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My Spiritual Side Hussles

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Hi! I’m Francis Elixer Tupaz, a BS Information Systems student at Mapúa Malayan Colleges of Mindanao with a strong passion for Philippine pop culture and a deep appreciation for the arts and traditions that shape our identity. My favorite OPM artists include Ben&Ben and TJ Monterde, whose music resonates with me for its heartfelt lyrics and connection to Filipino life. In film, I admire Heneral Luna for its powerful portrayal of our nation's history and its reminder of the courage that defines us as Filipinos.

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As a dedicated volleyball fan, I love both playing and following the sport, enjoying the community it fosters here in the Philippines. I’m also a big fan of Filipino street food, especially the vibrant offerings of Roxas Night Market, where I get to enjoy treats like Chicken Skin and Barbeque. These interests not only reflect my love for local music, sports, and food but also connect me to the spirit and creativity that make Philippine culture so unique. Additionally, I appreciate Filipino clothing styles and take pride in wearing the Barong Tagalog, a symbol of our culture and heritage that reminds me of our rich traditions. These interests reflect my love for music, sports, food, fashion, and everything that makes Philippine culture so distinct and meaningful.

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And then theres my Section during the Sportsfest 2024

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And then theres my Section during the Sportsfest 2024

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I do not have a picture of me playing volleyball, but I did like playing it all the way

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Photo from City Gov't of Davao

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Actually I have outdated Barong pictures, but I am looking forward to buy a new one and use it in a formal event

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Ben&Ben, one of the Philippines' most beloved contemporary folk-pop bands, stands out in today's society for their music's profound emotional resonance and cultural significance. Their songs, written and performed in Filipino, capture the everyday experiences, struggles, and dreams of Filipinos, making their music relatable and widely celebrated. Blending folk and pop elements, Ben&Ben creates a sound that is both distinct and accessible, while their lyrics touch on universal themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.

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Songs like Pagtingin, Kathang Isip, and Leaves have become anthems for the current generation, addressing social issues and personal struggles in a way that feels intimate yet universal. This ability to reflect the Filipino spirit in a modern, relatable way has made them influential not only in the Philippines but also as cultural ambassadors who introduce Filipino music to a broader audience.

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Using the Uses and Gratifications Theory, we can explore how Ben&Ben’s music fulfills various needs and motivations for Filipino audiences, influencing social behaviors and identity. As a band that often addresses themes of love, self-discovery, and social issues, Ben&Ben provides not just entertainment but also emotional validation and a sense of connection to a larger cultural narrative. Many listeners turn to their songs during moments of personal reflection, finding solace in tracks like Leaves and Kathang Isip that speak to overcoming adversity and accepting one’s journey. The band’s music has become a cultural balm for young Filipinos navigating the challenges of modern life, including mental health struggles, societal expectations, and the search for authenticity. By offering music that feels deeply personal yet widely relatable, Ben&Ben allows fans to see their own experiences reflected in lyrics and melodies, thereby reinforcing their sense of identity and community.

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Ben&Ben also plays a significant role in media and youth culture by influencing media consumption and setting trends within Philippine pop culture. Their songs are frequently featured on mainstream radio, social media, and streaming platforms, where fans actively share and discuss their music, creating a vibrant online community. This engagement extends beyond passive listening; fans often use Ben&Ben’s music as a backdrop for self-expression, whether through social media posts, fashion inspired by the band’s style, or even artistic creations and covers shared online. Through this digital interaction, Ben&Ben fosters a shared cultural language among Filipino youth, impacting fashion, self-expression, and social behavior. For example, the aesthetic of Filipino folk-pop, as embodied by Ben&Ben, has influenced fashion trends towards a more laid-back, rustic look that combines traditional and modern elements. By engaging with Ben&Ben’s music, fans find both a source of personal expression and a connection to a larger cultural movement, showing how contemporary pop culture can shape not only individual identities but also collective behaviors and aesthetics.