Filipino rapper Omar Baliw has called out the camp of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy for allegedly using his song ‘K&B’ without permission at a campaign event.
The song was played as a campaign jingle during Quiboloy’s senatorial kick-off rally in Pasig City earlier this week.
The rapper took to Facebook on February 13 to express his frustration, sharing a video clip from the event.
“Di pa nakaupo, nagnakaw na agad. Wala kaming kinalaman dito. Pwede ba itong ipa-Barangay? Awit.” (He’s not even elected yet, but he already stole my song. We have nothing to do with this. Can we report him to the barangay? Damn.”)
After news outlets picked up the story, Omar reiterated his disapproval, emphasizing that he was never consulted about the use of his track.
“Uulitin ko, wala kameng kinalaman dyan. Ninakaw ang music at ginamit nang walang pahintulot.” (Again, we have nothing to do with this. Our music was stolen and used without permission.”)
The issue quickly gained traction on social media, with netizens reacting to the rapper’s post. Some supported him, while others mocked Quiboloy’s use of the song.
The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (FILSCAP) have long reminded political candidates that using copyrighted music without obtaining a license violates intellectual property laws.
Unauthorized use of music can lead to legal action, as campaigns are required to seek proper permission from artists and copyright holders before using their songs.
As of now, Quiboloy’s camp has not issued a response regarding the alleged unauthorized use of Omar Baliw’s song.
Quiboloy, a controversial religious leader, is currently detained by Philippine authorities while facing multiple charges, including: Human trafficking, Sexual abuse, Fraud and coercion, Bulk cash smuggling. He is also on the FBI’s Most Wanted list in the United States for alleged sex trafficking, including cases involving minors.
Despite these charges, Quiboloy is running for senator in the 2025 Philippine general elections.
Meanwhile, Omar Baliw remains active in the local hip-hop scene. He recently dropped a new collaboration single, ‘Kalaban’ featuring DiCE, on February 7, 2025.
The rapper has built a strong following with previous hit singles such as: ‘High Minds’ ft. Michael Bars, ‘Up’, ‘Baliw’, Sino Daw?’ and ‘Bulong’.