In his Facebook post, Eraserhead lead vocalist Ely Bundia appealed to the people, companies and corporations involced in the “Ang Huling El Bimbo Plagiarism issue.” This was after online talent search “The Pop Stage” held their final competition night last July 26 where grand prize winnir CJ Villavicencio used a medley of E-heads songs as his winning piece, using a musical arrangement that was nearly identical to what was used in the play.
“You have the power to teach a young man and all the young people out there about to join the world, our children, a most valuable lesson that can have no other effect except make them good and become better.” Buendia stated in his post.
The Pop Stage was sponsored by Popeyes and hosted by Matteo Guidicelli. Villavicencio won a one million pesos and a one-year contract with Viva Artists Agency.
“You have the power to stand up for and give back to the art which has been a source of life for all of us. You have the power to set an example and for once do the right thing, and become a beacon of hope in these dark times ruled by greed, hate and lies.”
Buendia also acknowledged that there are more important issues but he wanted to stress on the action (or harm) done that might have an effect in the future.
“Yes there are even more pressing matters out there, but in the end this will not just be about a song, a contract, a million pesos, or credit. Your actions will set a precedent and have repercussions in the years to come. On which side of history do you want to be on? Search your hearts for the truth and it will set you free.”
Meanwhile on his Facebook post, Villavicencio asked for understanding as an amateur and aspiring artist. He said that there was no intention to plagiarize.
“There was no intention whatsoever on my part to plagiarize. I am sorry if I caused undue distress, seemed disrespectful or if I have hurt the theater community,” he added on his post.
