They say the best way to start the new year is with open arms and a heart ready for new beginnings. It’s never too late to start over, even if the previous year left you feeling a little heavy or worn down. Luckily, there’s music that can truly uplift your spirit — bringing in cheers, smiles, and the comforting sense of hope and possibility that sets the perfect intro for a fresh start.
That’s why it’s only fitting to celebrate with dazzling fireworks that light up the night sky, to treasure precious moments with family and friends, and to set the tone for the year ahead with music. After all, music becomes the soundtrack to our new beginnings, carrying both memories of the past and the hopes of what lies ahead.
To help you kick things off, Billboard Philippines has rounded up seven OPM songs you can blast as you ring in the new year — from catchy pop hits by BINI and SB19 to heartfelt tunes from IV OF SPADES and Cup of Joe.
“Pag-Ibig Fortune Cookie” — MNL48
Over the years, MNL48 has gone through significant changes in its lineup. But despite this, the pioneers of the modern P-pop idol scene have retained a steady fanbase that continues to support them. Years later, their most popular track, “Pag-Ibig Fortune Cookie,” remains a staple of the group’s performance repertoire. It has experienced a resurgence on social media thanks to platforms like TikTok, allowing new generations of listeners to rediscover this fan-favorite song. With its spirited chorus and upbeat energy, the track carries an empowering message that radiates positivity throughout — making it a perfect soundtrack for ringing in the new year.
“Sandali” — Cup of Joe
“Sandali” needs no waiting to earn a spot on your on-repeat playlist. The pop-rock single from “Multo” hitmakers Cup of Joe continues the band’s dynamic repertoire and marks their seventh anniversary. The track showcases the group’s signature guitar-driven pop-rock sound and, for the first time, features vocals from all band members, particularly on the bridge. This heartfelt ode to their fanbase, the Joewahs, is perfect for celebratory moments, uplifting the spirits of everyone embracing new beginnings and moving forward with the lessons, growth, and experiences of the past.
“Shooting for the Stars” — SB19
SB19‘s “Shooting for the Stars” is a motivational track from their Simula at Wakas EP. Its inspiring lyrics, centered on ambition, perseverance, and chasing dreams, make it a perfect anthem for welcoming a fresh start. As the title suggests, the Kings of P-pop deliver a message about taking a chance at what one can achieve, and there’s no better time to start than at the reset of a new year, with the opportunity to make it even better. This feel-good anthem is ideal for uplifting spirits, setting goals, and celebrating the courage to aim high in the new year.
“Hiraya” — ALAMAT
“Hiraya,” a Filipino word that translates to “fruit of one’s hopes, dreams, and aspirations,” delivers an inspiring message from the moment you listen. With its blend of funk, synth-pop, and bubblegum pop, ALAMAT brings a vibrant energy to the track. In the chorus, “Ikaw ang bahaghari / Na tanging naglalapat ng kulay sa aking mundo” (“You are the rainbow / The one who paints color into my world”), the lyrics capture how we can start the new year right, one full of color and hope.
“Mundo” — IV OF SPADES
To this day, “Mundo” is still IV OF SPADES‘ most celebrated track and continues to resonate with both longtime fans and casual listeners. Featuring impeccable vocals by Unique, solid bass lines from Zild, electrifying guitar riffs from Blaster, and dynamic drumming from Badjao, the song explores the idea of finding home and one’s world in a lover, while painting a vivid picture of embracing life without worry. Even years after its release, the band, performing together as a full unit, gave the song renewed appreciation with sold-out, unforgettable shows at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“Bikini” — BINI
BINI marked a new era with their FLAMES EP, featuring tracks like “Shagidi,” “First Luv,” and “Paruparo.” Among them is “Bikini,” a pop track that is made to be blasted on the beach during summer and amped up to a tee. This song from the Nation’s Girl Group is a perfect addition to any playlist celebrating self-love and empowerment — qualities we can carry forward as we step into a new era in our lives. Additionally, the song has inspired dance challenges on TikTok, showcasing the group’s sound that has resonated deeply with Filipino listeners, as embodied in tracks like their beloved “Pantropiko.”
“Tulala” — VVINK
A P-pop girl group on the rise, VVINK made an energetic and exciting first impression in the P-pop scene with their debut single, “Tulala.” While the song captures the feeling of being stunned or dazed by young love, it also shines as a bubblegum pop-heavy track, packed with heavy-hitters in a bop like bright synths, punchy guitar riffs, and catchy lyrics. Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or just vibing with friends, the song creates an uplifting backdrop that anyone can enjoy just in time for the new year.