Filipino hip-hop/rap resident Gloc-9 (Aristotle Pollisco) unearthed the truths behind his 2012 hit single “Sirena,” dedicating the track to his queer son, Daniel. In an interview with ABS-CBN news on his “Walang Pumapalakpak” collaboration with Gary Valenciano, he delved into the song’s meaning, reception, and intent as an ode to his pride and joy.
“My son is gay. Nung sinulat ko ‘yun, hindi niya pa sinasabi sa amin. Hindi ko alam kung paano ko sasabihin sa anak ko na, kung gaano ko siya kamahal…Hindi naman ako ma-showbiz and I think para sabihin ko ito now, ako ay proud na proud sa anak. Ako ay excited sa kung ano man ang kaya niyang ma-achieve sa buhay niya,” Gloc-9 mentioned, teary-eyed.
(My son is gay. When I wrote the song (Sirena), he hadn’t told us yet. I didn’t know how to tell him how much I loved him…I’m not at the forefront of show business, but being able to tell this now, I wanted to share how proud I am of him. I’m excited about whatever he can achieve in his life.)
Regardless of his sexual orientation, Gloc-9 firmly stands behind his son, supporting him on his journey through unconditional love and support.
“Minsan iniisip ko how life gives you hints of magic here and there. Nung natapos ko ‘yung ‘Sirena’ hindi ko naman alam. And I don't mind. Anak ko ‘yun,” he added.
(Sometimes, I think about the unexpectedness of life, and when I finished “Sirena,” I did not know what was to come, though I don’t mind, he’s my son.)
YouTube: Universal Records Philippines
“While Sirena is a widely-regarded anthem, even those from outside the LGBTQIA+ community, the legendary rapper was initially hesitant to release the song due to fears of backlash.
“Yung song na ‘yan, nung ire-release namin ‘yan, takot na takot ako. Takot na takot dahil ayaw kong maka-insulto ng tao. Alam ko kasi nung sinulat ko ‘yan, hindi ko tsinelas o sapatos ang suot-suot ko. Ako’y nagsuot ng ibang sapatos o tsinelas,” Gloc-9 mentioned.
(I was scared when we released the song because I didn’t want to insult anyone. I understood the possibility of a negative response because I placed my feet in another person’s shoes.)
To his surprise, he received positive feedback, with many relating to the track in different ways—individually, as a friend, and as fathers of queer children.
