The Power of “Kapangyarihan”
Ben&Ben’s second album titled “Pebble House Vol 1. “Kuwaderno” was released a few days ago and among the different tunes, I have to admit my personal favourite is “Kapangyarihan”.
Art is a medium that numerous people have taken to in order to decry the various afflictions perpetuated by our oppressors. Rizal penned “El Filibusterismo” to portray the corruption rampaging the nation while “Spolarium” depicts the struggle for humanity, and in Juan Luna’s own words “to awaken Filipinos from ignorance, blindness, mental darkness, and oppression.” It stimulates us and draws out emotions. More than anything, it captures social issues so succinctly that other vehicles may not be able to translate.
In “Kapangyarihan”, one can visibly hear its pointed political commentary. It is a cry for justice amidst the atrocities inflicted by those who hold positions of power. The lyrics sing of political awareness and the hope that darkness will be overcome for truth will always prevail.
Akala niyo ba, ang kapangyarihan
Ay nasa inyo? Sino ba kayo?
The song begins with the lines above, a piercing remark—no embellishments, no insincerity. Perhaps it is a rhetorical question, yet I lean towards accusation. Truly, sino nga ba kayo? Who are you to think the power is yours? While the song was crafted in response to the murders of two citizens by a police officer, I believe the song epitomizes our current situation in the country.
This is the glaring reality: Our government is failing and exemplifies failure. There is no need to sugarcoat it or to act ignorant of the crimes that have ensued in the past 5 years of our administration. We were promised and yet we are now left in the dirt while a multitude of followers grows in ill-gotten wealth (Ranada, 2021; Five Vows, Five Years Later: A Lookback into Duterte’s Major Campaign Promises, n.d.). We were enslaved by the promises—whispered sweet nothings—that have not borne any fruit. While trolls would no doubt be quick to bombard disinformation and fake news about the supposed ‘successes’ all over social media, there is no denying that we were faring far worst than we did before the previous election.
A staggering 4.2 million Filipinos remain hungry (Social Weather Stations, 2021) while those in power grow ravenous and bathe in their excess greed. Commission On Audit (COA) findings point to significant funding pillaged right under our noses, disguised under “overpriced items” and inadequate allocation and utilization of funds. Who knows just how much has been funneled towards the pockets of many?
In today’s community development work, there is great emphasis on community organizing. In this process, we do not simply create moments, we build movements. And the power is in the people. Our power is in our vote. A brief study of history shows what we already know: tyrants are afraid of their people by virtue of their collective power. That is why the very first thing they do is remove it by oppressing them. It is time we claim what is rightfully ours. We cannot settle for mediocre politicians and so-called “servants” who merely take jabs at their opponents’ physical appearance. Or applauding heedless declarations that demonstrate no yield. Please know that I am not advocating for a revolution, I am simply championing an informed vote.
Magwawagi ang katotohanan
Ang kadiliman ay ibabagsak
I believe that “Kapangyarihan” will soon become the anthem for our pursuit of freedom from our current government.
Nagsisilbi ka dapat
Nagsisilbi ka dapat
I hope, this too, is our cry when campaigns roll out within the next few months and politicians’ faces are plastered all over building walls and covered courts; political jingles playing incessantly on all platforms—all political noise to distract us from the wiles of political parties. Do not be swayed by empty promises. Demand what is your right: good and clean governance that seeks to serve its people, not its own political agenda. The Philippines has taken a tragic step back. But it is not too late. Every vote counts.
I applaud Ben&Ben for using their voice and their craft, but most of all for their courage to pen political commentary to reach the masses. It is a pleasure to listen to the masterpiece that is this song and I encourage you to have a go should you have the time.
References:
- Ranada, P. (2021, July 26). Unfulfilled promises loom over Duterte’s final SONA. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/nation/unfulfilled-promises-loom-duterte-sona-2021
- Five vows, five years later: A lookback into Duterte’s major campaign promises. (n.d.). CNN Philippines. Retrieved September 4, 2021, from https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2021/7/22/SONA-2021-Duterte-presidential-campaign-promises.html
