A music is a genuine expression of Filipinos not only as a unified group, but also as distinct individuals. The PhilPop MusicFest Foundation, Inc. is a wholehearted advocate of this notion,

which is why they established the Philippine Popular Music Festival (PhilPop) early this year in the first place. And now, under the leadership of its executive director, Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, they are ready to set the stage for 2013.

PhilPop is a search for excellent Filipino musical composers, whether residing here or abroad, who can showcase musical ingenuity and passion to an overwhelming degree. Songwriters can start sending their original song entries by January 1 until February 28, 2013 through www.philpop.com.ph.

The PhilPop competition has generated much excitement since its kick off simply because of the Filipino’s love for music. And the spotlight that is now being shone on songwriters is an undertaking that is indeed long overdue.

The PhilPop Foundation sees Filipino music as a cultural treasure and an indication of local identity. Admittedly, a lot of foreign influence has been integrated in the local music scene.

Filipinos are not only listening to international music, but also composing their own music that is similar to what they hear, while adding their own unique flavor. While it is positive that the local musical caliber is developing through external influences, there is still an obligation to come up with original and innovative material.

The PhilPop Foundation is once again giving Filipinos the opportunity to become their own inspiration. This inspiration can then be cascaded to future generations, which in turn can mae their own music.

The PhilPop Musicfest Foundation, Inc. is an advocate of Filipino music, which is a cultural treasure—the identity of our people and our country. It seeks to enrich original Filipino music and educate this and future generations on its uniqueness and importance. They seek to resound and preserve the vanishing perhaps forgotten musical gems. They seek to empower Filipino songwriters whose music can inspire and motivate a nation.

Better things are surely in store for PhilPop, its foundation, and of course the Filipino music industry in general. Besides the songwriting competition, PhilPop also embarked on a nationwide tour to teach songwriting and music appreciation through the project, “Songwriting with the Maestro,” which has reached thousands of students and other enthusiasts from several parts of the country.