We can wax poetic about loving the Philippines in celebration of Independence Day. Or we can "sing about it," as one actor puts it. See SPOT.ph’s nationalistic song picks that range from the regal and somber to the rocking and hilarious (in no particular order).
1. "Noypi" by Bamboo
Astig aspect: Striking a chord with its head-banging, yes-we-can vibe, "Noypi" did make Pinoys all over the world shout out their pride. Best heard live (or at least viewed over YouTube with your speakers turned up), you can’t help but fist-pump to this instant hit that put Bamboo on the rock pedestal in their 2004 debut.
Hallelujah for these lines: Hoy / Pinoy ako / Buo aking loob / May agimat ang dugo ko
2. "Bayan Ko" by Ruben Tagalog
Freedom fighting spirit: Commonly heard in protest rallies, "Bayan Ko" has been evoking nationalistic pride for decades since it was penned by the literary wonder Jose Corazon de Jesus a.k.a. Huseng Batute during the American occupation. It was "popular during the Japanese regime," but the most instant-recall version is that of Freddie Aguilar. It resonated in the streets during the People Power Revolution, EDSA II, and the late Former Pres. Corazon Aquino’s legendary eight-hour cortege on August 2009.
Lasting lines: Pilipinas kong minumutya / Pugad ng luha ko’t dalita / Aking adhika / Makita kang sakdal laya
3. "Mga Kababayan Ko" by Francis M.
Happy battle: The late "Man from Manila" put Filipino rap on the map with this breakthrough wordplay set to indigenous inspired music. The song’s thrust for loving fellowmen and all things local still rings relevant two decades after its release.
LSS-inducing lyrics: Mga kababayan ko / Dapat lang malaman nyo / Bilib ako sa kulay ko / Ako ay Pilipino
4. "Magkaisa" by Virna Lisa
Stroke of inspiration: "Magkaisa" was seared into the Filipino consciousness after it was played heavily in radio stations during the first 100 days of Former Pres. Corazon "Cory" Aquino’s government. A gift for Aquino’s oath taking in 1986, the song captured the new dawn of leadership, a period in our history when Filipinos, along with the whole world, rejoiced the rise of democracy from a peaceful revolution. Interesting tidbit: Senator-reelect Tito Sotto got Kris Aquino to endorse him in the recent elections despite their party differences because it was he who composed the Cory-inspired "Magkaisa."
Lasting lines: Magkaisa (may pagasa kang matatanaw) / At magsama (bagong umaga, bagong araw)
5. "Isang Bandila" by Rivermaya
Salute to three stars and a sun: "Isang Bandila" pushes for unity, respect, humility and hard work. Commissioned by late night news show Bandila, the song also provided an edgy soundtrack befitting the nerve-wracking world of breaking news.
Engraved-in-stone-worthy lines: Isang ugat, isang dugo / Isang pangalan, Pilipino
6. "Ako ay Pilipino" by Kuh Ledesma
Pride from within: Penned and composed by the legendary George Canseco, the song screams Pinoy pride even before its grand ending. It tackles seemingly simple subjects like using talents for the good of the country and being proud of the Filipino heritage. Every line goes straight to the heart with Kuh Ledesma’s striking delivery.
Patriotic phrases: Ako ay Pilipino / Taas noo kahit kanino / Ang Pilipino ay ako
7. "The Apl Song" by The Black Eyed Peas
Phunk factor: Pinoys love it whenever a kababayan makes waves in the international scene and it was no different when news got out that the rising Black Eyed Peas in 2003 had a Fil-Am member. What’s even better is that Allan Pineda Lindo a.k.a. apl.de.ap’s song about "surviving in his homeland" made it to the group’s album. He also paid homage to Pinoy folk band Asin by sampling the opening lyrics of their song "Balita." With simple, earnest lyrics set to easy listening melody, "The Apl Song" is a nostalgic and hopeful ear treat. Apl.de.ap also collaborated with the Department of Tourism for a song promoting the country, "Take Me to the Philippines."
Listen up y’all: Everyone helpin’ each other whenever they can / We makin’ it happen, from nothin’ to somethin’ / That’s how we be survivin’ back in my homeland
8. "Manila" by Hotdog
Manila Sound: "Manila" the song is as unforgettable as the country’s capital. The song transcends all generations, whether you were even alive at the time it was released in the ’70s or not, because of its bittersweet homesick lyrics laid on danceable beats.
Never-say-die words: I keep coming back to Manila / Simply no place like Manila / Manila, I’m coming home
9. "Wow Kalabaw" by Markus Highway
What the carabao: You might get lost with the fast-paced vocals but you’re sure to ride along with the song’s message: explore the Philippines. Markus Highway tells you to take the local roads not taken in lieu of foreign attractions and see if people do get nicer as you go farther and farther from Manila.
Road trip perfect: Wow wow wow kalabaw (Yes, it’s painfully obvious but it’s the best line of the song to shout out with the wind blowing against your hair-never mind the curious looks.)
10. "Magellan" by Yoyoy Villame
Hysterical history lesson: The late novelty act Yoyoy Villame struck gold with "Magellan," described as "his first and biggest hit" by Inquirer.net. The song narrates Magellan’s arrival and eventual demise in Lapu-Lapu’s hands in an ROTFL way, far from how stuffy history books do it. We wonder how many ’70s kids remember the exact date Magellan "discovered" the Philippines because of the song. (It’s March 16, 1521, as The Great Yoyoy Villame sings.)
For the win wisecrack: When Magellan was hit on his neck / He stumbled down and cried and cried / "Oh mother, mother, I am sick" /" Call the doctor very quick" /"Doctor, doctor shall I die?"/ "Tell my Mama do not cry"
SPOT.ph wants to know: Which Pinoy pride song would you sing?
Artwork by Warren Espejo.