Signed and Sealed, Huge Strides for Filipino Music: OPM Formally Signs Partnership Agreement With PRM

"The more information [artists have], the better they can navigate their music journeys."

- Gab Cabangon

Josh Credo, Candice Lima-Del Rosario, Francis Buen, Ashley Benitez, and Nash Ramos

Behind exhilarating and passionate Filipino musical performances are decades of groundwork laid by collaborations, all propelled and sustained by shared goals. And while such efforts are commonly seen in entities of more similar natures, many of the outstanding upshots happen when unique sectors align.  

Building Music-Driven Relations 

On August 20, 2025, two organizations with notable ambitions for the PH music industry finally materialized their months-long collaboration into an official one. Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-Aawit (OPM), represented by its Executive Director Gab Cabangon, signs a partnership agreement with Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM), represented by its Head of Licensing Francis Buen.  

Francis Buen, PRM Head of Licensing, and Gab Cabangon, Executive Director of OPM

OPM, established back 1986, continues to be the leading organization for Filipino professional singers. Now, Gab Cabangon leads OPM with unrivaled dedication, sharing just how much music is culturally ingrained and how it “makes us proud as a community and as a nation.” As reflected in their activities, such as their successful execution of Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino (LMP 2025), OPM assigns priority to inclusivity and artist recognition, and takes measures to promote such.  

On the other hand, PRM, albeit a younger organization, stands as one of the fastest-growing collective management organizations (CMOs) in the country. Accredited in 2021 by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), it has celebrated multiple feats in its 4-year industry tenure. Last April, it was recognized as IPOPHL’s notable IP Partner at the Gawad Yamang Isip Awards Night.  

Among many things, this strengthens intra-industry relations; however, most importantly, it is a precedent for acknowledging and rewarding the demanding work that comes with creating music.  

A Partnership Months in the Making 

Early in the year, PRM held its first roadshow with OPM. In July, PRM was graciously appointed by OPM as its promotional partner for Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino 2025. The celebration spanned a month and provided multiple gig opportunities and knowledge-building sessions to both OPM and non-OPM members alike. Two of these sessions were personally attended by PRM, namely: (1) LMP25 Music Talk Series and (2) LMP25 Talk Series – IP Rights for Performers.  

In an interview with Gab, he shared a few things he feels excited about with the partnership. First, he highlighted the pertinent information that PRM can provide to OPM members. “The more information [they have], the better they can navigate their music journey,” he emphasized. It’s important to note that although music is predominantly a creative pursuit, its economic aspect should not be neglected; music, after all, is both an art and a business, as Gab would also underscore.  

Finances considered, Gab shared that a PRM membership, should an OPM member qualify, would be mostly beneficial to independent artists in sustaining their music careers. He also recognized the need for proper recognition and appreciation, especially for those who may need a little boost in their reach. Given the opportunity, PRM does its best to extend any help it can provide to music stakeholders—actions driven by the organization’s core values.  

When asked about this partnership possibly making waves, Gab expresses his hope for it to do so. Although there is uncertainty about the extent it will be disruptive, he spotlighted future collaborations as formal partners with the same goal, “... at the end of the day, our goal is to really elevate Filipino music.” PRM echoes OPM’s ambitions for the PH music landscape. While OPM seeks to tap professional singers of diverse backgrounds and provide them opportunities, PRM, on the other hand, works to protect the rights of Filipino musicians. Both undeniably strive to promote Filipino music excellence.  

The Musical Roadmap, A Message to Singers 

Gab further shared OPM’s plans for the coming years. Alongside upsizing LMP’s celebration, he noted reaching out to artists outside Metro Manila. “I would love us to also get more participation and reach out to artists from VisMin region or South Luzon kasi ang dami nating talented na mga artists, songwriters from all over the country.” Truly, inclusivity runs central to OPM’s values.  

With its freshly minted partnership with OPM, PRM also looks forward to the ventures the organizations can undertake together. This year, PRM will host its annual distribution event and recognize those who have advanced its goals. It will also continue to strengthen the relations it has built over the years, all while building new ones to prosper with.  

In concluding his interview, Gab imparted a message for artists hoping to flourish in their craft. “Learn as much as you can and keep an open mind,” he reminded. “Enter the industry with the intention of creating really good music and try to understand how to navigate your journey.” Moreover, Gab did not fail to mention the need to promote Filipino music and one’s own identity as an artist. He also noted the importance of joining organizations that can represent performers, much like OPM itself and PRM. 

After several feats accomplished with OPM, now fully realized as a formal partnership, PRM shares this proud moment with the music industry. PRM always believes in the huge strides made possible through joint efforts and similar aspirations---after all, there is nothing more impactful than bodies coming together and soaring to great heights.  

To the excellence of Filipino music! 

Want to know more about how to protect your rights as a performer? Visit prm.com.ph or email us at info@prm.com.ph