Bagani

“Bagani” is the theme song of the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines (2021 QCP), adopted by the National Quincentennial Committee (NQC) during its 11th Regular Meeting on November 21, 2019. The title “Bagani” is derived from a Manobo word meaning 'warrior' and 'leader', reflecting the character expected of a community leader who defends their people and territory. The term also has cognates across various Austronesian languages, including Aklanon ('love of homeland, patriot'), Meranaw ('vigor'), Mandaya ('seasoned warrior-turned-community leader'), and Bagobo ('brave,' 'warrior'), all stemming from the proto-Austronesian origin *baRani, meaning “brave, bold; dare to do”.The song itself celebrates the Filipino heritage of nobleness and compassion, inspiring individuals to achieve great things for their people and the world. It was written and composed by young OPM songwriter Roel Rostata, with lyrics further enhanced and melody arranged by Jungee Marcelo. The official interpretation was performed by Anthony Castillo and his a cappella group, Pinopela. The song was publicly launched during the 500-day countdown to the 2021 QCP on December 14, 2019, and has since seen various renditions, including a Filipino Sign Language interpretation and a Cebuano version.It is important to note that “Bagani” in this context refers to a culturally significant song and a word with deep historical and linguistic roots in the Philippines, rather than a specific geographical location or physical place. The song serves as a modern nationalistic anthem, commemorating significant milestones such as the 500 years of the Philippine part in the first circumnavigation of the world and the victory of ancestors led by Lapulapu in the Battle of Mactan in 1521.