CinemaBravo

Rockwell Ryan Ripperger, the international singer behind the 2000s hit “Passenger Seat” and known by his stage name Stephen Speaks, expressed support for former senator and current independent senatorial candidate Bam Aquino, along with several Filipino artists, for their efforts to push for music industry reforms in the Philippines.

In a recent Facebook post, Rockwell Ryan shared an article about a dialogue led by Bam with musicians from the country’s hip-hop, urban, and rock scenes. The American artist praised the initiative, highlighting how it could positively impact Filipino creatives.

“I think this is amazing. I’ve been hoping to see this kind of thing happen in the Philippines for over a decade,” he wrote. “I think this is amazing. I’ve been hoping to see this kind of thing happen in the Philippines for over a decade.”

The conversation included a diverse lineup of talents from various genres: DJ Medmessiah, Morobeats, Pio Balbuena, Chelsea Alley (formerly of Slapshock), and rising 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.

During the meeting, Bam Aquino emphasized the importance of crafting policies that will protect and uplift musicians in the country.

“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 artists.

(We will craft policies to ensure the livelihood of our musicians and protect their hard-earned works through strengthened intellectual property.)

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.