by Jon de Castro
The Philippines has taken Martin Nievera to court.
The Pilipino singer has been accused of improperly singing the Philippine National Anthem during the Pacquiao-Hatton fight in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 3rd.
Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. said the “test case” would determine if Nievera violated Republic Act 8491, which states that “Lupang Hinirang” shall be played “in accordance with the arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe”.
Bargaza is not the only one who feels this way. The National Historical Institute (NHI) has also criticized his performance. NHI Chairman Ameth Ocampo has expressed his disappointment with his rendition saying in an interview with the Philippine Inquirer, “Despite repeated reminders, some artists continue to make adjustments to the anthem, which is not an ordinary piece of music open to free interpretation”.
According to the Philippine Constitution, the song should only be performed with an accompanying pianist or brass band. During his rendition, Nievera started off singing softly and slowly, and ended with higher, elongated notes, which may have stricken a chord with some traditionalists.
However, according to reactions on YouTube sites, most of the general public does not have any problem with changing the national anthem. “He’s an artist, if he’s invited to sing the song, he should be allowed to make it his own”, said one user.
Nievera faces a fine of P5,000 to P20,000 and my be imprisoned for no more than a year as stated in Chapter VII, Sec. 50 of RA 8491.
He is not the first to receive criticism for a rendition of the national anthem. Sarah Geronimo, Kyla, Lani Misalucha and Bituin Escalante have been criticized by the agency for their renditions during Pacquiao’s previous fights.
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Comments
martin nievera should have stick to the original rhythm of the national anthem instead of giving it an artistic rendition. i never heard tom jones did that to their national anthem.
I remember when I saw/heard this...the arrangement sounded like a Magic Mic instrumental to me. After he was done I expected a drumroll and a score to pop up.
serious man, i was hella trippin watching it. ugly arrangement with its super synthesized magic-mic style. when is charise pempengco gonna sing it?
In case you were curious: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQxf1tFsJoA