The world of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) is in mourning following the passing of Piwee Polintan, the beloved vocalist of the band Jeremiah. The news, which has deeply saddened fans and peers alike, was officially announced by the band on their Facebook page on Tuesday, October 28.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Piwee Polintan, beloved vocalist of the band Jeremiah,” the poignant statement read. Polintan, who was a defining voice for the band, had been an integral part of the OPM landscape since Jeremiah’s launch in 1998.
The band’s tribute painted a picture of an artist whose impact stretched far beyond his captivating performances. They described Piwee as “an exceptional artist whose voice and passion touched the hearts of many.” His musical legacy is deeply rooted in some of the late 90s and early 2000s’ most memorable OPM hits, including the iconic songs “Nanghihinayang,” “Bakit Ka Iiyak?,” “Kahit Anong Mangyari,” and “Basta’t Ikaw.” These tracks cemented Jeremiah’s place in Philippine music history, a journey that saw them win Best Performance by a New Group at the 12th Awit Awards.
The grief expressed by his bandmates was personal as well as professional. “Beyond his music, he was a cherished friend, a loving soul, and a brother to us all,” the post continued, emphasizing the deep bond within the group. “His legacy will live on through the songs and memories he shared with the world.”
Piwee Polintan’s passing comes shortly after the band had informed the public about his health struggles. Just days prior, on October 23, Jeremiah had announced that the singer had suffered a stroke. His bandmates extended their “deepest gratitude to everyone who offered prayers, support, and love during his time of illness.”
As the OPM community reflects on the loss of a talented artist, fans are being encouraged to keep the vocalist’s loved ones in their thoughts. “Please continue to keep his family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the band concluded, a fitting final note to a life lived through song. Piwee Polintan’s rich, emotional voice will forever echo in the heart of Filipino music.
Would you like me to find some of Jeremiah’s classic music videos featuring Piwee Polintan? That’s a great idea to remember his work! Piwee Polintan was the voice behind some of Jeremiah’s biggest hits, and his performances are preserved online.
Here are a few ways you can experience his music and the band’s legacy:
🎶 Classic Jeremiah Performances Featuring Piwee Polintan
- “Nanghihinayang” (Wish 107.5 Bus Live Performance): A beloved rendition of their chart-topping heartbreak song, this is a great way to hear Piwee’s powerful voice live in a modern setting.
- “Bakit Ka Iiyak?” (Music Video/Live Performance): This was the carrier single of their self-titled second album, showcasing their talent on another major hit.
- Search on YouTube for: “Jeremiah Bakit Ka Iiyak”
- Official YouTube Channel: The band has an official channel, “Jeremiahbandph,” which features a collection of their music videos, live appearances, and other clips that capture their career from the late 90s onwards.
- Search on YouTube for: “Jeremiahbandph”
These links should help you revisit the songs and the voice that made Jeremiah a multi-platinum OPM group.