At times, diplomats are requested to sing to the group during celebratory gatherings after the conclusion of meetings or during events. It may be useful to be familiar with some Original Pilipino Music (OPM), which will not only entertain the group but also promote Filipino language, culture, and music. More so, OPM celebrates the great talent of Filipino singers like Celeste Legaspi, Joey Ayala, Asin (band), Florante, Cinderella, Noel Cabangon, Lea Salonga, Basil Valdez, Nonoy Zuniga, Apo Hiking Society (band), Freddie Aguilar, Sharon Cuneta, Rey Valera, Regine Velasquez, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Eraserheads (band) and many others.
Here’s a random list of suggested possible songs, but take note that many other titles may be added to this:
Mamang Sorbetero by Celeste Legaspi
Karaniwang Tao by Joey Ayala
Itanong mo sa mga Bata by Asin
Handog by Florante
Bato sa Buhangin by Cinderella
Tagumpay Nating Lahat by Lea Salonga
Kastilyong Buhangin by Basil Valdez
Ngayon at Kailanman by Basil Valdez
Doon Lang by Nonoy Zuniga
Panalangin by Apo Hiking Society
Anak by Freddie Aguilar
Ikaw by Sharon Cuneta
Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko by Rey Valera
Tuwing Umuulan by Regine Velasquez
Ikaw ang Pangarap by Martin Nievera
Kahit Isang Saglit by Martin Nievera
Gaya ng Dati by Gary Valenciano
Awitin Mo at Isasayaw Ko by VST. & Co.
Manila by The Hotdogs
Ang Huling El Bimbo by Eraserheads
If someone would ask me who among these singers is the best, it would be really difficult to choose because they are all so talented and have their distinct voice and singing styles. Celeste Legaspi’s voice is like a flowing stream that reflects the rays of the sun. Basil Valdez’ voice is like water flowing from a crack in a rock in the middle of a beautiful forest. Asin has that dreamy quality that makes one long for home and ache for love of one’s country. Freddie Aguilar’s voice evoke a feeling of serenity in the country’s rural areas where the cicadas sing at night. Leah Salonga’s voice is crisp and articulate.
Some songs are best listened to when I’m a certain mood. But the two among the list that I play most often in any day are “Karaniwang Tao” (first choice) and “Panalangin” (2nd choice). They’re catchy, light, and very Pinoy in both language and emotions they evoke. ❤
It would be fun if a Pinoy diplomat could perform Yano’s songs coupled with his level of energy or Tropical Depression’s Kapayapaan (Peace) or Sampaguita’s Nosi Balasi (a reversed version of Sino ba sila, which translates to “Who are they?”).
A different list may be made for a younger crowd, as long as the songs are not ear-piercing nor meaningless. Knowing an English song that is usually sung during unofficial gatherings may also be handy.
The links to Youtube videos are provided for easier access. Enjoy! 🙂
Beyond Routes 