The brouhaha concerning rapper Ez Mil's nondescript novelty number "Panalo," continues with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHC) now joining in on the ruckus.
It recently released a statement about a part of the song's lyrics, which twisted Lapu Lapu's story.
The agency noted that although it welcomes new songs that inform people of the country's history, they pointed out these should not compromise the same.
It also urged songwriters to be conscious of "accountability."
It said:
"As we approach the 500th anniversary of the Victory at Mactan this 26 April 2021, let us be reminded how the founders and heroes of the Filipino nation reckoned to Lapu-Lapu and Mactan as sources of pride and dignity.
"Lapu-Lapu was definitely not killed in the battle of Mactan. The battle was a victory of our ancestors led by him," they reiterated.
The statement was signed by the NHC Chairperson & National Quincentennial Committee Executive Director Rene R. Escalante.