ALAMAT Ignites A New Era with DESTINO
From upbeat tracks to yearning love songs, ALAMAT never fails to embed Filipino culture and storytelling into every track of DESTINO.
Words Mian Centeno
Photos courtesy of ALAMAT
November 29, 2025
After a year off the radar, ALAMAT reignites their creative fire with DESTINO, a comeback album that cements their identity as cultural innovators within the music industry. Taneo, Mo, Jao, Tomas, R-Ji, and Alas confidently step into a new era, showcasing not only their vocals and dance expertise but also their growing strength as songwriters and producers, building the album with intention and bold delivery.
The album opens with their pre-release lead single LuzViMinda, a roaring declaration of their multilingual roots and refusal to dilute Filipino identity in modern pop. Its music video mirrors their energy and pride, getting everyone streaming and dancing to its angsty beat.
In Sinigang, short for “sinisigaw hanggang ngayon,” the group leans into vulnerability, likening bittersweet longing to the warmth and sourness of the beloved dish. It’s a gentle shift from swagger to sincerity, proving their versatility without losing their distinctly Filipino flavor.
ALAMAT’s chosen favorite, Hapag, is seductive yet respectful, anchored in Filipino symbolism, connecting the dining table as a space for commitment and connection. With Tomas’ flute, R-Ji’s guitar, and Alas’ meticulous production, the song combines upbeat melodies with heartfelt lyricism.
Three tracks were crafted with Sweden-based The Kennel, yet ALAMAT’s fingerprints remain unmistakable, keeping their artistry grounded in sincerity and narrative depth in Pagbigyan (Bad Decisions), Pangako (Sa Puso Mo), and Don’t Wanna Dance.
Pagbigyan (Bad Decisions) strips away swagger, diving headfirst into irresistible temptation and capturing the thrill of doing wrong for love. Painting reckless choices as passionate, magnetic, and undeniably human, the track showcases love’s power.
Slowing the pace, Pangako (Sa Puso Mo) shifts the album toward tender sincerity, emphasizing emotional support and trust. The track embraces vulnerability, reminding listeners that burdens are meant to be shared and that leaning on someone is both comforting and brave.
Navigating the tension of nostalgia and unresolved feelings with a smooth, stylish groove, Don’t Wanna Dance negotiates the pull of past love. This polished, groovy aesthetic questions whether hearts can ultimately reconcile.
Behind the scenes, ALAMAT embraces both flaws and finesse as part of their craft. “Baby namin ‘yung songs,” Jao says, capturing how deeply personal this album is to all six members.
Alas admits that the album may not appeal to everyone, but he sees that as natural—and even freeing. As a producer, he emphasizes the importance of reviving traditional Filipino instruments, ensuring they remain heard, valued, and remembered.
Tomas emphasizes that their passion for music-making remains unchanged, while Mo sets the tone for what comes next: “Start na ‘to ng mga songs na kami talaga ‘yung gumawa, at marami pa silang aasahan.”
DESTINO marks a starting point, signaling a future shaped by their own hands.
Closing with Hiraya and Sa’yo Pa Rin Uuwi, the album cements ALAMAT’s legacy as one of the most authentic forces in P-pop, proving once again that when they return, they return with something legendary. Originally planned for an earlier release, DESTINO arrives at the perfect moment—polished by growth and sharpened by reflection.
