by Michael Joe T. Delizo
March 27, 2014
Pinoy rock icon Chito Miranda aired disappointment over the recently proposed OPM (Original Pilipino Music) bill filed by Ifugao Representative Teddy Baguilat Jr.
The OPM Development Act of 2014 or House Bill 4218, when passed, will require foreign acts to pay a so-called Reciprocal Equity Fee before they could hold shows in the Philippines, among other measures.
A report also quoted Baguilat as saying that the bill meant to ”address the displacement of economic opportunity that arises when the foreign artists are here.”
On Twitter, Parokya Ni Edgar band vocalist reacted strongly against the proposal, claiming that it would not help further OPM in as much as it would only discourage foreign acts to stage concerts in the country.
“Bakit kelangan magbayad ng equity ang foreign acts? We should welcome them! Not drive them off! Hindi yan ang sagot para umunlad ang OPM,” he said.
Miranda argued that the supposed downfall of local music industry should not be blamed on foreign artists. He maintained that it is the local musicians’ responsibility to enliven the local scene by making music “worth listening to.”
“Sorry uminit ulo ko. Gusto singilin ang mga foreign acts ng mas malaking tax kasi nalulugi daw ang Pinoy acts. Hindi nila kasalanan ‘yun! Kasalanan na (sic) ng mga foreign acts kung bakit kulang ang kita ng Pinoy artists? Dapat nga masaya tayo na pumupunta sila dito eh,” he added.
The 38-year-old musician pointed a finger at illegal copying and selling of locally produced music as the threat. “Dun nalulugi ang mga pinoy artists! Hindi dahil sa foreign acts!”
He proposed, “Kelangan talaga natin ng support mula radio stations and proper enforcement against piracy. That, i understand. Pero higit sa lahat, kelangan natin gumawa ng magagandang kanta kasi papakinggan yan ng pinoy kahit gaano pa kasikat ang mga banyagang kanta.”
Despite his criticisms, Miranda clarified that he ”appreciate(s) the govt’s efforts to help OPM,” but added, “Let’s do it correctly.”
Singer Ogie Alcasid, president of Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM), has responded to Miranda’s rant, saying, ”ayus pare! Tulong tulong tyo. God bless.”
