NHI OKs Asunto’s rendition of Lupang Hinirang

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino-American teen singer Kirby Asunto’s interpretation of the country’s national anthem for the Manny Pacquiao-Timothy Bradley bout has earned the approval of the National Historical Institute.

Kirby Asunto sings the National Anthem of the Philippines before the Pacquiao v Bradley fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena on June 9, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. KEVORK DJANSEZIAN/GETTY IMAGES/AFP

A Radyo Inquirer 990AM report quoted NHI executive director Ludovico Badoy as saying that Asunto’s version of the Lupang Hinirang passed their standards despite its slower tempo.

The NHI also allowed certain mistakes Asunto committed in pronouncing Tagalog words since the 14-year-old singer spent more time in the United States than the Philippines, Badoy said.

Asunto was personally chosen by Pacquiao to sing the national anthem  during Sunday’s fight held at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The NHI has been keeping tabs on singers’ renditions of the national anthem for Pacquiao’s fights due to the massive attention it receives.