Journeyman Lead Singer In Trouble Over Rendition Of Philippine National Anthem In Pacquiao-Clottey Bout

Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines (AHN) – Like the previous title fights of Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao, the rendition of the Philippine national anthem before the bout courted controversy.

National Historical Institute Heraldry Section Chief Teddy Atienza said Sunday the institute will file a complaint against Journeyman lead singer Arnel Pineda for singing the anthem “Lupang Hinirang” with slightly different notes toward the end. Pineda was cheered for his rendition of the anthem by the more than 50,000 audience who watched the boxing match live at the Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Texas.

Pineda sung the last notes higher. While Pineda insisted he believes he had done nothing wrong because he sung the national anthem with all his heart, Atienza pointed to Republic Act 8491, which specified how the national anthem should be rendered. The RA said the anthem should not be sung in a different manner from its original tempo and tone.

This is not the first time that Filipino singers have been criticized by the NHI for their different version of “Lupang Hinirang.” Filipino singer Martin Nievera and Filipina singer Geneva Cruz are among the local artists who have been rapped by the NHI because they also rendered their versions of the national anthem in previous Pacquiao bouts.

Pineda said he would leave the matter with his lawyers. Some legal experts cited the anthem being sung on foreign shores, which would put in question the jurisdiction of the NHI over rendition of the anthem overseas.

Philippine Justice Secretary Alberto Agra said prosecutors will look into the matter after the NHI files a complaint against Pineda.

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