Joey Ayala performed his version of “Lupang Hinirang”, the national anthem of the Philippines during a TEDxDiliman event dubbed “Things That Matter” somewhere in the University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City.
In the video, the renowned musician revealed that he tampered with the rhythm and some of the lyrics of Lupang Hinirang, which he presented to the audiences at the event. He also cites some of the mispronunciations when people sang the anthem’s lyrics. “We’d been singing this song for years, and nobody has really bothered to edit like a songwriter would,” Joey Ayala shared. Afterward, he comes up with possible suggestions to correct them.
According to Joey Ayala, the last line of the song “ang mamatay ng dahil sayo” may have some psychological effect on Filipinos. It has a negative impact on the mind of students. This is why once they finished their studies, they immediately wanted to leave the country and seek greener pastures in a foreign land.
Moreover, he suggested that the closing line of the national anthem be replaced with generally positive phrases like “ang magmahal ng dahil sa ‘yo.” Afterward, he also suggests adding a ritual, which is hugging the people next to the person or a group hug. 
Watch and listen to Joey Ayala’s version of ‘Lupang Hinirang’ (Chosen Land) below:
The video was shared by the Tedx Talks Youtube channel on November 15, 2013. As of the writing, the clip has now 1 Million views, received ten thousand likes, and 1000 plus comments. Update in 2023: The video now has 2694000 views and 43K likes.
With reference to another Tedx Talks youtube video dated November 21, 2013. Joey Ayala or real name “Jose Iñigo Homer Ayala” was born on June 1, 1956 in the city of Del Monte in Bukidnon province. His father “Joe” was a former-teacher and her mother “Tita” is a housewife. Both of his parents are writers, loves poetry, painting, books, and music.
Mr. Ayala’s first names “Jose” came from his father and grandfather, “Iñigo” from St. Ignatius, and “Homer” from Greek poet. He revealed that got his surname “Ayala” from his Chinese ancestor who took a spanish name so the latter can do business in the Philippines.
