TEMPLAR'S PICK | Kapangyarihan by Ben&Ben ft. SB19

Jan Ambre Raymundo

PUBMAT | Carlene Sarmiento

TEMPLAR’S PICK | Kapangyarihan 

Artist: Ben & Ben, SB19

Genre: Folk-rock, Hip-hop

Album: Pebble House, Vol.1: Kuwaderno

Released: 2021

Rating: 5/5

‘Di naman kami nagkulang sa aming pag-unawa

For several years, our insight into the government has seen hardly any change—from expecting that the government would implement reforms and policies to improve the state of the country, to being disappointed yet again because of their unfulfilled promises. Even when their actions and  intentions do not align with their sworn duties as elected officials, their seat goes unchecked and they still remain in power. 

“Kapangyarihan” is a song written by John Paulo Bagnas Nase, also known by his stage name Pablo. He is a member of the band SB19, and collaborated together with brothers Miguel Benjamin Guico and Paolo Benjamin Guico of the OPM band Ben&Ben. The song itself is a social commentary depicting a theme of demanding accountability and condemning the abuse of power. It is a cry for justice in the midst of the crimes inflicted by corrupt government officials.

‘Wag niyong kalimutan na hawak-hawak namin ang inyong trono 

It is easy for the people who are in power to often forget the reason why they are in the position they are currently clinging to. Each of us has the right to vote, and it is our duty to make sure that the public servants we elect perform their responsibilities properly. They swore to only serve the people, however it does not reflect on their actions. In this case, we can hold them accountable—even remove them from their position. The people can file for impeachment against these officials under the grounds of graft and corruption, and even betrayal of public trust.

What’s interesting about the lyrics is how genuine and heartfelt they come across to its listeners, which are the Filipino masses. The way it is written makes it impactful to a certain extent, where its music and visuals grab the attention of the listeners and encourage them to take action—such as calling out politicians for their grave misconduct.

Magwawagi ang katotohanan, ang kadiliman ay ibabagsak

It is important to bear in mind that even if one commits such atrocities, the truth will always come to light. It might not be revealed immediately, but it eventually will unfold.

The lyrics “magwawagi ang katotohanan” remind us that no matter how many lies are spread and mandated by those in power just to hide the true state of our country, the truth will still and always prevail. That is why it is our duty as the citizens of our country to hold corrupt officials accountable for their actions and wrongdoings—to cast aside obscurity and allow only the deserving to lead and take position in the government.

It is a song that contains a powerful and empowering heavy instrumental that emphasizes its lyrical message—conveying a narrative about the misuse of the power government officials hold and the atrocities done by our public servants being swept under the rug.

“Kapangyarihan” is not only a song aiming to hold our politicians accountable, it is also an anthem that reminds everyone that the power we have given to public servants should never be abused. To never turn a blind eye, and always ask for absolute transparency to hold them accountable. As Edward Snowden said, “There can be no faith in government if our highest offices are excused from scrutiny—they should be setting the example of transparency.”