Mark Carpio returns with new EP 'Huling Pag-ibig'

MANILA, Philippines — Original Pilipino Music (OPM) singer Mark Carpio returns with “Huling Pag-ibig,” a four-track EP released under EMPIRE.PH Music and ONErpm. 

The project coincides with Mark’s 10th year anniversary in the local music industry, encapsulating themes of romance, yearning, loss, and emotional acceptance in one riveting body of work.

Best known for his work as a balladeer and songwriter, Mark has amassed nearly 400 million streams on Spotify, establishing himself as one of the most recognizable voices in contemporary Filipino pop. With “Huling Pag-ibig,” he solidifies his reputation while embracing a turning point in his artistic journey.

The EP reflects the themes introduced in earlier releases such as “Hiling” and “Kay Tagal,” which explored longing and the fulfillment of love. This time, however, Mark explores a change in perspective, confronting the possibility that love may not unfold as hoped. The result is a reflective arc that traces love’s evolution: from persistence and devotion to heartbreak and eventual acceptance.

“This EP is the twist of that story,” he explained. “It asks, what if, after all that waiting, things didn’t turn out the way I hoped? It’s about fighting for love until your very last drop of hope—and learning to let go when there’s nothing left.”

Many of the songs on “Huling Pag-ibig” originated as early ideas from the start of Mark’s career, later shaped by years of personal growth, lived experiences, and fan interactions. Through platforms like TikTok and his “Kape Tayo” series, Mark invited listeners into his creative process, resulting in a project that reflects both personal and shared emotional narratives.

Each track contributes a distinct sound to the EP’s overall texture. The title track, produced by RJ Pineda, draws inspiration from sweeping ballads in the vein of Adele, reinterpreted through a distinctly Filipino lens. “Ayaw Mo Na,” co-written with Ethan Loukas, leans into an organic folk style with intimate storytelling, while “Paano Ba Mag-isa” returns to Carpio’s roots with a stripped-down, melody-driven arrangement grounded in classic ballad traditions.

The EP’s centerpiece, “Paalam Na,” produced by Nikhil Amarnani of Line In Productions, marks a stylistic departure. Infused with alternative pop-rock elements, the track serves as a powerful closing statement on acceptance and emotional release.

“It’s the song that took me the longest to write,” he said. “I started it almost 10 years ago, but I only fully understood it recently.”

He credits a pivotal moment with a close friend for finally completing the track. “He came to my studio after a breakup, quietly sitting there and trying to hold everything in. That moment stayed with me. It gave me the clarity to finish the song. In the EP, it represents closure—accepting that someone has moved on, even if you’re still in the process of letting go.”

Released alongside his 10th anniversary as a recording artist, “Huling Pag-ibig” also signals a transition. Carpio hints that this project may close the chapter on his signature “hugot” ballad era, paving the way for new sonic directions.

“This could be the closing chapter of that side of me. What comes next is something I’m really excited abou,” he said. 

Mark’s “Huling Pag-ibig” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

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