Music licensing is a critical aspect of the music industry, ensuring that artists and creators are fairly compensated for their work. In the country, the Philippine Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM) has emerged as a leading advocate for the protection of public performance rights for record labels and recording artists. Accredited by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), PRM is committed to safeguarding the creative ecosystem against the unauthorized use of music.
To remind the industry and the general public of the importance of copyright, PRM mounted the “R.E.D.” or “Royalty. Engagement. Distribution” campaign via a well-attended party. The event gathered industry leaders to discuss the far-reaching consequences of unauthorized music use.
PRM Chairman Ricardo Blancaflor, former director general of IPOPHL, underscored the negative impact of copyright infringement on creativity and innovation.
(From left) Francis Buen, head of licensing of Philippine Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM); Ramon Chuaying, SoundsRight chairman and EVP Universal Records; Ricardo Blancaflor, PRM Chairman; Dhanesh Jagwani, general manager of PRM; and singer-performer Arthur Miguel.
“Copyright isn’t just about music; it extends to all forms of creation, like clothes and shoes. When people can easily copy your work, it discourages new creation. Take Marikina, for instance — there used to be 350 shoe manufacturers, but now only 30 remain because of rampant copying. The same principle applies to music. If you allow people to copy your songs, it becomes impossible to protect them, stifling the creation of new music,” Blancaflor explained.
Dhanesh Jagwani, general manager of PRM and head of licensing for Southeast Asia at the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), highlighted the importance of securing proper licenses to ensure artists receive due credit for their work.
“Artists should secure their licenses to ensure the credit goes to them,” Jagwani said.
The discussion also touched on the evolving landscape of music licensing, particularly in the age of streaming and digital distribution. Francis Buen, head of licensing at PRM, clarified the misconception that music is freely available.
“Music is free only if it’s for personal consumption. However, if businesses use music to enhance their operations, they must recognize that it’s not free,” he explained.
Also presented were insights from Ramon Chuaying, SoundsRight Chairman and EVP of Universal Records, who urged artists to collaborate with record companies to market their songs effectively and protect their compositions. “Approach record companies that can help you market your songs because they have the experience and resources to do it. It’s better to have a copyright certificate so that if someone copies your song, you have the legal backing,” Chuaying advised.
The event established that PRM’s role extends beyond licensing and royalties; it also provides vital support for artists in registering and protecting their music. Blancaflor, therefore, encouraged artists to join PRM for comprehensive assistance, especially in navigating international markets.
“PRM will negotiate on your behalf with agencies abroad, so you don’t have to go overseas to protect your music,” he said.
Blancaflor also emphasized the therapeutic value of music, particularly during crises like the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Music is like a doctor — it’s a form of therapy. That’s why it’s so important to protect musicians, especially in times of crisis. PRM is here to ensure that your music is safeguarded with passion,” he added.
Later on in the event, R.E.D. turned into a celebration with featured performances by artists such as Dionela, Ace Banzuelo, JAO and Arthur Miguel, known for his hits “Lihim” and “Ang Wakas.” It also marked PRM’s first-ever distribution of royalties to artists and record labels, covering the period from January 2021 to December 2022.
In total, royalties were distributed to 105 performers, including 30 local Filipino artists and 75 international performers. Notable local recipients included Ace Banzuelo, Adie, Janine Berdin, Arthur Nery, Ben&Ben, Moira Dela Torre, NOBITA, IV Of Spades, and Zack Tabudlo. International recipients featured prominent names like BLACKPINK, BTS, Harry Styles, Joji, Justin Bieber, NIKI, Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, The Weeknd, and Troye Sivan.
PRM’s efforts in supporting and protecting the music industry were clearly demonstrated at the R.E.D. event, reinforcing the importance of licensing and artist rights in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
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