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Artist Club
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Paul Galang (Pol Galang): Voice of the People, Song of Hope
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Paul Galang, also known as Pol Galang, is a Filipino Christian missionary, folksinger-songwriter, and a revered people’s artist whose musical journey began in the 1970s. Known for his powerful songs about nationalism, peace, justice, and human rights, Galang continues to inspire generations with his unwavering commitment to both art and advocacy.
Galang rose to prominence with his deeply patriotic and socially conscious compositions. He was one of the ten finalists in the 1979 Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Likha Awit Pambata Songwriting Festival for his song "Isang Panawagan." A year later, in 1980, he received a special award in the 3rd Metro Manila Popular Music Festival for "Alamat ng Pilipino," recognized for its innovative blend of Filipino ethnic folk-rock and strong nationalist themes.
In 1987, he became a finalist in the KBP Songwriting Festival with "Haranahin ang Mundo," a heartfelt plea for harmony and healing through music. His message of hope crossed borders in 1990 when he co-wrote "Mapayapang Daigdig" with his children, Aga and Sol. The song was translated into Japanese and Korean, becoming an anthem for peace movements across Asia, especially in Japan.
Galang’s presence has graced numerous justice and peace concerts, both locally and internationally—from the Philippines to Japan, and throughout Europe and the Asia Pacific region. In 2003, his song “Tulay”, interpreted by Jolina Magdangal, was selected as a finalist in the GMA 7 Metro Pop Music Festival, further cementing his place in the pantheon of respected Filipino songwriters.
This year, Galang collaborated with internationally recognized folk artist Elito Circa, also known as Amangpintor, for a groundbreaking campaign merging art and civic engagement. Together, they unveiled a powerful 5x6ft blood-on-canvas painting inspired by Galang’s latest voter education song, “Eleksyon Na, Mag-isip Ka.”
The artwork portrays a vertically split Philippine flag with the sun and three stars at the top—red on the left, symbolizing corruption, dynasties, conflict, and suffering; and blue on the right, representing hope, good governance, and prosperity. At the center, a mother casts her vote while cradling her child, surrounded by other voters—some bribed, others defiant. The message is urgent: “Heaven will smile when the corrupt are defeated.”
Produced and arranged by Mandi Ferrer, the song and its accompanying painting underscore Galang’s timeless advocacy: using music and art as instruments for social change.
Today, Paul Galang continues his mission as the Executive Director of Abakadang Kayumanggi Community Development Foundation, an NGO based in Malabon and Caloocan. The foundation provides education, daily school-based feeding programs, and livelihood training for youth and women in underserved informal settler's communities.
A tireless advocate, an artist for the people, and a servant-leader through faith, Paul Galang remains a living testament to the enduring power of art with a purpose.
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Samahang Makasining (Artist Club), Inc.
Artist Club of the Philippines
email: info@makasining.org
Copyright 2007 Samahang Makasining (Artist Club), Inc.
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