Former Senator and independent senatorial candidate Bam Aquino has pledged to explore policy initiatives aimed at bolstering the country’s music industry, especially in the face of challenges presented by the digital landscape.
Bam made this commitment during a recent meeting with notable musicians from various genres, including DJ Medmessiah, Morobeats, Pio Balbuena, Chelsea Alley (formerly of Slapshock), and the PPop girl group Yara.
“Filipinos are renowned for our musical talent, and it’s one of the things that has put us on the map. We need to strengthen this further to discover even more emerging talent,” Bam remarked.
However, the growth of the local music industry faces several hurdles, including the rampant issue of digital piracy, which threatens the livelihood of Filipino artists, along with various intellectual property concerns.
“We will craft policies to ensure the livelihood of our musicians and safeguard their hard-earned creations by reinforcing intellectual property protections,” Bam stated.
He also emphasized the need to provide health insurance to artists, acknowledging the physical strain musicians endure due to late-night gigs and other performances. “We need to make sure that their health is protected as they dedicate themselves to their craft,” he added.
The musicians present at the meeting expressed their support for Bam’s advocacy and voiced their willingness to back his candidacy in the upcoming May elections, hopeful that he will be a strong advocate for the music industry’s protection and welfare.
Bam has already garnered endorsements from various artists and influencers, including Jolina Magdangal, Mark Escueta, Bayang Barrios, Niccolo Cosme, Mitch Valdes, Arman Ferrer, Ayrin Villamor, Moy Ortiz, AC Soriano and comedian Alex Calleja.
Pia Magalona, Arkin Magalona, Elmo Magalona, Nica del Rosario, Pinky Amador, Kerwin King, Tita Jegs, Jim Paredes, Elha Nympha, Jeli Mateo and Chef Jeng Flores have also pledged their support, alongside other notable celebrities like Bodjie Pascua, Lance Oca, Mama Loi Villarama, and The Company’s Moy Ortiz, Sweet Plantado Tiongson, OJ Mariano and Teacher Annie Quintos.
If elected to the Senate, Aquino has outlined plans to expand the Free College Law to cover more students, ensuring subsidies for additional school expenses. He has also committed to advocating for guaranteed employment for Filipinos.
