Скачать или смотреть SB19 Visa MV Reaction

What did SB19 put into their song “VISA”? Why does it get more beautiful the more time passes? I’m LSS—last song syndrome—for days now. I couldn’t stop myself from making a reaction video.

Last New Year, I was able to see Josh after the New Year countdown, and he was really accommodating and said hi. I also crossed paths with Pablo and Justin, and Stell too, but they looked pretty tired. I didn’t have time to say hi properly.

At first, I thought the song was negative—very critical. “VISA” sounded political. But I realized the song is actually deep. SB19 could’ve easily repeated familiar song formulas, but they were brave enough to release something that’s very Pinoy-coded. For A’TIN, the song is honestly inspiring if you listen long enough.

The line that stuck with me most is: “One day, they will look up to me, because I am excellent!”

Sure, a lot of negative things are happening in the country—we shouldn’t turn a blind eye. Even impressive and extremely famous artists in the Philippines, even celebrities, aren’t immune to economic hardship and discrimination. It’s true: there are so many limitations that come with being Pinoy. But after ranting and feeling angry, you still have to rise above it and keep dreaming, keep doing the work, and not give up. Not settling for less. Not dimming yourself.

I read some of the YouTube comments, and here are the standouts:

One: “NOYPI, NOYPI, NOYPI” is so badass—imagine singing along to that tune at SMDC Festival Grounds. Super intense. I agree.

Second: Janelle-b9z said the song has so many meanings. I have to agree—SB19 songs have layers. They’re fun to decode. They don’t give you the typical content; you really have to think.

Another comment (from Filipino Vibe) said that after watching the MV for the 9th time, they realized the lyric “it’s really hard to fly even when there is proof you really can” doesn’t only talk about travel—it’s also about the metaphorical ability of many of us to “fly” toward success, despite systemic barriers tied to economic class and race. We have to overcome those and keep flying high. I agree. A’TIN are seriously smart.

And Pablo—he’s brilliant. He can channel frustration into a catchy, brilliant, very danceable song. The melody is so good—the kind where you’re reflecting on the daily state of life in the Philippines, but you still end up moving, still getting lifted, still finding joy.

From Alaine Catajan: “I am blown away by the unabashed Filipineness of this song—from the lyrics that discuss Filipino truths, to the choreography that incorporates Filipino children’s games, to the MV’s undeniable NOYPI vibe.” True. I can totally see kids dancing and singing to this. It’s such a vibe.

The mood of the song is festive. It still strives to uplift, even when you’re going through something—just fight. I like that: yes, the message can be heavy, but it never lets go of the idea that Filipinos are excellent—that we will rise above this as our consciousness grows deeper and higher, and as we improve.

God bless the Philippines. To Jesus Christ be the Highest Glory!