Yesterday, February 24, 2026, Sony Music Publishing (SMP) launched its new flagship office in the Philippines (SMP PH), and appointed Universal Music Group Philippines’ former Head of Digital Business Stephanie Ortiz as its General Manager. This move has been described as “a strategic expansion dedicated to the development and promotion of Filipino songwriters both locally and around the world,” according to a press release.

At the launch event held at Gallery MiraNila in Quezon City, which was attended by music industry personalities and members of the media, SMP President (International) Guy Henderson said, “I am thrilled that we have opened our company in the Philippines. The Philippines has an exciting domestic market, and with music traveling around the world as never before, there is huge worldwide potential for Filipino songwriters. With Stephanie Ortiz and her team and Sony Music Publishing’s creative and administrative reach, the global opportunities for Filipino writers are limitless.”

“Stephanie Ortiz’s appointment as General Manager of Sony Music Publishing Philippines marks a pivotal moment for our organization and the Filipino music landscape,” added Roslyn Pineda, who had recently been appointed as SMP’s new President, Asia. “Her extensive experience and deep understanding of the industry will drive innovation and growth, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for creativity in the region. I am confident her leadership will enhance our presence and help connect Filipino artistry with audiences around the world.”

Also present during the event were two of the country’s most prominent songwriters today, SB19‘s Pablo and Ben&Ben‘s Paolo Benjamin Guico, who spoke to the media about their extensive songwriting processes, and why there is still an urgent need for education to the public about songwriters’ rights and how they can monetize their craft — a concern that both SMP and SMP PH promise to address through events, programs, and even technology in the coming months.

“It is an honor to champion Filipino songwriters, from legendary voices to emerging talent,” said Ortiz, who also served as Head of Label for digital music distribution giant Believe Music. “We look forward to bringing their music to the international stage, connecting their stories and creativity with audiences everywhere and supporting their continued growth and success.”

Jason Caballa

Jason Caballa

Managing Editor

Currently the Managing Editor at Billboard Philippines, Jason Caballa's career in music journalism has spanned decades, having most notably served as Music Editor of PULP Magazine and then Associate Editor for the now-defunct Pinoytuner.com.

He has also contributed music articles for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Rogue Magazine, Mabuhay Magazine, and other print publications from as early as his college years. After shifting to advertising as a copywriter in several agencies, he has returned to documenting local and international music with the establishment of Billboard Philippines in 2023.

Having been a musician himself in Manila's rock and indie scenes since the late '90s, Jason is often inclined towards featuring bands and recording artists who come from that world, as his firsthand experiences allow him to come up with insightful angles and questions for his subjects, resulting in unique and in-depth stories.

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