For any Filipino, the name Moonstar88 immediately evokes a specific kind of nostalgia. Whether it’s the bittersweet pining of “Torete”—which celebrated its landmark 25th anniversary last year—or the relatable heartache of “Migraine,” the band’s discography has become a permanent fixture in the Philippines’ karaoke culture. Despite the inevitable ebbs and flows of the music industry and shifts within the group, Moonstar88 has managed a rare feat: remaining deeply relevant while continuing to touch the hearts of Filipinos across multiple generations.

This month, the band officially ushered in a bold new chapter. Members Maysh Baay, Bon Sundiang, and Herbert Hernandez reached a significant career milestone by signing with EMI Records Philippines, a sub-label of UMG Philippines. The official signing ceremony was a celebratory affair, attended by Soupstar Entertainment head Darwin Hernandez and UMG Philippines Country Manager Enzo Valdez.

This partnership marks a strategic homecoming and a fresh start for the OPM legends as they join the global UMG family.The excitement surrounding this signing is paired with an ambitious creative roadmap.

The band is set to release two albums under the label, with the first, a 13-track album slated for release later this year.Fans won’t have to wait long for a taste of this new era, as their latest single, “Goma” is scheduled to drop on May 27, 2026. This release serves as the vanguard for a collection of music that promises to honor their legacy while pushing their sonic boundaries.The creation of the upcoming album was a deeply collaborative and “organic” process.

Guitarist Herbert Hernandez revealed that the project was a community effort, featuring contributions from longtime friends and collaborators. The tracklist includes a song penned by Led Tuyay and four tracks written by Darwin Hernandez, with Rye Sarmiento taking the helm as producer. According to the band, the “stars finally aligned” for these collaborations, creating a synergy that defines the record’s identity.

Frontwoman Maysh Baay describes the new material as a delicate balance between evolution and tradition. With the resources of EMI Records Philippines, the band has been able to experiment with fresh sounds and modern production. However, she emphasizes that the “core DNA” of Moonstar88 remains intact. While their diverse musical influences naturally seep into the writing, the studio process ensures that every song is filtered through the unique perspective that only these three members can provide.

For drummer Bon Sundiang, the heart of the album lies in its storytelling. He describes the recording sessions as a “music bootcamp” held at their studio, where the environment was conducive to raw, honest creativity. The songs emerged piece by piece from collective experiences and shared stories, ensuring that the final product feels authentic rather than manufactured.

As they gear up for these releases, the band’s schedule is packed with international performances. 2026 is shaping up to be a whirlwind year as Moonstar88 joins fellow OPM icons Silent Sanctuary and Hale for a Canadian Tour this May. Not stopping there, the band also confirmed they will be heading to the United States for a tour in October. From local karaoke machines to international stages, Moonstar88 continues to prove that their music is, and always will be, a vital part of the Filipino culture.