Noel Cabangon shares sentiment on extra judicial killings

MANILA, Philippines — “Totoy makinig ka, 'wag kang magpa-gabi, baka mapagkamalan ka’t humandusay d'yan sa tabi.”

Those are the lyrics of the song “Tatsulok” composed on 1989 and released on 1990 by Buklod. Decades after, it was revived by the band “Bamboo.” Now, the lyrics hit the social media by storm because it perfectly fits what happened on the Kian Delos Reyes case.

During his new album launch at the Universal Records office, Noel Cabangon, member of Buklod, shared his sentiments on the recent killings reportedly brought about by government’s all-out war against drugs.

“If the song is still very much relevant, there must be really something wrong,” Cabangon told Philstar.com. 

The activist-singer also said that Filipinos should be vigilant in these violent times.  

“We are now living in a very violent time. There is no middle ground to speak of and fear is reigning in the minds of a lot of Filipinos. Everyone can be a target. But we have to fight the fear and music is the powerful instrument to open the hearts and minds of the people,” the singer behind “Kanlungan” said.

He urges his co-artists to come together and say something about the killings. “Artists can be catalysts for change,” Cabangon said.

The singer, known for his calm voice, unveiled his seventh album under Universal Records titled, “Byahe Pa Rin,” which revitalizes tghe soul with its modern array of songs interpreted by the multi-platinum artist.

The new album features Cabangon’s version of well-loved Original Pinoy Music (OPM) modern classics such as “Tadhana” by Up Dharma Down, “Hari ng Sablay” by Sugarfree, “Kahit Kailan” by South Border, “With a Smile” by Eraserheads, “Ikaw” by Yeng Constantino, and “Sa Kanya” by Ogie Alcasid. The follow-up single “Kahit Kailan" features powerful vocals by "Soul Supreme" KZ Tandingan.

Apart from cover songs, the album also contains two of his original compositions “Missing You” and “Umiibig.”

“Our country has indeed been blessed with a treasure trove of music, our own songs that truly capture our stories, sensibilities and emotions. A number of them I have been fortunate enough to include in this album,” Cabangon said.