MANILA >> American rock band Journey’s lead vocalist Arnel Pineda said he’s been putting together an album of his own compositions in his own voice which he plans to release this year.

But he quashed rumors that he is gearing to leave Journey. The Filipino singer said he will stay as long as the band needs him.

Pineda also dismissed talk of the band’s possible reunion with former lead singer Steve Perry.

The singer spoke in an interview Tuesday during the launch of his version of the song “Charity” in the animated children’s music video Cha-Ching on Cartoon Network.

The song about donating money or time to those in need can be purchased in iTunes Store to benefit Typhoon Haiyan victims in the Philippines.

The singer, 46, has been involved in charity projects in the Philippines. Having risen from poverty, he said it was his obligation to help those who struggle with difficulties he experienced.

Pineda was once a homeless teenager in Manila who at 15 started singing professionally with small bands. He found success after Journey guitarist Neal Schon discovered him in 2007 on YouTube singing hits of Perry and sounding strikingly like him.

“Even though I am still with (Journey) and we are touring, I am also working on my original materials and I am also recording them,” Pineda said, adding he aims to launch the album this year.

This year, Journey is touring the United States and Canada, and next year will tour South America.

On rumors of a Journey reunion with Perry, he said he has not heard any talk of that.

If that happens, he said “I’d be more than happy to give way,” saying it would allow him more time with his family.

But Pineda said: “As long as they need me I will be there, I’m never gonna quit on them.”