TEMPLAR'S PICK | Upuan by Gloc-9

Elijah Leigh Tan

PUBMAT | Carlene Sarmiento

Artist: Gloc-9 ft. Jeazelle Grutas 

Genre: Pinoy Hip-hop/ Political Hip-hop

Album: Matrikula

Released: 2009

Rating: 5/5

Unworthy of the Chair

“Kayo po na naka upo

Subukan nyo namang tumayo”

With all the unfortunate events flooding the news, I can't help but to wonder, “Is it really that comfortable?” Sitting on a throne that weighs down and crushes the people it was meant to serve.

“Upuan,” a Pinoy Hip-hop and Political Hip-hop song released in 2009, was written by Aristotle Pollisco—more widely known as Gloc-9, as part of one of his most influential albums, “Matrikula.” The song highlights social issues such as poverty, political dynasties, and corruption.  It became a hit on local radios, topping charts and even winning Song of the Year at the 23rd Awit Awards for its catchy beat and lyrics that captured Filipinos’ interest as it critiqued the lack of concern and empathy of the political class, or those seated in the ‘upuan,’ towards the sufferings of the Filipino people.

“Ang sarap sigurong manirahan sa bahay na ganyan”

The lines filled with satire and socially charged commentaries deeply resonated with me. Scrolling online exposed me to the two sides of the coin: one being the life of our struggling fellow countrymen, and the other being the enviable, cozy life of the elite.

What was once a mere song from my childhood awakened something in me. The lyrics that I have unknowingly memorized are no longer just words as I slowly understood their essence growing up. To me, it became a powerful advocacy.

Undoubtedly, it deserves to be widely recognized as a protest anthem, as it successfully addresses the woes of the regular citizens—especially those in the middle and lower classes through its precise depiction of the poor living conditions that comes with poverty, in contrast to the thriving life of the supposedly “servants” of the country.

Sixteen years later, the song remains timely and relevant. A proof that our country is still drowning in injustice, where the poor sinks at the bottom while those in power remain afloat, within the comfort of their abuse and embezzlements.

“Kung makikita ko lamang siya ay aking sisigawan”

Upuan has once again resurfaced on various social media platforms, with netizens sharing the same sentiments of the song. It has become a critical response to the absurdly luxurious lives of political families amidst the corruption and neglect in flood control projects which has been increasingly felt due to the consecutive days of rain, hand in hand with flooding cities and leaving the masses utterly helpless.

Gloc-9’s metaphorical lyrics serve as an outcry against all the wrongdoings of those who possess power, specifically those who prioritize fulfilling their privileged lives through the tax payers’ money. Many are disappointed, but not surprised at how uncanny the resemblance of the song is in our current situation. Politics in the Philippines has always been like that—may it be 16 years or decades ago.

The fast-paced rap and rhythmic tensions of the song perfectly mirrored its intent: a resounding voice that urges us to fight for what is right. Aside from being a catchy and interesting song, this timeless piece will be remembered as a wake up call to continue standing up for our country and to not easily trust those who are fighting for the “upuan.”