
A few days after his win, singer CJ Villavicencio is breaking his silence on the piracy allegations he has received from "Ang Huling El Bimbo" musical director Myke Salomon.
On Wednesday midnight, the aspiring singer released a statement on his personal Facebook account that said:
"Over the weekend, my life has changed in an instant.
“I did not expect my victory to trigger so much negative comments and hate online. I was hurt and it also aches my heart to unintentionally hurt some people as well, especially the production team of 'Ang Huling El Bimbo' The Musical."
According to CJ, his final performance was a tribute to his favorite artist and musical "while also incorporating my own story and experiences."
He added, "It is a piece that reflects my relationship with my friends, my role as a student, and my passion for music.
"It was also dedicated to all the students who endlessly strive in life."
He explained, "There was no intention whatsoever on my part to plagiarize.
"I am sorry if I caused undue stress, seemed disrespectful if I have hurt the theater community."
CJ claimed that the reactions he has received affected his mental health but thanked the people who stood by him through the end.
"Clearly, as an amateur and spring artist, I still have so many things to learn.
"I humbly ask for everyone's understanding as I navigate this new world that I have entered.
"I am not a bad person. My intentions were far different from what people think."
Based on the statement, there is no mention of him relinquishing the title and the said PhP 1 million prize.
He concluded, "In this time of uncertainty, may we all have the heart to spread love among humanity."
Read his full statement below:
On August 2, Myke Salomon called the attention of The Pop Stage judges about CJ's musical arrangement that resembles the one in his musical, "Ang Huling El Bimbo."
He claimed, "A guy copied or ripped-off our musical arrangements for #AngHulingElBimboMusical (musical treatment, concept) without permission.
"He won in that Pop Stage contest for his final round. He won one million [pesos] and an artist contract. I feel bad for the other contestants."
He added, "And para sa mga productions and judges, you are judging concept and originality... you tolerate ripping off."
And para sa mga productions and judges. You are judging concept and originality.. You tolerate ripping off.
-- Myke Salomon (@DJMYKEsalomon) August 2, 2020
Eraserheads lead vocalist Ely Buendia stood by the claims of the theater musical team and hoped that the "matter is resolved soon and credit is given to those who deserve it."