Filipino hip-hop artist Omar Baliw, whose real name is Omar Harry Balmes Manzano, has filed a formal complaint of copyright infringement against religious leader and senatorial aspirant Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
The case, filed on Monday, March 24, at the Pasig Hall of Justice, stems from the alleged unauthorized use of Omar’s song “K&B” during a political proclamation rally held by Quiboloy’s camp in Pasig City.
In an interview with the media following the filing, Omar expressed his desire to correct what he believes was a clear misuse of his work: “Gusto ko lang maitama ‘yung mga hindi tama,” he said.
According to Omar’s legal counsel, they had initially sent a demand letter to Quiboloy’s team requesting action regarding the unauthorized use of the song. A virtual meeting between the two parties reportedly followed, but Omar’s camp claimed they received no further response—prompting them to pursue legal action.
The controversy first surfaced online in February 2025 when Omar publicly slammed the use of his music without permission.
“Di pa nakaupo, nagnakaw na agad. Wala kameng kinalaman dito. Pwede ba to ipa-barangay? Hahaha. Awit,” he wrote in a Facebook post, referring to the unauthorized performance of “K&B” at the event.
Omar emphasized that neither he nor his team had any involvement with the political rally or Quiboloy’s campaign, saying: “Ganito ang pinsala pag maling impormasyon ang makakarating sa tao. Uulitin ko ulit, wala kameng kinalaman dyan. Ninakaw ang music namin at binaboy.”
To further assert his claim, the artist also posted a video of himself performing the song, captioned, “Eto legit.”
As of this writing, Pastor Quiboloy’s camp has yet to issue an official statement or response regarding the case.
LionhearTV remains open to airing the side of Pastor Quiboloy on this issue.
