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Sponge Cola teams up with powerhouse vocalist Gigi De Lana for the first time in “Naghihilom."

OPM band Sponge Cola and singer Gigi De Lana are joining forces for the first time in their upcoming collaborative single, “Naghihilom,” which was released on Friday, march 6, across major streaming platforms. An official music video also premiered on the same day.

The track marks a milestone moment for both acts, bringing together two distinct voices in the OPM scene.

“Naghihilom,” which translates to “healing,” explores the quiet and complicated aftermath of heartbreak. The song reflects on the process of confronting pain long enough to understand it—before eventually allowing it to soften.

Anchored by Sponge Cola's signature alternative rock sound, the track unfolds through textured instrumentation and a slow-burning arrangement.

Within that space, De Lana delivers a restrained yet deeply emotional vocal performance that expands the song's emotional depth while maintaining its vulnerability.

For De Lana, the song made an immediate impression, even as its meaning gradually unfolded for her.

“When I first heard it, I immediately felt the depth. It was heavy,” she shared in a statement.

“To be honest, the first time I listened to it, I didn't fully understand the gravity of it. But when I replayed it a few more times, it slowly revealed itself to me.”

The singer also shared how much she enjoyed working with the band.

“From the first meeting pa lang for the song, I felt safe. I felt welcomed. Walang pressure, just pure collaboration and good energy. Sponge Cola is so easy to work with. The environment was light, creative, and inspiring. The whole experience felt amazing. Honestly, ayoko nga umalis agad kapag kasama ko sila.”

Sponge Cola and Gigi de Lana during their recording session. Courtesy: Sponge Cola

Meanwhile, Sponge Cola's frontman, Yael Yuzon, hopes listeners will connect with the song in their own way.

“I want people to feel what they need to feel, to remember or forget, and hopefully sing with us,” he says. “And working with Gigi, andali.”

The accompanying music video was filmed during the song's first-ever live performance at a major music festival last January, giving fans who were present an exclusive preview of the track.

The collaboration bridges two generations of OPM listeners: Sponge Cola, long known for their emotive anthems and enduring presence in the local rock scene, and De Lana, whose powerful vocals and commanding live performances have helped her build a strong digital following and a new wave of fans.

Meanwhile, take a look at these Kapuso-Kapamilya collaborations: