The Battle for the Spotlight: Why Mindanao’s Local Talent Deserves More?

By Kemberly Resentes | Mindanao People’s Press

There is no shortage of talent in Mindanao. Across our region, we find singers, indie artists, and bands who carry not just microphones and instruments but responsibilities. Many are breadwinners, juggling side jobs while staying true to their passion for music and art. Some perform late nights, then wake up early for work the next day. Others self-produce their songs with what little they have, often without consistent support from agencies or local industries.

Despite this, their voices continue to rise raw, real, and rooted in experience. They sing about struggles, love, community, and identity. They write lyrics in the language of the streets, in the rhythm of our daily lives. Yet, even with this authenticity, many of them remain unheard.

According to a 2022 cultural mapping study by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), many regional artists across the country feel disconnected from the national creative economy, citing limited exposure, lack of government support, and cultural centralization (NCCA, Cultural Mapping Reports 2022). This is especially true for independent artists in Mindanao who experiment with non-mainstream genres like metal, synthpop, jazz-fusion, spoken word, indie rock, and acoustic soul forms of music that don't always appeal to mass audiences or commercial platforms.

Some choose to leave Mindanao altogether in search of better opportunities. It's heartbreaking that many of our own feel they need to go far just to be taken seriously. And often, a single clap, a small gesture of support, could’ve made a difference.

Let’s also be real: Naay uban nga local artists nga dali ra mo dako ang ulo. Pride and competition sometimes get in the way of community growth. Instead of building each other up, some fall into the trap of comparison. But art is not a race it’s a language. Kung kita-kita pa lang gani dili magtinabangay, how can we expect others to support us?

But there's another issue at hand: some people continue to mock local artists, and even worse, there is a growing demand for “barat” or cheap singers and bands. The truth is, music is expensive. Artists need to invest in themselves not just in instruments and equipment, but in their appearance, wardrobe, and the quality of their performance. They also need support for basic needs like food and fare. So, when we seek out cheaper alternatives, we’re undervaluing their efforts and perpetuating a culture of exploitation.

This message is for those who remain grounded, consistent, and purpose-driven. The artists who uplift others, the ones who rehearse in borrowed spaces, who sell merchandise to fund their studio time, who support fellow musicians online, even when they themselves are struggling. These are the voices we must amplify.

As reported in a 2021 feature by BusinessWorld, even during the pandemic, “regional musicians, despite little to no backing, sustained the creative energy of the Philippine music scene online hosting small gigs, releasing EPs, and building community through music.” This proves what we already know: talent is not limited by geography but access is.

At Mindanao People’s Press, we believe that in truth, we prevail as a people, as a region, and as a nation under God. And part of that truth is recognizing the value of genuine Mindanawon artists who persevere through the silence, not for fame, but for their calling.

Supporting local means more than attending shows or reposting viral content. It means believing in those who work quietly behind the scenes, those who stay true to their craft despite little applause. It means saying: “Tanan ta pwede modaug kung magtinabangay ta.”

Let us not wait for others to validate them. Let us be their first believers.

Support local. Celebrate humility. Amplify real talent.
Kay kung dili kita ang maminaw sa ilang tingog kinsa man?

Template photos courtesy of:
Trisha Dela Cerna, Soriano Band, Fluminus Band, Nufsed Band, Omaira Bayan, No Name Band, John Mancio, AI SA

Sources:
National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). Cultural Mapping Reports: Regional Challenges in Arts Access, 2022.
BusinessWorld. “How Regional Artists Kept Philippine Music Alive During the Pandemic.” July 2021.