulo” reflects a deep emotional connection, portraying the story of a person who continues to love their partner through imperfections and challenges.

According to Edwin Hurry Jr., "Ang kantang 'Dulo' ay para sa taong hindi nagsasawang mahalin 'yung partner niya despite sa flaws and imperfections na meron sa kaniya at patuloy niya pa rin itong pinipili hanggang dulo."

He describes it as a dreamy tribute to lasting love—choosing each other day after day, no matter the difficulties. It’s also a great tune that serves as a reminder to hold on tight in good times and bad.

Kim Ji-soo Sets the Record Straight on Past Allegations, Looks Forward To Exciting New Projects

"Life goes on. The actor hopes that the ridiculous stories are corrected."

Ever since his breakout role in Black Rider, South Korean actor Kim Ji-soo has been successfully building a career in the Philippines. Now based in the country, he’s busy with an impressive array of projects. He is set to star in the highly anticipated film Mujigae. He made an appearance at the GMA Gala and grabbed the Red Carpet Scene Stealer award. Recently, he just joined the cast of long-running GMA medical drama Abot Kamay Na Pangarap. In addition to signing a contract with Sparkle GMA Artist Center for his endorsement deals, Ji-soo has launched a new series of vlogs on his YouTube channel ‘Jisoo Road’ and even created a TikTok account, further engaging with his ever-growing fanbase.

Despite these exciting developments, some comments on social media continue to reference past allegations of school violence that had already been addressed. In 2021, Ji-soo faced accusations regarding incidents from his school years, including claims of bullying, which he has since resolved.

New Blood Rapper Carish Unveils “Di Na Ipipilit”

Rising talent Carish, a fresh voice in the rap scene, is making waves with his latest single, "Di Na Ipipilit." This new track showcases Carish's unique ability to blend personal experiences with compelling storytelling on a deep emotional level.

"Di Na Ipipilit" delves into the complex emotions of a relationship teetering on the edge. Carish draws from his own life, expressing the struggle of wanting to implement personal changes yet feeling unable to do so. “Naisulat ko to dahil siya sa sariling nararamdaman at sariling pinagdaan. Ang sinasabi diyan sa kanta Yan Ang gusto Kong ma-apply asking sarili. Diko ma apply sa sarili ko kaya tinago ko nalang sa kanta,” Carish shares, highlighting the introspective nature of his songwriting as a hip-hop artist.

The song paints a vivid picture of a man determined to fight for his relationship despite sensing his partner's growing distance. As it turns out, she is already unfaithful, a truth that remains hidden as he battles to keep their bond intact.

PLUUS Becomes First P-POP Boy Group To Perform At Waterbomb Festival, Has New Song Out Called “SUMMOTION”

PLUUS is back and ready to boost your POPpin’ energy with their new special release, “SUMMOTION.” PLUUS once again delivers a track that will be on repeat in your playlists.

This new single has a house genre and it expresses the hot summer by mixing the Dublin genre's growl bass in the middle of the chorus part. PLUUS’ new song conveys a message to seize the day and grab every opportunity that comes your way. The song is an upbeat and colorful summer-vibe bop that could captivate their fans, SUM and even new listeners to live without hesitation, have fun, and do the things they love freely.

Edwin Hurry Jr.’s New Song “Himlay” Is A Sweet Reminder To Unwind And Rest

Edwin Hurry Jr., the beloved singer-songwriter known for his soothing melodies and serenades, is back with another heartwarming track, “Himlay.” Following the success of his single “Dito Ka Lang,” Edwin continues to captivate listeners with cool voice.

Inspired by the tireless efforts of breadwinners who provide for their families, “Himlay” is a touching reminder of the importance of rest and relaxation. Edwin Hurry Jr. explains, “this song is for those who work tirelessly to support their loved ones. It’s easy to forget to take a break and enjoy some leisure time, but it’s crucial for our well-being.”

While “Himlay” is a tribute to hardworking individuals, it is also a beautiful love song. The lyrics, “Himlay, pahinga naman. Ikaw naman muna,” gently remind the narrator’s loved one to take time to rest and rejuvenate. Edwin’s heartfelt delivery makes this song a soothing anthem for anyone needing a gentle nudge to relax and unwind.

Hear Your New “FAVORITE” Song From Timmy Albert Now!

After the mesmerizing single “SOLO” released last May, Timmy Albert continues to dazzle and spread good vibes with “FAVORITE,” featuring Manu Guzman.

“FAVORITE” signifies a wonderful and vibrant phase of Timmy’s career as a musician with its soulful track that seamlessly blends classic R&B and funk. With the help of his childhood friend Manu, the two bonded in the studio and smoothly intertwined their vocals, creating an irresistible groove that transports listeners to the nostalgic honeymoon stages of love, reminiscent of Timmy’s viral hit "FEELINGS."

Produced by RJ and Ryan Pineda, " FAVORITE " is more than just a love song. Its lush and dynamic production elevates it to a genuine feel-good anthem, designed to uplift spirits and touch the soul. The track pays homage to the vibrant energy and retro vibes of classic R&B, infused with a modern flair that makes it a standout addition to any playlist. 

Better Days Now A Duo, Drops Dreamy Single “Miss Suzy”

Better Days, now a dynamic duo composed of Nim Garcia and Nigel Aboy, is excited to unveil their latest single, “Miss Suzy.” Known for their enchanting melodies and easy-listening tunes, the band continues to captivate audiences with their unique sound. 

“Miss Suzy” delves into the themes of infatuation, yearning, and the whimsical dreams of falling in love. Nim Garcia, who penned the song, drew inspiration from his own college days, recounting a personal experience with a crush he affectionately called "Miss Suzy." The track is characterized by its dreamy ambiance, featuring sweet tones and soothing chords that perfectly capture the essence of longing and romance.

“We feel more locked in and surer about what we do when we're planning, writing, jamming, and performing,” said Better Days. “With the current line-up, we're enjoying the process and growth more and more. It’s a whole lot of fun. For now, our only plan is to keep this setup and continue making music we love.”

“Miss Suzy” is now available on all major streaming platforms.

The Knobs’ “Oh Giliw Ko” Is The New Ultimate Song To Add On Your Wedding Playlist

The Knobs just released their latest single, "Oh Giliw Ko” which is an enchanting love song captures the essence of deep affection and the joy of commitment towards your big day with the person you want to spend the rest of your life with.

"Oh Giliw Ko" is a pop-rock track that tells the story of two people deeply in love who decide to marry each other. The song beautifully encapsulates the emotions and excitement of tying the knot with the person you cherish most in the world. Written by the band’s talented vocalist and bassist, Jayr Corre, the song carries a personal touch, as Jayr penned it for his own wedding.

Gloc-9 Proves He’s A Master Storyteller Through Music In 10-track “Sari-Sari Story" Album Produced By Raymund Marasigan

Filipino rap icon Gloc-9 is back with a brand new album, “Sari-Sari Story,” produced by the illustrious pillar of OPM, Raymund Marasigan. This remarkable album, recorded in just over six weeks before Gloc-9 embarked on an Australia concert tour, is proof of the rapper’s unparalleled talent and dedication to his craft of creating songs that will touch lives.

“Sari-Sari Story” is a collection of ten tracks, each one a narrative gem that showcases Gloc-9’s masterful storytelling. The album’s release strategy was as dynamic as its content, with three tracks dropping during the first week of June and another three following in the subsequent week. This staggered release allowed fans to savor each story, building anticipation and excitement for the full album which dropped this June 21st on all digital streaming platforms.

Gloc-9, whose real name is Aristotle Pollisco, shared that the inspiration for “Sari-Sari Story” came from the multitude of stories he has heard over the years and his own playful imagination. He was able to write so many songs in the past, but this album felt special. It’s like a patchwork of different tales and characters that he came across or imagined.

Begging For That Someone To Stay? Edwin Hurry Jr. Drops Catchy R&B Track "Dito Ka Lang"

Edwin Hurry Jr. has unveiled his latest single "Dito Ka Lang" under Universal Records Philippines. The track, now playlisted at #9 on Spotify's "Fresh Finds Philippines," is already making waves with its irresistible blend of R&B vibes and heartfelt storytelling. It follows the release of his own version of “Sana Ngayong Pasko” last December 2023. 

"Dito Ka Lang" resonates with audiences through its infectious melodies and upbeat rhythm, despite its introspective lyrics. Edwin Hurry Jr. explains, "I chose the R&B genre because it's one of the most popular styles among listeners today. The melodies are catchy, and even though the lyrics may be bittersweet, the song's upbeat nature makes it easy to sing along."

At its core, "Dito Ka Lang" delves into the complexities of relationships, portraying a narrative where one person pleads for their partner to stay despite the challenges they face together.

“The song is about a person who begs for someone to stay despite the struggles, and problems that they're facing in their relationship and he/she still always chooses to save the relationship they built together,” he states.

Parokya Ni Edgar’s “Your Song” Surpasses 100 Million Streams On Spotify!

It seems a lot of listeners find themselves coming back to Parokya Ni Edgar’s gem of a track “Your Song” because right now, it just surpassed 100 million streams on Spotify and still continues to rack up more streams.

The song, which was off the band’s 2003 record Bigotilyo is PNE’s first song to ever hit the said Spotify milestone. Time and time again, the band has been very thankful for all the love this simple love song of theirs has been getting over the years. 

What’s also surprising is the fact that “Your Song” was never released as an official single by the band during their Bigotilyo era. The song, clocking in at less than three minutes and was written and sung by guitarist Gab Chee Kee organically rose to popularity during the mid-2000s. Since the song gained massive mainstream popularity, Parokya Ni Edgar decided to include “Your Song” on their Inuman Sessions Vol. 2 setlist back in 2012. 

Donny Pangilinan released a surprise treat to his fans -- his latest single, "Wings"

Donny started the month of October with a big surprise treat to his ever-so-supportive fans as he released his single, “Wings”. With assurance and love comes hope and comfort. In this song, Donny promises a life that is better and gives hope to a person who cannot seem to see the brighter days ahead of her. It is a song of hope that is very much relevant to all of us as we go through dark days in the middle of the pandemic.

In 2019, he was nominated as the New Movie Actor of the Year for the movie “Walwal”. Other than his various hosting stints, vlogs, movies, TV shows and product endorsements, Donny has been creating pop ballads since he signed under Universal Records back in 2017, thereon having been nominated for various awards. He released his single “Green Light” in 2018 which ranked #5 on iTunes PH Chart and his self-titled debut EP the following year. 

Donny Pangilinan is known to explore ventures that will test his strengths and will allow him to discover more about himself. He stars in the popular Teen RomCom TV series entitled “He’s Into Her” with co-star Belle Mariano. May it be through hosting, acting or singing, Donny continues to make an impact in the entertainment industry in the Philippines and in other countries.

Catch Donny Pangilinan's "Wings” now streaming on iTunes, Apple Music, Deezer, Youtube and Spotify.

17 Year-old Singer-songwriter FERN. Releases His Debut E.P.

Wunderkind musician Fern. has launched his self-titled debut E.P. ‘Fern.’ last March 30, 2018.

The 17 year-old singer-songwriter-producer having only been active on the scene for a few months has already garnered multiple achievements. His first single ‘Into You,’ debuted and stayed at #1 on the Spotify Philippines Top 50 Viral Chart for one week, and has garnered over 1.5 million plays on Spotify. ‘Into You,’ along with his latest single ‘Wanna Dance With You’ have both been included by Spotify in playlists in countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines. On top of this, Fern. has been featured on Scout Magazine’s 'Teens Under 18 To Watch Out For In 2018,’ and has already been given opportunities to collaborate with young OPM artists such as Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose, TALA, and Claudia Barretto.

Neocolors Signs With Universal Records

One of the biggest names in the OPM scene, Neocolours, will finally release new songs this year. To jumpstart this awaited music launch, the band signed up today with its record label, Universal Records. Universal Records’ top executives led by VP Ramon Chuaying , General Manager, Kathleen Dy-Go and Operations Manager, Peter Chan welcomed the members of the band during the contract signing.

Neocolours' songs have been a mainstay of many Filipino listener's playlist. Their songs such as Maybe, Kasalanan Ko Ba, Hold On, Say You'll Never Go and Tuloy Pa Rin have transcended generational barriers and repeatedly re-recorded by some of the country's top recording artists. With the release of new songs starting this March, the band hopes to continue this artistic and musical tradition. Aside from the completion of a new album, Neocolours' other music activities includes a 30th year anniversary show at the Music Museum on April 28, as well as a national tour for the rest of the year.

Christian Bautista Launches Much Awaited album “Kapit” on September 29 at the Music Museum!

“This album is a journey to find my next music path, a challenge to write more songs and to continue writing songs for others,” revealed Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista, as he was in the process of concocting yet another masterpiece.

This September 29, Christian Bautista is poised to unveil his 7th album under Universal Records entitled Kapit, duly named after his famed song. The Kapit album launch, happening at the Music Museum, will also serve as a concert treat for his listeners. For only PHP 500, fans can get their hands on Kapit while watching Christian Bautista and renowned performers like The CompanY, plus other surprise guests, live!

The single, Kapit’s success, bolstered by constant radio airplays and a spot as Koreanovela Innocent Defendant’s theme song, led Stages and Universal Records to produce the event for the OPM icon’s latest album. “[Kapit is] a song about holding on despite the many hardships of any relationship,” shares Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista.