A newly composed Boholano song titled “It Is I... Don’t Be Afraid,” written by composer Lyndon Boiser and performed by the University of Santo Tomas Singers, is gaining attention for its message of comfort and hope in the wake of recent natural disasters that have affected communities across the Philippines.
The choral piece, arranged by UST Singers founder and musical director Prof. Fidel Gener Calalang Jr., was released through the choir’s official social media platforms and has been shared widely among listeners seeking solace after a year marked by typhoons, floods, and earthquakes. The work is intended to offer emotional support, particularly to Filipino families who have lost loved ones or homes due to these events.
Boiser, a Boholano composer, said the song was written with the intention of helping people confront fear and grief through music. Drawing from faith-based themes and lyrical reassurance, the composition centers on the idea of presence and courage during moments of uncertainty.
The University of Santo Tomas Singers, one of the country’s most internationally recognized choirs, brings the piece to life with a restrained yet expressive performance.
The ensemble is a recipient of the prestigious “Choir of the World” title from the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales, a distinction that underscores its global reputation for technical excellence and emotional depth.
Beyond its musical release, the song has also been highlighted as an example of how regional identity and artistry contribute to the national cultural landscape. The Provincial Government of Bohol has continued to recognize the work of Boholano artists and cultural workers as part of broader efforts to strengthen the creative sector, aligned with the Philippines Creative Industries Act, or Republic Act No. 11904.
Bohol, which holds the designation as the country’s first and only UNESCO Global Geopark, has been promoting culture-driven initiatives, including music tourism, as a way to bring communities together and preserve local heritage. Advocates say music plays a crucial role in healing, storytelling, and sustaining cultural identity, especially during times of collective hardship.
The release of “It Is I... Don’t Be Afraid” also coincides with National Arts Month in February, a period dedicated to recognizing Filipino creativity across regions and disciplines. Supporters of the song say its authorship, performance, and intent make it a meaningful representation of regional expression with national resonance.
The piece, which can be watched through the official Facebook page of University of Santo Tomas Singers, features music and lyrics by Boiser, an arrangement by Calalang, orchestral mock-up by JC Celeste, audio mixing by John Lourd Atanacio, and video editing by Carl Michael Padilla.