Gihandom ka

The song "Gihandom Ka," written and composed by Arnold Rosaroso Vale, is a deeply emotional and poignant piece, crafted as a tribute to his children, who both left the Philippines to pursue careers in the medical field in Canada. The title itself, Gihandom Ka, is derived from the Visayan language, where Gihandom translates to "I am longing for you." Through this simple yet profound expression, Vale conveys the overwhelming sense of distance, both physical and emotional, from his beloved children.

The act of composing this song became a cathartic experience for Vale. As he poured his heart into the lyrics, tears flowed freely from his eyes—symbolizing the deep emotional bond he shares with his son and daughter. These tears are not just of sorrow but of love, a love that transcends the boundaries of distance. The song becomes a bridge, a connection that soothes the pain of separation and revives the cherished memories they shared together. It is as though the music itself carries his longing across the miles, offering solace and relief. With every note, the pain fades into the background, replaced by the vivid, warm recollections of his children—like footprints left in the sands of time, forever etched in his heart.

While Vale’s intention was to capture his love and longing for his children, some listeners interpret the song differently. They hear it as an expression of longing for a lover, a partner, or a distant friend. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the aching distance between themselves and someone they hold dear. The lyrics speak of love that is unyielding and unwavering, even when separated by miles. The metaphorical imagery of longing, and the desire to reunite, touches the universal human experience of connection.

The beauty of "Gihandom Ka" is further brought to life through the angelic voice of Marilou Pepito Lapera. Her voice, described as young and vibrant, possesses a quality that can stir the soul and make the heart ache. When she sings, it feels as if she could move mountains with the sheer power and emotion of her voice. Her voice is like the breeze that sweeps across a mountain top—soft, yet capable of stirring profound emotions and memories. When she sings, it is as if the very air around her becomes charged with emotion, and the listener can almost feel the coldness of the breeze, the stillness of the night, and the weight of the longing she conveys.

Her performance transforms the song from just a personal tribute into something more universal—something that captures the essence of longing, love, and the enduring hope of reuniting with loved ones. It’s a voice that doesn’t just sing words; it breathes them, giving them life, like a distant star whose light travels across vast distances to reach us, yet always reminding us of the beauty and the pain of the journey.

In this way, "Gihandom Ka" is more than just a song—it’s a heartfelt metaphor for the human experience. It speaks of distance, of separation, and of the quiet strength that love can provide in the face of longing. The music is a gentle, yet powerful, expression of how deep-rooted memories, though separated by time and space, can fill the heart with warmth and light, turning the sorrow of absence into a testament of love that remains undiminished.

Marilou Pepito Lapera.

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Compsed by: Arnold Rosaroso Vale Trainor / Conductor: Arnold Rosaroso Vale