DepEd condemns ‘political use’ of ‘Dakila Ka, Bayani Ka’ song

MANILA – The Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday condemned the use of the “Dakila Ka, Bayani Ka” song in an online political promotion video.

In a statement, DepEd Undersecretary for Administration Alaine Pascua said the song was originally made as a tribute to front-liners against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) but was used “without” permission for a political video supporting presidential candidate Vice President Leni Robredo.

“While we respect the political choice of the medical personnel featured in the video, we are appalled that the people behind the production of the said video did not even practice due diligence in securing permission first from the artists who graciously lent their time and talent for the song,” he said.

According to the post, the campaign video was produced by the Robredo People’s Council Hope and Beyond Nueva Ecija, with members of the Nueva Ecija Doctors for Leni for Free performing in it.

Moreover, Pascua insisted it was offensive to use the front-liners heroism for politics, stressing their service is for the public welfare regardless of political color.

“The song itself emphasizes ‘Anuman ang kulay nila, anuman ang paniniwala, nagkakaisa sa pagtulong sa kaligtasan ng iba (Whichever color, principle, there’s unity in ensuring the safety of others),’ to recognize the setting aside of political colors and partisanship in their service to our people. That message and recognition was sadly and unfortunately bastardized by this political rendition,” he added.

Pascua then warned they would be taking legal actions, reminding the public to spare such materials from partisan initiatives.

Meanwhile, the video in question which was posted on March 24 has already taken down, shortly after the release of Pascua’s statement.

“Dakila Ka, Bayani Ka” is a composed by Arnie Mendaros and arranged by Albert Tamayo.