‘Use music to end bullying’: BM Donaal urges young artists in Kalinga to lead fight against violence

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Young musicians should use their voices and talents to help combat bullying, violence, and other social issues instead of limiting their influence to entertainment, Kalinga Board Member Christopher Donaal said during the Youth Pasiklaban Inter-School Battle of the Bands on June 23 at the Tabuk City People's Gymnasium.

Addressing aspiring musicians from different schools, Donaal emphasized that artists have the power to inspire positive change and should become advocates for peace, respect, and social responsibility among the youth.

The competition gathered aspiring musicians from Kalinga State University, Saint William Academy, St. Tonis College Inc., ISAP-Kalinga, Tabuk City National High School, and STS Tabuk, showcasing their musical talent, creativity, and stage presence.

During the awarding ceremony, the Kalinga State University band emerged as champion, while King of Spades of St. Tonis College Inc. secured second place. The winning bands received cash prizes of P12,000 and P11,000, respectively.

Speaking before the participants, Donaal encouraged the young artists to compose songs that promote peace and discourage violence and bullying in schools.

"Musicians, you are advocates, you should be at forefront of issues about bullying. Diyay man ti maysa nga kitan yu ta ag titinnulong tayo nga isardeng ti bullying iti school...next time ag surat kayo man met ti songs about being peaceful, being against violence in any form, and being against corruption," said Donaal.

The provincial legislator pointed out that bullying remains one of the most persistent challenges facing schools and stressed that solving the problem requires the collective efforts of educators, parents, community leaders, and the students themselves.

"Dayta ti maysa nga problema ti educational system tayo nga haan masolbar. Deped cannot solve that because it is up to us, dakami nga manung yu, dakami nga parents yu, dakayu mismo nga leaders," he added.

Donaal's appeal comes amid recent incidents of youth violence, including the fatal shooting of three students in Tacloban City and a stabbing incident in Kalinga that claimed the life of a 21-year-old student.

The board member said these incidents underscore the need for young people to use their influence positively, reminding aspiring musicians that their music can help foster peace, respect, and a culture that rejects bullying and violence.