04/12/2025
There are no words that can describe the pain of this great loss in our community. Budoy's influence as a creative individual and with his band Jr Kilat are monumental, a clear push for authenticity in the music scene. He is a generational talent, a legend, and a pillar of the Philippine music scene. His music could break the parameters of a genre and create some of the most distinct and recognizable songs from the islands. If "original" was to be described as a person, our friend Budoy would definitely be an easy choice. But being original as well as relatable, political, deep and danceable is definitely a description not many can claim. Using Bisaya in the way he did opened the doors for our culture to embrace more than just the language but also the culture around it and pushing it forward.
On stage, Budoy was a magician. The way he was able to control a crowd the moment he stepped on until he stepped off stage is mindblowing. We are so lucky to have had him play for at Musikalawaig twice. He gave us memories which are now even more meaningful.
Off-stage, he was humble, perceptive, and present in the moment. He was larger than life, but he would never let you feel that he was.
We lost a great one today.
Rest in Paradise Budoy.
The original sigbin will always be in Tribu Kalawaigs hearts.
**This photo was captured at Musikalawaig in 2018 by our good friend David Roa.
