‘Liwanag’ and Legacy: Sponge Cola Finds New Light in Keeping it Real
For over two decades, Sponge Cola has remained a powerful force in the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) scene. Known to deliver emotionally charged anthems that have stood the test of time, the beloved Filipino band has carved out a legacy marked by authenticity, musical evolution, and lyrical depth. From the timeless ache of their breakthrough track “Jeepney” down to the fiery grit of “Bitiw” and the infectious energy of “Tuliro,” Sponge Cola has delivered a string of chart-topping singles and acquired several accolades and platinum records that continue to redefine longevity in the local music scene.
The band kicked off 2025 by exciting their fans with a double drop treat: the new single “Liwanag” and a reimagined take on their 2022 song, “Laman ng Panaginip,” which has now been renamed to “LNP.”
The Beat Manila sat down with the band’s lead vocalist, Yael Yuzon, to talk about the new release and how the band continues to uphold their creative identity while evolving with the times.
Sponge Cola on Composition and Evolution
The band has been known for a string of hits, mainly rock anthems that have defined the 2000s and have become staples in OPM playlists. We’ve heard heartbreak songs, romantic ballads, and hype anthems that have made up the soundtracks of many Filipinos’ lives.
When asked how “Liwanag” came to be and how this summer vibe anthem fit into their colorful discography, Yael told us how it was a product of wanting to write something that captured a particular moment.
“I was talking to my wife one morning about the idea of music being a time capsule of a given moment, and we both realized how we don’t have a lot of tropical island songs despite living on a tropical island in the middle of the Pacific. So, I went on to write something light, something that could be played while enjoying the sunset.”
He also added how the composition process was quick and efficient, and how once they “nailed the beat, everything just fell in place.”
“Liwanag” is an upbeat romantic track that captures the bright energy of the summer season. You can feel it from the moment the bright sound of guitars tickles your ears at the beginning, making you instantly feel like you’re in a car about to go on a road trip. The lyrics radiate optimism and warmth as the singer exults in the presence of a person who brings light into their world. The lines speak of someone bringing clarity and meaning, transforming “Dating may kulang (what was once missing something)" into a world made whole.
The infectious chorus and the poetic imagery woven through the lyrics, coupled with the energetic rock rhythms and Yael’s unfiltered vocals, give listeners a sound that is fresh while still undeniably being Sponge Cola.
As the song was inspired by summer getaways, we asked Yael if he had any memorable trips that had helped bring the song to life.
“There was that summer between high school and college when we just decided to take a bus to Baguio. We explored a bit, ate good food, and did some ukay-ukay (thrifting) hunting. Zero plans, really,” he shared. “Even from a production standpoint, we were pretty chill with our parts. Nothing abrasive, everything suave, no overthinking. Kind of like that road trip from our teenage years.”
Speaking of road trips, Yael also shared that his ideal vacation is anywhere with friends and childhood music in the background. He also mentioned a surprising and unusual request whenever he goes on one, which is to have his private bathroom! He also recommended a great place to visit, which he described as one of his favorite places in the country.
“Maremegmeg Beach is my fave. Perfect balance of scenic without being stiff or daunting. Everyone feels welcome. You can find cheap beer nearby or a fancy meal if you want,” he told The Beat Manila. “I’m also cool with Batangas beaches. Grill some pork, fish, and chicken. Boom!”
The band’s other release, “LNP” may be familiar to most fans, considering it had been originally released in 2022 as “Laman ng Panaginip.” The track began as a live session experiment, which evolved into a fully realized studio version, transforming it into a new version with a distinct arrangement and vibe. We suppose we could describe this version as more anthemic, turning what once was a personal statement into a collective cry.
“Most songs start in the studio, then you play them live,” Yael said, explaining how the new version came to be. “This kind of evolved onstage while playing it live. I love this upbeat version. Awesome how it all happened in reverse. That’s new for us, and 'new' is great for a band of two decades. We were pleasantly surprised.”
To mark this unique evolution, the band also dropped a heartfelt music video showcasing behind-the-scenes moments from their recent tour. The video featured electrifying stage performances as well as candid fan interactions that offer a glimpse into the band’s connection with their audience and with each other.
The frontman also shared a memorable moment with their fans, whose support has pulled them through some of their darkest times. “During the pandemic, we would play these live online shows. We felt the need to do it as we had to be musicians. So in a way, the audience being supportive of these shows kind of carried us through the dehumanizing feeling of not having purpose.”
The fans have indeed been supportive and encouraging throughout their careers, which goes to show how their music transcends time, reflecting the band’s endurance and ability to evolve with changing music tastes, all the while without losing their identity. As to how they sustain this, Yael simply stated, “When you adhere to your truth, you’re good. Every song out there can be reduced to notes and words. So we just do what we do and it all works out.”
Since forming in 2002, the band has borne witness to inevitable changes and shifts in the music industry. However, they have remained steadfast in their purpose and continued to create music that not only caters to varying audiences but still remains true to what they stand for as a group. Sponge Cola has shown time and time again that despite their evolving sound, it’s possible to sustain both relevance and heart.
Yael had also mentioned how the band has become more disciplined through the years and how they’ve also pushed to explore other genres and music styles, but had chosen not to intentionally make those shifts and instead incorporate certain aspects whenever needed to push meaning. The vocalist also expressed his thoughts on how the OPM industry has changed throughout their career.
“It’s no longer one movement, it’s a bunch of things happening at once. The audience has become more accepting and the artists have become more open,” he stated before sharing a moment in their career that has shifted their perspective and has helped them evolve as a band.
“We played a tough crowd back in 2007, and I felt miserable afterwards. We were rookies, and I was pretending to be mysterious because I felt that was what it took. Chito Miranda of Parokya ni Edgar told me, in a nutshell, to just be myself. There is nothing mysterious about me. I’m an ENFP. When we started being ourselves onstage, that really 'unlocked' our live shows. We all became fun, engaging, jolly even.”
More than two decades later, the band remains strong in their music-making. While embracing new cheer, the new compositions and evolved tracks still resonate with the melodic and heartfelt ethos Sponge Cola is known for: bringing nostalgic roots with fresh expression.
“We just want to play EVERYWHERE,” Yael expressed when asked about the band’s goals. “There will be more songs, more shows, and a collab to start the next year.”
For updates on their latest music release and upcoming shows, stay tuned to Sponge Cola’s official Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram pages.
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