“The Pop Stage” champion CJ Villavicencio and Eraserheads member release their statements on the alleged plagiarism of some materials from “Ang Huling El Bimbo The Musical”.
In a contest where Creativity and Originality takes up 40% of the criteria, Villavicencio gets called out for copying a number of concepts, choreography, and musical arrangement. The rest of the judging standards rest on Quality of Performance (40%) Entertainment Value (20%).
Despite not mentioning anyone, Musical Director Myke Solomon was quick to point out the incident.
A guy copied/ripped-off our musical arrangements for #AngHulingElbimboMusical (musical treatment, concept) without permission won in that pop stage contest for his final round. He won 1million and an artist contract. I feel bad for the other contestants.
— Myke Salomon (@DJMYKEsalomon) August 2, 2020
On the other hand, Buendia took to social media that he was disheartened by the situation.
“AHEB’S ROTC Pare Ko was by far, among all the brilliant arrangements and choreography in the show, the most striking and original renditions I had witnessed and enjoyed during its original run, and easily became my favorite,” he shared.
The musician also stressed that he particularly loved the number because it was an old tune that was presented as “NEW” and “FRESH”.
“I am disappointed for all the AHEB crew because I know for a fact that they poured all their hearts and souls into creating something that was true to the material and their craft,” he continued. “In our day to day struggles against this oppressive life, the temptation is always there to take the fast route, the shortcut, the easy way to success.”
“But we are human. I hope this matter is resolved soon and credit is given to those who deserve it,” Buendia ended.
In a separate Facebook entry, the icon called on the people responsible for the controversy and urged them to “make this right”.
“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.” he wrote.
He added, “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.”
Buendia concluded his statement with an impactful question: “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.”
CJ Villavicencio’s statement
Meanwhile, Villavicencio released his official statement on Wednesday night.
“Over the weekend, my life has changed in an instant. I did not expect my victory to trigger so much negative comments and hate online,” he wrote. “I was hurt and it also aches my heart to unintentionally hurt some people as well, especially the production team of Ang Huling El Bimbo The Musical.”
He added, “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.”
Amid the controversy, Villavicencio is keen to express his gratitude to the people behind the contest.
“In this time of uncertainty, may we all have the heart to spread love among humanity. 
.”
In case you’re curious about the issue, a Facebook video by dissected the materials Villavicencio allegedly ripped-off.
Hosted by Matteo Guidicelli, the judging panel was comprised of Ritz Beltran, Jed Madela, and Lani Misalucha. Upon winning on Sunday, Villavicencio was entitled to a PHP1 million cash in addition and a 1 year contract with VIVA Artists Agency.
There were no clarifications whether the winner will still receive the title and prizes.
Photo Credit: Intagram/elybumbilya
