Darren Espanto is no stranger to heartbreak, and we’re pretty sure that there’s a whole lot about it on his new album, titled Ikaw Pa Rin.
The latest record from the renowned vocalist was just released today on July 4, 2025, and celebrates his eleven years within the Philippine music industry. On the album, Darren is at his most vulnerable and candid, singing his heart out to several anthems of heartbreak, growing up, and coming to terms with nostalgia.
Ikaw Pa Rin comprises a total of thirteen tracks, including the previously released singles “Bibitaw Na,” “Hanggang Kailan,” “Iyo,” “Miss,” and “Paalam Muna Sandali,” alongside his brand new collaboration with Belle Mariano –– titled “Dati.” This record also marks Darren’s first album since 2017’s D’s Christmas and the deluxe edition of Be With Me — giving audiences and fans an intimate look at his evolution as both a performer and individual over these past few years
Star Music’s announcement post for the album gave a brief snippet of what to expect from the album’s sonic palette, which features an eclectic mix of upbeat synthpop and electropop, which serves as quite a deviation from his ballad-heavy sound. Aside from his singles that are included in the album, Darren also released this year’s theme song for the popular reality show Pinoy Big Brother with the song “Sikat Ang Pinoy,” which featured Julie Anne San Jose. “Paalam Muna Sandali” also served as the eviction theme song for the same season.
Just recently, Espanto was present at Billboard Philippines‘ Women in Music: The Executive Edition event, having served as the presenter for PARI President and entertainment lawyer Atty. Marivic Benedicto as she accepted her award as the Music Rights Executive of the Year.
Listen to Darren Espanto’s Ikaw Pa Rin in its entirety below: