25/04/2026
: BAGANI (Cebu Version) Shoot
Exactly today, we shot the MTV for the Cebuano version of “Bagani”—the official theme song of the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines.
Looking back, it wasn’t just another project. It was one of those that quietly stays with you.
Bagani—a word that means warrior and leader—reminded us of our roots. Of who we are as Filipinos. Of stories we grew up with, like the Battle of Mactan and the courage of Lapulapu.
But at that time, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, it felt different. More real. So we chose to tell it in a way that connected the past to the present—highlighting not just heroes from history, but the modern-day heroes around us. Frontliners. Essential workers. Ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
And even now, that message still hits.
The Cebuano version, produced by the Cebu City Government, made it even more personal—hearing it in our own language just hits differently.
Cebuano translation by Erlinda Alburo
Interpreted by Thor Dulay
Musical Arrangement by Dominic Benedicto
Guitars by Janno Queyquep
Musical Producer: Barney Borja
Produced through CHAO, led by Bryner Laurito Diaz, with the support of Maru Salvatierra and Edgar Labella.
MTV Creative Direction by Steven Sasam of Green Concepts and Events, with Jino Laña, Donald Bolivar, Jojie Ann Sy, Laile Medalle, Joy Ablaneda, John Guaren, and our full production team led by Arneil Dawal with Papa P, Chis, Eddie Mar, and team.
Special thanks to all the talents—including government employees who joined the walking scene (we had to take it several times to get it right 😅)—and the teams from CHAO and the Mayor’s Office who took care of us on set.
Simple project on paper—but looking back, it meant a lot.
And up to now, it still does.
🎥 Below is the link to the full video.
If you were part of this shoot or recognize someone in the video, tag them—we’d love to reconnect and remember this moment together.