PARI gives out Dangal awards to OPM trailblazers

Afew weeks ago, the Philippine Association of Record Industry (PARI), together with Go Live Asia, gave out the Awit Awards in recognition of excellence in the field of recorded music. Last Oct. 14, PARI and Go Live Asia were at it again. This time around, it was to honor the artists, movers, music professionals, industry pioneers and trailblazers whose significant contributions have shaped Original Pilipino Music (OPM) across generations.

The award is aptly named the Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino. It is the highest distinction under the Awit Awards. It was usually given out during the Awit show, until this year, somebody probably thought, why not make it a separate event and give these influential music icons their own turn to shine? So, it happened during ceremonies held at the Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City.

And here they are the Dangal awardees of the Awit Awards:

To Ogie Alcasid, the Recording Artist Award, in honor of his remarkable career as a singer and songwriter and recording artist. His extensive body of work, musical versatility and enduring influence have made him one of the most respected figures in Filipino music, and because of songs like Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang, Kailangan Kita, Hanggang Ngayon, Pangarap Ko ang Ibigin Ka.

Ocampo, Lifetime Achievement Awardee, with Viva Boss Vic del Rosario, the award presenter.

Photo courtesy of GoLive Asia and JapsRamiscal Studio via Awit Awards’ official Facebook page

To Gary Valenciano, the Concert Artist Award. It is in recognition of an extraordinary career defined by powerful live performances, musical innovation and an unmistakable stage presence that has inspired generations of Filipino performers. Mr. Pure Energy, ever kinetic in his moves, continues to do all that despite battling Type 1 diabetes, plus cardiac and renal issues.

To Jose Mari Chan, the Composer Award. It is to celebrate one of the country’s most beloved composers, whose works are deeply woven into Filipino culture and resonate across generations. And it really means across, from the sweet Afterglow and Deep in My Heart in 1966 up to Can We Just Stop and Talk a While to Refrain down to Beautiful Girl and the tremendously appealing Christmas in our Hearts.

To Angelo “Angee” Rozul, the Recording Engineer Award. It is in recognition of his technical mastery that helps shape the sound and which brings out the best of recorded Filipino music. He is the go-to guy for performers and producers who believe in his extraordinary ears that create excellent recorded sound.

To Antonio Ocampo, the Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of his dedicated service of almost 60 continuous years as a music executive and for his lasting legacy in the development and advancement of the Philippine music industry. A quiet presence of 89 years that steered an astonishing line-up of artists to stardom, starting with the late Victor Wood down to The CompanY and Rob Deniel.

And take note, this year’s Dangal Award is not limited to industry icons. Also getting their share are newbies who this early have already proven themselves worthy.

This is the Global Impact Award, which this year goes to:

SB19 in celebration of the pioneering P-pop group’s international achievements, artistic influence and significant role in expanding the global visibility and recognition of Filipino music.

BINI in recognition of the group’s growing international presence, achievements and part in introducing contemporary Filipino pop music to audiences worldwide.

And to Cup of Joe in honor of the band’s remarkable rise, streaming achievements, concert successes and expanding international following, which contribute to the growing appreciation of original contemporary Filipino music beyond the Philippines.

Their achievements reflect not only the growing international appeal of OPM but also its potential as a powerful Filipino cultural and creative export.

Congratulations to the Dangals of the Philippine music industry.