Yeng Constantino is here to stay — but this time, as an independent artist

After nearly two decades gracing the music scene, Filipino pop-rock icon Yeng Constantino is embarking on a thrilling new chapter: becoming a fully independent artist. This bold move, 18 years into a career filled with chart-topping hits, signals a significant shift for the beloved singer-songwriter.

Yeng first captivated audiences as the champion of the 2006 reality talent show *Pinoy Dream Academy*. Her debut album, *Salamat* (2007), instantly propelled her into the spotlight, with its title track becoming an enduring anthem for Teacher's Day celebrations across the Philippines. Following hits like "Chinito," "Ikaw," and "Hawak Kamay" further cemented her status as a music industry staple, all while operating under the wing of major record labels.

So, what prompted this monumental leap? Yeng credits the rising wave of young artists independently releasing their music. Inspired by their autonomy, she felt a strong pull to try it herself. While acknowledging the stark difference from the extensive machinery of large labels, she describes the transition to her "small, intimate team" as a different kind of challenge, but one that is "very, very exciting." For a self-proclaimed adventure-seeker, it was time to step out of her comfort zone and embrace the adrenaline rush of a new creative project, believing her fans would feel that excitement too.

This new trajectory means Yeng is diving headfirst into the business side of music, a realm previously handled by her labels. She's learning the intricacies of marketing, promotion, and even publishing her own songs from the ground up. Admitting she had "zero knowledge" about aspects like uploading music to platforms like Spotify, Yeng remains optimistic, stating, "But you will learn along the way." It's worth noting she's no stranger to the creative production process, having been involved in producing her own music since her third album.

Beyond the technicalities, Yeng is now completely hands-on with budgeting and resource management. She shared an example of maximizing her glam team's services: heading straight from an *ASAP* taping to her cover art shoot for her new single, "Lumulutang Nahuhulog," saving on additional hair and makeup costs. Her involvement extends to every detail, from helping set up studio lights to meticulously ensuring every shot is perfect. This level of dedication, she notes, is "1000% present" across the entire process, a first in her extensive career.

This transformative journey marks a fulfilling new chapter, not just for Yeng Constantino herself and the remarkable legacy she's built, but also for the loyal fanbase who have championed her every step of the way.