MNL48, one of the pioneers of the P-pop genre, has officially announced its disbandment after eight years as a group.
On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, MNL48’s agency, P.O.S Inc., released a statement confirming the P-pop girl group’s end of promotional activities at the end of the month.
The decision was made after “extensive discussions” among the involved parties, particularly regarding the sustainability of keeping the group moving forward.
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The management added that factors considered in the group’s disbandment include the management structure and operating environment, among others.
"After extensive discussions with all relevant parties, P.O.S Inc. has made the difficult decision to conclude ML48's activities as of the end of May 2026.
"Throughout its activities, ML48 has been supported by many fans, members, staff, and all those involved.
"However, after carefully considering the sustainability of the management structure, the future operating environment, and the various conditions necessary to continue supporting the group in a stable manner, we have come to the conclusion that it would be difficult to continue ML48's activities going forward," the label said.
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The management also apologized to fans for the outcome, saying they did their best to support the girl group prior to its disbandment.
Its statement read, "As management, we have done our utmost to carry ML48 forward in the best possible way.
"We deeply apologize for not being able to fully meet everyone's expectations in the end."
As a way of thanking their loyal supporters, collectively known as MNLoves, the girl group released the music video for its hit song “Pag-ibig Fortune Cookie.”
The music video has been marked as the group’s final work.
The management wrote: "We would also like to announce that the music video for 'Pag-ibig Fortune Cookie,' released on YouTube today, will be MNL48's final work as a group.
"This work contains our gratitude toward all the fans who have supported us, as well as the heartfelt feelings of the members themselves.
"We sincerely hope you will watch and enjoy it."
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P.O.S Inc. also expressed gratitude to the fans, members, staff, and everyone involved in the group’s journey since its debut.
The statement continued: "To all the fans who have continuously supported ML48, to every member who has been part of this journey, and to everyone involved with the group, we extend our deepest gratitude.
"We sincerely apologize for the sudden nature of this announcement and for arriving at this difficult decision.
"We deeply express our heartfelt gratitude once again for all the love and support you have given to MNL48 over the years."
MNL48 LEGACY
Formed as the Philippine sister group of Japan’s globally known idol franchise AKB48, MNL48 rose to fame through a reality talent search on It’s Showtime in 2018.
The group originally debuted with 48 members and was divided into generations.
The girl group consisted of members from the first to fifth generations, including notable names such as Abby Trinidad, Sheki Arzaga, Coleen Trinidad, and Jem Caldejon, among others.
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MNL48 became known for songs such as “Pag-ibig Fortune Cookie,” “365 Araw ng Eroplanong Papel,” “Ikaw ang Melody,” “Talulot ng Sakura,” “Palusot Ko’y Maybe,” and “High Tension,” while also gaining a dedicated fanbase through performances, mall shows, and meet-and-greet events.
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