ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2021, Senator Manny Pacquiao officially ended his boxing career. Apart from this big news for the global sports scene, one remarkable thing about the announcement was the launch of the boxing champ’s inspiring and powerful retirement song -- Isang Pacman Para sa Bayan.
The song, written and performed by Dabawenyo artist Ian Sison, received praises from the people especially those who have been following Pacquiao’s rags-to-riches journey.
“I was motivated to write a song for him because as a songwriter, I am also on a mission to write songs that inspire Filipinos, especially this time of pandemic. We really need a fuel that could unite us all. I hope I can inspire them with my songs. I am always about writing songs about love, hope, faith and spreading God's words through my passion,” he said.
But the three-time Star Awards nominee and winner for best rock album in 2016 shared that the song was half-finished before he met Pacquiao.
“I was inspired to finish the project after we met and he shared his purpose and vision with me. But honestly, at that time, I really didn't know that he was running for president,” Sison said.
Sison clarified that Manny was just the representation of the song but it is not entirely his. He said the song is meant for all the Filipino people’s hopes and struggles.
When asked if he was hesitant to do the project because it may taint him with political colors, the artist said in everything that he does, especially in music, to create division is never the goal.
“Honestly, for me, doing the song doesn't mean that I am making a political statement, like I don’t support the current administration. I did write a song for President Duterte together with Jay Durias of South border before. If people ask -- Whom do I support? I support the Filipino people, our country,” Sison shared.
He said beyond the political noise, he saw this opportunity to be part of a life story like that of Pacquiao that is inspiring, sending a message to many that no matter where you are today, you can get somewhere for as long as you worked hard and prayed for it.
Sison expressed he is proud to have become part of the historic journey of the country’s legend in boxing.
“It was an honor to be part of Pacquiao's historic career. To be part of history, for me it's a blessing and an opportunity. As a songwriter, I never thought that out of all the songwriters and singers in the country, I was chosen to do the task,” he said.
“As a Dabawenyo, Kidapaweño, Mindanaoan, I am proud of what I achieved. I am forever grateful,” Sison added.
Sison is a Filscap (Filipino Society of Composers, Authors, & Publishers) member since 2016. He is also the founder of Doctor Kid Foundation. Some of his other projects and releases are with Universal Records Philippines and Star Music Philippines. He is also one of the major producers of MG Productions and Rebel House Studios.