Filipino-American Association of Southern Kentucky: Miss Biema Andales

Song from the Philippines

Performance: A vocal solo of the song entitled “Kung ako na lang sana” (If you have just chosen me)
Original Performing Artist: Bituin Escalante

Summary
Music is central to the culture and way of life in the Philippines. You can hear music everywhere—Jeepneys, buses, shops, malls, business establishments or in the streets. Songs have been written and sung just about every aspect of the Filipino experience—from planting rice (folk songs), to serenading a girl (harana) or expressions of love to a person or family, to expressions of worship and praise, to expressions of social change, or just having fun and making one laugh at the problems of life. The Filipino music has been influenced by local or tribal music, Spanish romantic music, classical music and the pop and rock music of the United States.

While many musical styles have been introduced and popularized in the Philippines, the heart of the Filipino music is the romantic theme centered on the Filipino’s desire for loyalty and love. An example of this genre is the song entitled “Kung ako na lang sana” (If you have chosen me) popularized by the actress/singer Ms. Bituin Escalante. The English translation says it all: the song is about a girl who is eternally in love with someone who has chosen to love someone else. The girl is wrestling with her emotions in that she respects the guy’s decision but she wishes a different life for both of them.

About the Filipino-American Association of Southern Kentucky
The Filipino-American Association of Southern Kentucky is a non-profit, non-sectarian, non-stock and non-political organization that aims to promote awareness of Philippine culture in Warren County KY and surrounding counties and promote the general welfare and well-being of its members. Membership is open to all persons who believe and adhere to the By-laws of the organization.

Acknowledgments

The Filipino-American Association of Southern Kentucky would like to thank Ms. Biema Andales for her performance and the organizers/sponsors of the 2011 Bowling Green International Festival..