Kawayan

Lyrics by Kris Berse, Mikee Nazal, Pat Reyes Composed and performed by Pat Reyes, Mikee Nazal, Lianne Angelico Depante, & Jean Rañises Arranged by Pat Reyes & Lianne Angelico Depante Additional Graphics by: Gianne Encarnacion Animated by Max Canlas & JE Sarvida The kawayan that bends is stronger than the oak that resists. Kawayan, the familiar plant or grass found in the Philippines, symbolizes “true resilience.” Kawayan is known for its strength, flexibility, and durability, bending with the wind, but never breaking. It takes 4-7 years to grow internally, building deeper roots to brace the harshness of the environment and seasons. Just like kawayan, the song tells of how we, Filipinos, are deeply rooted, able to prepare for what is to come (sa paghamon ng panahon, sumusulong, umaahon), willing to learn from past mistakes and grow beyond our limits (yumayabong, umaahon), however, refusing to fall to threats that can otherwise be prevented (ba’t patutumba pa rin?) Filipinos should not merely accept challenges and then rise from them, rather learn, adapt, and change to face the same challenges differently.