Sony Music Publishing launches Philippine arm

It’s no longer in doubt that P-Pop and OPM are making major global waves. Acts like SB19 and Ben&Ben have helped transform Filipino music into a cultural force with international relevance, earning global chart placements and awards in recent years.

Their success underscores the momentum behind Original Pilipino Music and the growing appetite worldwide for influences from the Philippines.

On 24 February, the official launch of Sony Music Publishing Philippines marked a major milestone in the industry’s evolution, signaling a stronger push to equip Filipino songwriters with the tools and platforms needed to compete globally.

Held at Gallery MiraNila in Quezon City, the launch gathered top executives from Sony Music Publishing’s global and Asian offices, including Stephanie Ortiz, newly appointed general manager of SMP PH, and Roslyn Pineda, president of Sony Music Publishing Asia.

Prominent Filipino songwriters also attended the event, including Pablo of SB19 and Paolo Benjamin Guico of Ben&Ben, who joined a panel discussion on their creative journeys and the future of Filipino songwriting.

In remarks to the press, Sony Music executives stressed that the launch is not merely symbolic but strategic. They said the initiative aims to educate songwriters about music publishing, rights management and earning potential, addressing a long-standing knowledge gap in the industry. It also seeks to help creators protect and manage their works in an increasingly complex global market and to build a community that connects Filipino composers and producers with international networks and opportunities.

According to Stephanie Ortiz, the initiative is a chance to champion Filipino talent “from legendary voices to emerging talent” and ensure their stories reach global audiences.

Guy Henderson, president of Sony Music Publishing International, noted that the current era allows music to come from anywhere in the world, even songs deeply rooted in local identity, underscoring how globally competitive Filipino songcraft can be.

During the panel discussion, both Pablo and Paolo spoke about creativity, purpose and how a focus on message and craft defines the songs that endure.

Their insights reflected the broader mission of SMP PH: not only to commercialize Filipino music but to celebrate and elevate the voices behind the songs.

By strengthening education, support systems and access to international markets, the new venture aims to position Filipino songwriters to compete and thrive on the world stage.