International singer Rockwell Ryan Ripperger (aka Stephen Speaks), the voice behind the hit song “Passenger Seat,” lauded former Senator and independent senatorial candidate Bam Aquino and a group of Filipino singers for their initiative to craft policies that will benefit musicians in the Philippines.
On his Facebook account, Rockwell Ryan shared an article about Bam and various Filipino musicians from the hiphop, urban, and rock music industries, commending their effort to push for reforms that can uplift and protect artists.
Artists who joined the meeting with Bam included DJ Medmessiah, Morobeats, Pio Balbuena, Chelsea Alley (formerly of Slapshock), and P-Pop girl group YARA.
“My music attorney Mark Piad is seen here with my friend Lean from Slapshock, meeting with former senator Bam Aquino to work on policies that benefit musicians in the Philippines,” said Rockwell Ryan.
“Very cool. I would love to see this sort of thing happening in the US. Keep up with the good work, fellas,” he added.
Bam responded with “thank you for sharing this, Stephen Speaks,” to which the singer replied “Bam Aquino, you are very much welcome sir.”
In his meeting with musicians, Bam committed to pushing for policies that will promote the welfare of musicians, ensuring that their livelihood and their works are protected.
“Magbabalangkas tayo ng mga polisiya upang matiyak ang kabuhayan ng ating mga musician at matiyak na protektado ang kanilang mga pinaghirapang obra sa pamamagitan ng pinalakas na intellectual property,” Bam told the musicians.
The musicians welcomed Bam’s pronouncement and expressed willingness to support his candidacy in the upcoming May polls, hoping that he could serve as a voice for the protection and welfare of the music industry.
If elected, Bam plans to expand the free college law and ensure guaranteed jobs for Filipinos, including out-of-school youth.
