By Noel Galon de Leon

Kinaray-a music is not merely a genre but a living expression of identity rooted in the Kinaray-a-speaking communities of Panay Island. It carries the emotional weight of everyday life, from love and longing to labor and loss, articulated in a language often overlooked in mainstream Filipino culture. Historically, it emerged organically through folk traditions, oral storytelling, and community gatherings long before it found formal recognition in recorded music. Its beginnings cannot be pinned to a single year because it evolved gradually, shaped by generations of singers and poets. Today, however, its survival depends on deliberate effort, as modern influences threaten to dilute its authenticity.

The present condition of Kinaray-a music is both hopeful and precarious, reflecting a paradox that defines many regional art forms. On one hand, there is a revival and renewed interest among younger artists who are rediscovering their linguistic roots. On the other hand, the dominance of mainstream languages in media continues to overshadow it. Digital platforms provide exposure, yet they also expose artists to exploitation and misrepresentation. The music exists in a fragile ecosystem where recognition does not always translate into protection or sustainability.

The challenges facing Kinaray-a music today are deeply intertwined with issues of visibility, funding, and cultural respect. Many artists struggle to gain access to recording opportunities and distribution channels that favor more commercial languages. There is also the persistent misconception that regional music lacks sophistication or market value. This prejudice limits both audience reach and institutional support. As a result, artists must constantly fight not only for recognition but also for the legitimacy of their craft.

Despite these challenges, there have been significant achievements that demonstrate the resilience of the Kinaray-a music community. Events supported by organizations like the National Commission for Culture and the Arts have provided platforms for original compositions. Independent musicians have also leveraged social media to build audiences beyond their immediate regions. Collaborative efforts among writers, composers, and performers have strengthened the creative network. These achievements suggest that while the road is difficult, it is far from hopeless.

Dante Beriong stands as one of the most important figures in this evolving landscape of Kinaray-a music. He is not simply a performer but a storyteller whose voice captures the emotional depth of his community. His work resonates because it speaks in a language that many feel but rarely hear in mainstream media. Through his songs, he has preserved narratives that might otherwise fade into obscurity. His presence in the industry is both cultural and symbolic.

To ask whether Dante Beriong can be considered an icon is to confront the criteria we use to define cultural significance. In mainstream terms, icons are often measured by commercial success and widespread recognition. However, in the context of Kinaray-a music, impact is measured by authenticity, influence, and cultural preservation. By these standards, Beriong’s contributions are undeniably iconic. He embodies the voice of a community that continues to assert its identity.

The songs popularized by Dante Beriong are deeply rooted in themes that reflect everyday realities and emotional truths. His music often explores love in its most sincere and painful forms, portraying relationships with raw honesty. He also addresses themes of migration, longing for home, and the struggles of rural life. These narratives resonate because they are not abstract but grounded in lived experience. His songwriting transforms personal stories into collective memory.

Beyond thematic depth, Beriong’s music is characterized by its linguistic integrity and emotional delivery. He does not dilute the Kinaray-a language to make it more accessible, but instead invites listeners to engage with it fully. This decision is both artistic and political, asserting the value of the language itself. His vocal style carries a sincerity that cannot be easily replicated. It is precisely this authenticity that makes his work vulnerable to exploitation.

In recent developments, Dante Beriong himself expressed his distress publicly through his Facebook account after learning about what was being done to his music. He shared his frustration and disappointment upon discovering that altered versions of his songs were circulating without his consent. The news reportedly reached him through various sources, making the situation even more painful as it unfolded beyond his control. His statement reflected not only anger but also a deep sense of betrayal. It was a moment that revealed how personal and emotional this issue truly is for the artist.

The rise of artificial intelligence has introduced a new and deeply troubling dimension to the challenges faced by artists like Beriong. Technologies such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Claude have made it easier to generate content that mimics human creativity. While these tools have legitimate uses, they also enable the unauthorized reproduction and alteration of artistic works. In Beriong’s case, his songs have been reimagined without consent. This raises serious ethical and legal questions.

What makes the situation even more painful is that these AI-generated versions are sometimes monetized by individuals who have no connection to the original artist. This is not merely a technical issue but a moral failure within the creative community. The act of profiting from someone else’s work without permission undermines the very foundation of artistic integrity. It transforms creativity into exploitation. For an artist like Beriong, it is both a personal and cultural violation.

The fact that some of these actions are carried out by fellow artists makes the issue even more complex and disturbing. It suggests a breakdown of solidarity within the music industry. Instead of supporting one another, some individuals choose to exploit technological tools for personal gain. This behavior erodes trust and weakens the collective effort to preserve Kinaray-a music. It creates an environment where creativity is no longer safe.

Proper etiquette in using a local artist’s music begins with the most basic principle which is respect. This includes seeking permission before using, adapting, or distributing any part of their work. It also involves acknowledging the artist’s contribution and ensuring they are fairly compensated. These practices are not optional but essential to maintaining ethical standards. Without them, the industry risks descending into disorder and exploitation.

Payment is not merely a transactional obligation but a recognition of the artist’s labor and creativity. When artists are compensated, it affirms the value of their work and encourages continued production. Conversely, failure to pay undermines their livelihood and discourages future creative expression. In the context of Kinaray-a music, where resources are already limited, this issue becomes even more critical. Financial respect is inseparable from cultural respect.

Copyright is a legal framework designed to protect the rights of creators over their original works. It grants artists exclusive control over how their music is used, reproduced, and distributed. This protection is essential in preventing unauthorized exploitation. However, the effectiveness of copyright depends on enforcement and awareness. Many local artists lack access to legal resources, making them vulnerable to abuse.

Moral rights, on the other hand, focus on the personal connection between the artist and their work. These rights include the right to attribution and the right to protect the integrity of the work. In Beriong’s case, AI-generated alterations can distort the original meaning of his songs. This not only misrepresents the artist but also misleads the audience. Moral rights ensure that artistic identity is preserved even in a changing technological environment.

There are also other forms of rights that artists must navigate, including performance rights and mechanical rights. These determine how music can be performed publicly or reproduced in recordings. Understanding these rights is crucial for both artists and users of music. Without this knowledge, unintentional violations can occur and escalate into larger conflicts. Education in this area is urgently needed within the local music industry.

The current situation in the local music industry is undeniably alarming, particularly for niche genres like Kinaray-a music. While technology offers opportunities, it also introduces risks that were previously unimaginable. The misuse of AI tools highlights gaps in regulation and awareness. These gaps must be addressed before further damage is done to both artists and cultural heritage. Otherwise, the consequences could become deeply entrenched and difficult to reverse.

It is important to clarify that artificial intelligence itself is not inherently destructive to the music industry. In fact, it has the potential to enhance creativity and accessibility when used responsibly. The problem lies in how it is used and the intentions behind its application. When deployed without ethical consideration, it becomes a tool for exploitation rather than innovation. Responsibility must remain at the center of technological use.

The fear is not that AI will completely erase Kinaray-a music, but that it will weaken its foundations over time. Cultural forms rarely disappear overnight because they erode gradually through repeated neglect and misuse. Each act of exploitation contributes to this erosion and normalizes unethical practices. Over time, the cumulative effect can be devastating for both artists and audiences. This is the danger that must be acknowledged and confronted.

The fragmentation of the local music industry is another potential consequence of these developments. When trust is broken, collaboration becomes difficult and creative communities begin to divide. Artists may become more guarded and less willing to share their work openly. This isolation can stifle creativity and limit opportunities for innovation. A divided community cannot sustain a vibrant cultural movement.

The weakening of the industry also affects audiences, who may struggle to distinguish authentic works from manipulated ones. This confusion undermines appreciation for genuine artistry and erodes trust in musical content. It also diminishes the emotional impact that authentic performances are meant to deliver. Authenticity becomes harder to recognize in a landscape filled with imitations. This is a loss not just for artists but for listeners who seek meaningful connections.

Protecting Dante Beriong is therefore not just about defending one individual. It is about safeguarding an entire cultural tradition that relies on authenticity and respect. His music represents a larger narrative that extends beyond personal expression and into collective identity. Losing that would mean losing a piece of cultural memory that cannot be easily replaced. The stakes are profoundly significant for future generations.

Support for original Kinaray-a music must go beyond passive appreciation and casual listening. It requires active engagement, including attending performances and purchasing legitimate recordings. Audiences play a crucial role in sustaining the industry and shaping its direction. Their choices directly impact the survival and growth of the music. Support must be intentional, consistent, and informed.

Educational institutions also have a role to play in preserving Kinaray-a music and culture. By incorporating it into curricula, they can foster appreciation among younger generations. This exposure can inspire future artists who will continue the tradition. Education becomes a bridge that connects past and present cultural expressions. It ensures continuity and resilience across generations.

Government and cultural organizations must strengthen policies that protect local artists from exploitation. This includes enforcing copyright laws and providing accessible legal assistance. Without institutional support, individual efforts may not be enough to address systemic issues. Policy must align with cultural preservation goals and respond to modern challenges. Action is needed at multiple levels to create lasting change.

The media also bears responsibility in promoting and protecting Kinaray-a music within a broader cultural landscape. By giving it visibility, they can challenge misconceptions and expand its audience reach. Responsible reporting can highlight issues like AI exploitation and advocate for ethical practices. Awareness is the first step toward meaningful change. Media influence should be used to uplift rather than exploit.

Artists themselves must also engage in dialogue about ethical practices within the industry. Peer accountability can help prevent exploitation and encourage responsible behavior. By setting standards, they can create a more supportive and respectful environment. Collaboration should be built on mutual respect and shared values. This is essential for long term sustainability and growth.

The future of Kinaray-a music depends on collective action and shared responsibility among all stakeholders. No single entity can address all the challenges it faces in isolation. It requires cooperation among artists, audiences, institutions, and policymakers. Each has a role to play in shaping the outcome and protecting cultural heritage. The future remains uncertain but still open to possibility.

The story of Dante Beriong and Kinaray-a music is a story of resilience under pressure and transformation in a changing world. It is a reminder that cultural preservation is not automatic but requires constant vigilance and effort. The threats posed by AI and unethical practices are real, but they can still be addressed with integrity and collective action.. What matters most is the willingness to protect what is authentic and meaningful. If that commitment is sustained, the music will continue to inspire and endure across generations.

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Noel Galon de Leon is a writer and professor at the University of the Philippines Visayas, where he teaches in the Division of Professional Education and at UP High School in Iloilo. He is also the Secretary of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts-National Committee on Literary Arts.