Hyper-localism: this is what Ryan Cayabyab speaks of when describing the current state of OPM (original Pilipino music). It's a new kind of movement, and one that's exciting for locally-reared talents such as Cayabyab himself.

A National Artist conferred at the age of 64, Cayabyab has spent much of his career see-sawing through the wide spectrum of music. He's done symphonic work, opera, and concerto, but has also made a name for himself in more mainstream media. As a seasoned maestro, Cayabyab has had the opportunity to do what newer, less experienced talents have not: he's seen, firsthand, how the music industry has changed over time. "I had experienced the 'golden age' of original Pilipino music starting with the birth of the Manila Sound and non-stop creation of homegrown music. [I'd also witnessed] the rise of Filipino performers of different genres from the 70s - 80s; the rise of bands and various acts, acoustic and electric from the 90s to the early turn of the millennium," he shares. Now, he says, he's seeing the rise of "hyper-local music", a movement that comes at a time of rejuvenation, particularly for the "Love Local" cause. 

"[In hyper-localism], music from the other parts of the country—far from the centre of the music industry in Manila—will be felt in a big way," Cayabyab explains. "This is what I am most excited for." While he admits that international breakthroughs in OPM could be a long way off, he also says that this recognition towards Visayan and Mindanaoan music could pave the way for a stronger musical identity. "To whom is popular music for anyway? It is for the young populace. We are hoping (since way back when) that the  tide of music consumption will turn to favour locally made songs."