Takipsilog, a student band from Laguna University, secured second place in the regional leg of the Bagong Pilipinas Songwriting Contest, held during the Presidential Communications Office’s CommUnity Caravan Awarding Ceremony at the Heritage Hotel on October 25, 2024.
The band, composed of Rouin Vallejo (percussionist), Vic Ashley Almoete (vocalist), Aaron James Ipapo (bassist), and John Lloyd Obog (guitarist/producer), represented the university with an original composition inspired by the contest’s theme, “Youth in the New Philippines.”
Vallejo, a BS Computer Science student majoring in Data Science, expressed pride in the band’s achievement, especially as first-time contenders in a government-organized, high-level competition. “Masaya kami kasi first time naming sumali sa ganitong level ng contest, lalo’t mula pa ito sa isang national agency,” he said.
According to the band, the song incorporates the four core values of the Bagong Pilipinas campaign, with each verse reflecting a distinct principle and the chorus focusing on their interpretation of what it means to be an ideal Filipino youth.
While grateful for the recognition, Vallejo emphasized that the experience was also a reminder of the importance of continuous growth as artists. “Marami pa akong kailangang matutunan at pagsasanayan. Pero kahit nakuha namin ang 2nd place, hindi pa rin ganoon kataas ang kumpiyansa ko. Ang mahalaga ay naihayag namin ang aming opinyon at nararamdaman sa pamamagitan ng musika,” he shared.
He also offered words of encouragement to fellow young musicians: “Huwag mong ikahon ang iyong sarili. Humugot ka ng inspirasyon sa mga artist na hinahangaan mo. Hindi mo kailangang pilitin ang sarili mo na magsulat—kusa ‘yan lalabas.” He added, “Normal lang matalo; ang hindi normal ay ‘yung lagi kang nananalo.”
Takipsilog’s success stands as a testament to the power of youth expression and creativity. The band hopes to continue inspiring others through their music and commitment to meaningful storytelling.
By: Leorogel Oca / EUN
Photo by: Digital Digest, The LU CCS Publication
