Part 2 - Ilocano Harana (Ta Nagsaway A Pintas Mo)

Felipe Alonzo (1934-2013) recorded a remarkable all-Ilocano harana album, Kenka Biagko, for Villar Records in 1965. Accompanied by Leopoldo Silos and his rondalla, this album is a treasure trove of poignant and beautifully sung melodies that many Filipinos outside the Ilocos region have yet to discover. Sadly, Kenka Biagko is no longer in circulation. I was fortunate enough to listen to it, thanks to an Instagram follower who found a second-hand printed album online.

This footage was taken in 2008, during my first encounter with Mang Felipe on the streets of Vigan, Ilocos Sur. While staying at a local hotel, I asked a worker named Aling Aning if she knew of any singers who still practiced old harana songs. “I know someone! He drives a tricycle in the streets of Vigan,” she replied.

Initially, I thought it can’t be that easy. Encouraged by producer Fides Enriquez (now my wife) to pursue the lead, I went to the street corner (sa kanto) with our film crew, and waited for this supposedly legendary singer to roll in on his tricycle. The rest is history (watch the documentary via the link below).

Featuring the charming old town of Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Watch the full Harana documentary here in YouTube:
   • HARANA - Full Feature Documentary  

Directed by Benito Bautista
Cinematography by Peggy Peralta
Sound recording by Raffy Magsaysay
Produced by Fides Enriquez