Sotto's folly: Changing the Lyrics of Lupang Hinirang

Senate president Vicente "Tito" Sotto III is one damned good composer, singer and record producer. He is one of those credited of introducing what we now know as "Manila Sound." During the seventies, Manila Sound was not just Hotdogs or Cinderellas. There are groups such as Blue Jeans and VST and Company which provided us with endless hours of sheer disco-inspired music.

Sadly, let us admit that Sotto's music was a Filipino interpretation of Motown's and that of the Bee Gees. Just listen to the lyrics and the notes used in the music produced by the VST. I must admit though that it was Tito, as well as Joey and Vic, who composed the most melodious songs and the most emotive lyrics.

And the Sotto brothers mind you, are forebears of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), a sound that is equally enjoyed by Filipinos and Foreigners.

Having said that, it is but natural for me to say that since Sotto bears the right credentials to propose such a change in the lyrics of our national anthem, he is free to propose a change in the lyrics. It is our duty, however, to oppose it.

Songs are reflective of the emotions and views of the generation which it became known. When Julian Felipe composed our national anthem, like Sotto, the tune came from the Marcha National Filipina which was copied from a foreign source. Jose Palma's poem was used for its lyrics.

Palma's lyrics reflect the popular feeling and social consciousness of those times. And these very same nationalist feelings which united this nation as "Philippines" are still being felt and believed by most Filipinos.

I doubt if Sotto would allow future generations to change the lyrics of such popular VST songs as "Ipagpatawad Mo" into " Huwag Po Kuya!", or " Step yes, step no," as " Rape yes, rape no."

In the music industry, there is such a thing as respect of a composer's song. Sotto must be reminded of this.

Enough said.