Manila, Philippines — October 10, 2025 — After years of shaping her own music, Filipino solo pop artist DIONE is ready to take the stage once again with her newest single, “Kalmot,” an irresistibly playful yet heartfelt track that turns her love for cats into an anthem — and an advocacy for rescued Puspins (Pusang Pinoy).
For the past decade, Dione Marianne Claire Ibarra, known on stage simply as DIONE, has been navigating the vibrant but unpredictable world of independent music. Born in Quezon City and raised in Antipolo and Bohol, the 29-year-old singer-songwriter embraces her multilingual roots — speaking Filipino, English, and Bisaya — to connect with audiences through songs that mirror strength, honesty, and heart.
“As an artist, I’ve learned to stop fearing rejection and judgment,” DIONE shares. “For 10 years, I’ve been chasing this dream — to be on a big stage and share songs I’ve poured my heart into. Every phase of my music reflects who I am at that moment.”
DIONE first gained attention with her single “Kodigo,” a flirty “delulu love song” about the thrill of romantic imagination — a sonic blend of dance-pop beats and dreamy visuals that marked her artistic rebirth.
But with “Kalmot,” DIONE takes an even bolder step — showing that pop can be lighthearted, meaningful, and deeply personal all at once. The single is inspired by her seven cats, especially her internet-famous feline Tomomi, known for playfully biting DIONE while she sings.
“People thought my last song ‘Kodigo’ was going to be about my cats because of my videos with Tomomi,” she laughs. “So I thought, why not actually make one? ‘Kalmot’ is about my desperate love for them — I give them everything even if they scratch, bite, or ignore me.”
Beyond its catchy hook (featuring meows and purrs from her real cats), “Kalmot” advocates for Puspin awareness, adoption, and proper pet care — a cause close to DIONE’s heart.
“I want them to be called Puspins instead of Pusakal. I want people to stop referring to our local cats in a demeaning way,” she adds. “They deserve love and respect like any other breed. My cats have healed me through life’s toughest moments — they’re my babies, and they deserve this song.”
The single launch will also double as a music video and lyric video watch party, ahead of their official online release on October 25. To celebrate this milestone, DIONE will host an official listening and fundraiser event on October 24 at SideQuest: Café + Hobby Lounge, Estancia Mall, in support of The Cat House, a local shelter for rescued cats. The event is open to the public — inviting cat lovers, music fans, and advocates alike to come together for a night of music, compassion, and community.
“When people hear the name DIONE, I want them to feel excitement and warmth,” she says. “My music is my way to connect — but beyond that, I want to leave a mark that’s genuine and personal.”
Yñigo Ferraz of Ysanygo served as the arranger, producer, and recording engineer, with the track recorded at Adorable Human Studios. The single captures DIONE’s artistic evolution through its energetic gang vocals and her first-ever Filipino rap verse — a testament to her playful and fearless approach to pop music. Supporting the production, Oz Kabuhat handled the sound and mastering engineering, ensuring the track’s refined finish. The melody and lyrics were written by DIONE herself, showcasing her deep creative involvement and artistic control over every aspect of the song.
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