Every April 9, the Philippines pauses to honor the bravery of Filipino and American soldiers who fought and died during the Battle of Bataan and the infamous Bataan Death March of 1942 — a solemn occasion officially known as Araw ng Kagitingan, or the Day of Valor. As one of the most deeply felt national holidays in the country, it is a time for reflection, gratitude, and patriotic pride. One of the most powerful ways Filipinos express that pride is through music. Whether played at school programs, community ceremonies, or your own personal playlist, the right songs for Araw ng Kagitingan can stir the soul and deepen the meaning of this important day. In this GlobalMusicVibe guide, we have compiled the 20 best Filipino patriotic songs — including enduring classics and newer releases — that every Filipino should have on their playlist this Day of Valor.
What Is Araw ng Kagitingan and Why Does Music Matter?
Araw ng Kagitingan commemorates the fall of the Bataan Peninsula on April 9, 1942, when Major General Edward P. King Jr. surrendered more than 76,000 Filipino and American soldiers to Japanese forces during World War II. Following the surrender, prisoners of war were forced to endure a grueling 140-kilometer trek to Camp O’Donnell in Capas, Tarlac — a march that cost thousands of lives and became known globally as the Bataan Death March. Originally declared as Bataan Day through Republic Act No. 3022 in 1961, the holiday was officially renamed Araw ng Kagitingan in 1987 under Executive Order No. 203. Today, the main commemoration takes place at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan, attended by the Philippine president, military officials, veterans, and citizens nationwide.
Music has always been woven into the fabric of Filipino resilience. From kundiman ballads sung during the occupation to modern rock anthems shouted at rallies, song has been the language of Filipino courage across generations. Exploring the best OPM patriotic songs for this occasion is not just about entertainment — it is about keeping the spirit of kagitingan alive in the hearts of every Filipino, young and old.
Lupang Hinirang – Philippine National Anthem
No playlist for Araw ng Kagitingan would be complete without “Lupang Hinirang,” the official national anthem of the Philippines. Its music was composed in 1898 by Julián Felipe and first performed during the proclamation of Philippine independence at Emilio Aguinaldo’s residence in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898. The current Tagalog lyrics were written by Felipe Padilla de León and officially adopted in 1956 under Republic Act No. 8491. Its opening lines — “Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan” — ring out at every Araw ng Kagitingan ceremony across the country, reminding Filipinos of the nation their heroes fought to protect, and multiple stirring versions are available on YouTube.
Bayan Ko – Freddie Aguilar
“Bayan Ko” is a kundiman originally composed in 1928 by Constancio de Guzman with lyrics by poet José Corazón de Jesús, and is widely considered the unofficial second national anthem of the Philippines. The most iconic recording is that of folk legend Freddie Aguilar, who first recorded it in 1978 and whose raw, soulful rendition became the protest anthem of the 1986 People Power Revolution — he famously sang it at the funeral of Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. in 1983. As a song that has been sung in protest marches against foreign occupation and authoritarian rule, its deeply patriotic lyrics about the longing for a free and sovereign Philippines make it a defining inclusion in any Araw ng Kagitingan playlist. It is easily found on YouTube with millions of views that speak to its timeless emotional power.
Noypi – Bamboo
Released as the lead single from Bamboo’s debut album “As The Music Plays” in 2004, “Noypi” is widely regarded as the anthem that revived Filipino rock patriotism in the modern era. The song — whose title is a Pig Latin-style inversion of “Pinoy” — delivers a thunderous declaration of national pride with the iconic opening line “Hoy, Pinoy ako, buo aking loob, may agimat ang dugo ko.” Lead vocalist Bamboo Mañalac brought a rock-fueled intensity to the concept of national identity that resonated deeply with Filipino youth both at home and abroad. “Noypi” has been a staple of patriotic school programs, rallies, and Independence Day celebrations ever since its release, and its official music video on YouTube continues to rack up millions of streams each year.
Pilipinas Kong Mahal – Francisco Santiago
Composed by National Artist Francisco Santiago with lyrics by Ildefonso Santos, “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” is one of the oldest and most enduring patriotic songs in the Filipino repertoire. Originally adapted from an earlier melody, Santiago revised the tune and Santos crafted the Tagalog lyrics into a timeless ode to the motherland that has been taught in Philippine schools for generations. The song is commonly performed at school programs during national holidays including Araw ng Kagitingan, and numerous choral and solo versions are available on YouTube. Its dignified, classical tone captures the solemnity of the Day of Valor perfectly, making it a mainstay in commemorative events throughout the Philippines.
Ako ay Pilipino – Kuh Ledesma
Penned and composed by the legendary George Canseco — who was declared a National Artist for Music in 1999 — “Ako ay Pilipino” is one of the most beloved Filipino patriotic songs of the 1980s, brought to life with striking vocal power by Kuh Ledesma. The song proudly celebrates Filipino heritage and identity, with its unforgettable refrain “Ako ay Pilipino, taas noo kahit kanino, ang Pilipino ay ako” becoming a rallying cry for national pride across generations. Canseco crafted the song to encourage Filipinos to use their talents for the good of the country and to never bow their heads before anyone. The original music video and live performances by Kuh Ledesma are easily accessible on YouTube, and the song remains a powerful choice for any Araw ng Kagitingan playlist.
Magkaisa – Virna Lisa
Composed by Tito Sotto with lyrics by Ernie de la Peña, “Magkaisa” was born in the midst of the EDSA People Power Revolution in February 1986, recorded by then-newcomer Virna Lisa and released on March 1 of that year. The song became the unofficial musical anthem of the Cory Aquino administration, capturing the euphoria and unity of a nation that had just peacefully reclaimed its democracy. Its chorus — “Magkaisa, may pag-asa kang matatanaw, at magsama, bagong umaga, bagong araw” — speaks of hope, solidarity, and a new dawn that is equally resonant when commemorating the sacrifices remembered on Araw ng Kagitingan. The song is widely available on YouTube and continues to move Filipinos whenever it is played at national observances.
Isang Bandila – Rivermaya
“Isang Bandila” was written by Rico Blanco and performed by Filipino rock band Rivermaya, released in 2006 on their album “Isang Ugat, Isang Dugo.” The song became widely known as the opening theme of ABS-CBN’s late-night news program Bandila, where it aired from 2006 to 2018, and its driving rock sound and patriotic lyrics — “Isang ugat, isang dugo, isang pangalan, Pilipino” — made it one of the most recognizable Filipino unity anthems of the 2000s. Its message emphasizing a shared Filipino heritage, identity, and collective purpose makes it especially fitting for Araw ng Kagitingan observances. The official music video and recordings are available on YouTube and on Spotify, where it appears in Rivermaya’s 18 Greatest Hits collection.
Mga Kababayan Ko – Francis Magalona
The late rap icon Francis Magalona — widely known as the “Master Rapper” or “FrancisM” — established his legacy with the debut single “Mga Kababayan Ko” from his 1990 album “Yo!” which became a watershed moment for Filipino hip-hop and patriotism. The song was a bold, energetic call to his fellow Filipinos to take pride in their roots, their culture, and their nation, delivered over a hip-hop beat that was unlike anything heard in OPM at the time. Francis Magalona went on to become one of the most celebrated and patriotic voices in Philippine music history, and “Mga Kababayan Ko” remains his defining anthem. The music video is preserved on YouTube in tribute to the artist who passed away in 2009, and it stands as one of the most important songs for any Araw ng Kagitingan playlist.
Bayan Ko (Asin Version) – Asin
Folk-rock group Asin — composed of Pendong Aban, Nonoy Pillora Jr., Sara Banares, and Lolita Carbon — recorded a deeply moving rendition of “Bayan Ko” that stands apart from Freddie Aguilar’s more famous version for its folk-rock arrangement and earthy, communal feel. According to Wikipedia’s entry on the song, Asin’s rendition included another de Jesús work, “Kay Sarap Mabuhay Sa Sariling Bayan,” as a preluding stanza before the main lyrics, giving it a unique structure found nowhere else. This version is available on YouTube and is especially meaningful during commemorations like Araw ng Kagitingan, when Filipinos reflect on freedom and the price of sacrifice.
Ang Bayan Kong Sinilangan – Asin
“Ang Bayan Kong Sinilangan” is one of the signature songs of Asin, composed and performed by the folk-rock group in 1978, and it stands out among Filipino patriotic songs for its willingness to address the grim realities of armed conflict in the country rather than simply celebrate idealized notions of nationhood. The song takes a hard and honest look at war and its toll on ordinary Filipinos, giving it a weight and gravitas that resonates especially on a day like Araw ng Kagitingan, which commemorates real loss and suffering. Lolita Carbon’s vocals are particularly haunting in this track, delivering the social commentary with both beauty and urgency. The song is available on YouTube and is considered one of Asin’s most important contributions to Filipino music, offering a sobering but equally valid form of patriotic reflection.
Manila – Hotdog
Released in the 1970s by disco-rock band Hotdog, “Manila” is one of the most distinctive Filipino songs about the longing for home and the unique, chaotic beauty of life in the Philippine capital. The song — which became Hotdog’s signature track — paints vivid images of third-world streets, speeding jeepneys, and the unmistakable energy of Manila, making it an ode to the everyday Filipino experience that is as patriotic in its own way as any formal anthem. Though lighthearted in tone compared to many entries on this list, “Manila” captures the emotional bond that Filipinos feel toward their homeland, which is at the heart of the Araw ng Kagitingan spirit. The original recording by Hotdog is available on YouTube and continues to be recognized as one of the most beloved pieces of OPM from the classic era.
Ako’y Isang Pinoy – Florante
Folk rock icon Florante de Leon wrote and recorded “Ako’y Isang Pinoy” in 1977, and it quickly became one of the most beloved expressions of everyday Filipino identity in the OPM catalog. Unlike more formal patriotic hymns, the song speaks to pride in being Filipino from the perspective of the common man — celebrating the simple joys, the resilience, and the dignified spirit of ordinary Pinoys who live and love their country day by day. Florante was a key figure in the Filipino folk-rock movement of the 1970s, and his honest, heartfelt songwriting gave “Ako’y Isang Pinoy” an authenticity that resonates just as strongly today. It is available on YouTube and serves as a warm, human counterpoint to the more solemn songs that typically mark Araw ng Kagitingan observances.
The Apl Song – apl.de.ap (Black Eyed Peas)
“The Apl Song” by Allan Pineda Lindo — better known as apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas — is a rare example of a Filipino patriotic song that found its way onto a globally successful album, appearing on the group’s 2003 record “Elephunk.” The song is a nostalgic and personal account of apl.de.ap’s upbringing in the Philippines, describing life in his hometown and the resilience of the Filipino people with sincere lyrics, and even sampling the opening vocals of Asin’s song “Balita.” Its international platform gave it special significance for Filipino communities worldwide, and it remains a proud symbol of the Filipino diaspora’s connection to the homeland. The music video and audio are available on YouTube, and the song’s message of holding onto one’s roots while thriving abroad aligns deeply with the spirit of Araw ng Kagitingan.
Tayo’y Mga Pilipino – Heber Bartolome
Written and performed by folk singer and activist Heber Bartolome, “Tayo’y Mga Pilipino” is a classic OPM song that became an anthem of Filipino unity and cultural pride, premiering as a finalist at the first Metropop Song Festival in 1978. Bartolome was known for his politically conscious songwriting, and this track encouraged Filipinos to embrace their shared national identity above regional and political divisions. Its warm, folk-guitar-driven arrangement and communal chorus made it a staple in schools and community programs for decades, and many Filipinos have deep emotional memories tied to it. Multiple versions and performances are accessible on YouTube, and the song remains a meaningful addition to any Araw ng Kagitingan playlist focused on the theme of unity in the face of adversity.
Ang Himig Natin – Juan de la Cruz Band
Composed by the Juan de la Cruz Band — consisting of Mike Hanopol, Joey Smith, and Wally Gonzales — “Ang Himig Natin” was released in 1973 and became a landmark track in the history of Filipino rock music, widely credited as one of the songs that launched the Pinoy Rock movement. The song’s plaintive plea for unity calls for Filipinos to come together in a spirit of shared hope, combining Tagalog lyrics with a Western rock melody in a way that felt authentically Filipino at the time. The track’s call for collective action and solidarity is timeless and particularly resonant during Araw ng Kagitingan, when the nation reflects on what it means to stand together. Available on YouTube, it is a must-listen for anyone building a patriotic OPM playlist — and those who want to hear every layer of these historic recordings can check out this headphones comparison guide to find the right listening gear.
Ipaglaban Mo – Apo Hiking Society
“Ipaglaban Mo” by the beloved Apo Hiking Society — composed of Jim Paredes, Danny Javier, and Boboy Garrovillo — is a stirring call to action and courage that has been a mainstay of Filipino patriotic culture since its release in the 1980s. The song urges Filipinos to stand up and fight for what is right, for their people, and for the future of their nation, embodying the very spirit of kagitingan (valor) that April 9 commemorates. Apo Hiking Society is one of the most celebrated and long-running groups in OPM history, and their catalog of nationalistic and socially conscious songs has shaped the musical identity of multiple Filipino generations. “Ipaglaban Mo” is widely available on YouTube and is a particularly fitting inclusion for Araw ng Kagitingan playlists that want to inspire rather than simply mourn.
Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo – Various Artists feat. Apo Hiking Society
“Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo” was written by Jim Paredes of the Apo Hiking Society and released in April 1986 as a benefit single for Radio Veritas — the Catholic radio station that played a pivotal role in broadcasting the EDSA People Power Revolution. The song was performed by a supergroup of 15 Filipino artists including Apo Hiking Society, Celeste Legaspi, Kuh Ledesma, Gretchen Barretto, and Freddie Aguilar, making it the Philippines’ answer to global charity singles like “We Are the World.” Its lyrics declare that peaceful democratic change is the Philippines’ greatest gift to the world — a message of nonviolent courage and national dignity that connects directly to the sacrifices remembered on Araw ng Kagitingan. The original music video is available on Jim Paredes’ YouTube channel, and an updated 2023 version featuring Elmo and Arkin Magalona was also released online.
Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas – Angeline Quinto feat. Vincent Bueno
“Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” was written by Robert Labayen and performed by Angeline Quinto and Vincent Bueno as the official theme song of the Choose Philippines campaign — a Department of Tourism-linked social media initiative that celebrated the natural beauty, warmth, and cultural richness of the Philippines. With its upbeat melody and lyrics describing the Philippine archipelago as a string of pearls set in a silken sea, the song became a beloved modern patriotic anthem that has since been covered and performed at national events across the country. Angeline Quinto, one of the most powerful voices in contemporary OPM, brings a joyful energy to the track that makes it perfect for uplifting Araw ng Kagitingan programs. The official music video is available on YouTube, and for those who want to enjoy the full richness of OPM on the go, this earbuds comparison guide is a great starting point.
Natutulog Ba Ang Diyos – Gary Valenciano
“Natutulog Ba Ang Diyos” is one of the most emotionally resonant songs in Gary Valenciano’s catalog, built around the question “Is God asleep?” — a cry of desperation from someone who feels overwhelmed by hardship and ready to give up. The song’s chorus turns the question into an affirmation of faith and resilience, urging the listener to strengthen their heart and trust in God rather than surrender, and assuring them that their life has value. Gary V., as he is affectionately known, has long been one of the most respected voices in OPM history, and this song has been widely embraced by Filipinos as an anthem of perseverance in difficult times. On Araw ng Kagitingan, its message of choosing courage over despair resonates deeply, and the song is readily available on YouTube.
Kanta Pilipinas – Lea Salonga
“Kanta Pilipinas,” composed by Kiko Salazar and performed by Tony Award-winning Filipino Broadway legend Lea Salonga, was the official theme song of TV5’s reality singing competition of the same name, which aired in 2012 and 2013. The song is an energetic and uplifting celebration of Filipino vocal talent, calling on Filipinos from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to come together and showcase the remarkable musical giftedness of the nation. Salonga — internationally acclaimed for her Broadway roles in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables and as the singing voice of Disney’s Princess Jasmine and Fa Mulan — brings unmatched vocal authority to the track. The official music video is available on YouTube and stands as a proud symbol of what Filipino artistry can achieve, making it a fitting and triumphant closing song for any Araw ng Kagitingan playlist.
Why These Songs Matter on Araw ng Kagitingan
The songs in this list span over a century of Filipino musical history, from the stately compositions of the early 1900s to the folk-rock anthems of the 1970s, the pop patriotism of the 1980s and 1990s, and the releases of the 2000s and beyond. What they share is a common thread of love for the Filipino nation, reverence for those who sacrificed, and a belief in the resilience of the Filipino people. Music scholars and cultural historians alike have noted that patriotic music in the Philippines does more than just commemorate the past — it actively shapes national identity and collective memory. Hearing “Bayan Ko” or “Noypi” at an Araw ng Kagitingan ceremony is not just a musical experience; it is an act of remembrance and renewal. Whether you are a student preparing for a school program, a teacher curating a playlist for your class, or simply a Filipino who wants to observe the Day of Valor in a meaningful way, these 20 songs offer a comprehensive and emotionally rich soundtrack to one of the most important days in the Philippine calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Araw ng Kagitingan?
Araw ng Kagitingan, also known as the Day of Valor, is a national public holiday in the Philippines observed every April 9. It commemorates the fall of the Bataan Peninsula during World War II on April 9, 1942, when over 76,000 Filipino and American soldiers surrendered to Japanese forces, leading to the infamous Bataan Death March. The holiday was officially established as Bataan Day in 1961 under Republic Act No. 3022 and renamed Araw ng Kagitingan in 1987 under Executive Order No. 203.
What are the most famous Filipino patriotic songs for Araw ng Kagitingan?
Some of the most iconic Filipino patriotic songs played during Araw ng Kagitingan include “Lupang Hinirang” (the national anthem), “Bayan Ko” by Freddie Aguilar, “Noypi” by Bamboo, “Magkaisa” by Virna Lisa, “Ako ay Pilipino” by Kuh Ledesma, and “Mga Kababayan Ko” by Francis Magalona. These songs represent different eras and genres of Filipino music but are all united by themes of national pride, freedom, and resilience.
Where is Araw ng Kagitingan mainly celebrated?
The main Araw ng Kagitingan commemoration is held at the Mount Samat National Shrine (also known as the Dambana ng Kagitingan) in Pilar, Bataan. The event is attended by the President of the Philippines, military officials, veterans’ groups, and the ambassadors of the United States and Japan. Smaller ceremonies and programs are also held at schools, community centers, and government offices across the country as part of the broader Philippine Veterans Week.
Are there new or recent OPM songs suitable for Araw ng Kagitingan?
Yes. While many of the most beloved patriotic songs are from earlier decades, newer releases have also contributed to the landscape of Filipino patriotic music. “Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” by Angeline Quinto and Vincent Bueno and “Kanta Pilipinas” by Lea Salonga are two modern patriotic songs with official music videos available on YouTube that connect younger Filipinos to the values of national pride and kagitingan.
Can I find all these Araw ng Kagitingan songs on YouTube?
Yes, all 20 songs listed in this GlobalMusicVibe guide are verified to be available on YouTube. From classic recordings of “Bayan Ko” by Freddie Aguilar to “Isang Bandila” by Rivermaya and “Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” by Angeline Quinto, Filipino patriotic music is well-represented on the platform. YouTube is an excellent free resource for building a playlist for Araw ng Kagitingan events, school programs, and personal listening.
What is the significance of music during the Day of Valor?
Music plays a vital role in Araw ng Kagitingan because it serves as both a medium of remembrance and a source of inspiration. Patriotic songs help Filipinos emotionally connect with the sacrifices of the soldiers who fought in Bataan and Corregidor, making history feel alive and personal rather than distant. They also reinforce shared national values — courage, unity, freedom, and love of country — that are central to the meaning of the Day of Valor.