Original Pilipino Music (OPM) maintains its domination with the presence of both established and emerging artists, whose major goal is to create songs that tell the stories of every Filipino listener.

Whether the listener is at home listening to the radio or streaming on Spotify and other digital music platforms, music is a part of everyday life, and they experience every phrase and emotion in the songs.

Meet Formula 5, a new boy group managed by director Frank Lloyd Mamaril, who also recently debuted as a singer. In addition to directing shows, Mamaril currently performs and manages talent.

New boy group Formula 5. Photo by Josh Mercado.

The group consists of Kirby Bas, Lei Dionela, Kier, Shone Ejusa, Oliver Agustin, and Mamaril himself. They recently headlined a mini-show at Viva Cafe in Quezon City to promote their own music.

For Bas, a singer, violinist, and former "Tawag ng Tanghalan" contestant on "It's Showtime" from Agusan del Sur, music allows him to express himself and connect with fans.

His original song "Hayaan" is devoted to all loving partners who are hurting but still fighting for their relationships.

“Our group's strength lies in the fact that we represent various parts of the Philippines. I'm from Mindanao. My co-members are from the South and North. It's good to represent our hometowns. We do our best to make each performance our own,” he said.

Dionela, a singer and content creator from Cavite, performed his original song "Linaw." Of the group members, he is the only one who wants to pursue acting after attending several acting workshops.

He said it's a blessing to find a group that values originality while also celebrating friendship, and that enthusiasm is what keeps them together.

Kier, on the other hand, focuses on songwriting, having written original songs for the group as well as each individual member. According to him, there is power in songwriting, and it always moves him when an audience can identify to the songs he created.

“Lumaki po ako sa pamilya ng musicians. My mother is my inspiration. I love expressing myself through songwriting. Minsan nakukuha ko rin ‘yung mga isinusulat ko sa kuwento ng mga kakilala ko. Most of my songs ay hugot,” shared Kier. 

Ejusa, a recording artist from Negros Occidental and TikTok PH Rising Livestreamer of the Year 2023, believes their group has a lot to contribute and appreciates all support. He also uses his platform to entertain and promote positivism.

“Marami kaming io-offer. Deserve namin ‘yung support. We’re determined,” he expressed.

Agustin, the newest member from Parañaque City who received public attention for his exceptional rendition of Lani Misalucha's "Bukas na Lang Kita Mamahalin" on the popular show "Tawag ng Tanghalan," hopes that their individual stories may encourage people to achieve their dreams.

“Itong ginagawa namin ay hindi lang para sumikat. Gusto rin naming ipakita ‘yung stories namin,” he stated.

Mamaril, who has directed concerts for Lani Misalucha, Morisette, Martin Nievera, and others, is determined to pursue a new career as a manager and singer. Mamaril broke down in tears during their mini-show while singing his original song "Made to Believe."

“Dati, wala namang naniniwala sa akin. Nanggaling lang po ako sa simpleng pamilya na nagsumikap para makarating kung nasaan ako ngayon, at gusto kong maranasan nila ‘yun. With hard work, mararating din nila ‘yung mga pangarap nila,” he told ABS-CBN News.

“The song ‘Made to Believe’ really makes an impact. Kailangan ko lang maniwala sa sarili ko. You really have to believe in yourself,” he added.

As a manager, Mamaril wants the boy group to be focused on their goal and constantly reminds them of the need of professionalism.

“Sa totoo lang, magkakaiba sila ng mga ugali. Ang maganda sa kanila, alam nila kung ano ang boundaries nila. Sa rehearsals, dapat may focus. Sabi ko, always remember kung bakit sila pumasok dito. I remind them kung ano ba ang purpose nila,” he confessed. 

He was then asked how he balances his roles as director, singer, and manager.

“Kaya namang pagsabay-sabayin. Ang secret lang naman is kung masaya ka sa ginagawa mo. Kung masaya ka sa ginagawa mo, hindi mo na maiisip na ang dami mong ginagawa. Sa panahon ngayon, masaya ako sa ginagawa ko, at nag-uumapaw ang blessings at nag-uumapaw ang pagmamahal na gusto kong ibigay sa mga tao,” he ended.

Formula 5 is also scheduled to perform at Aegis' forthcoming concert. They will also hold gigs internationally. Their original music is accessible on Spotify and other digital music platforms.