Today, we sit down with Dietroi Dimanalata, who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Palawan State University. Clad in an orange shirt—his favorite color—Dietroi’s lips smile wide, and his eyes sparkle as he talks about putting words into song and hopes for the future of Palaweño music. This singer-songwriter from Puerto Princesa City captures hearts with his songs and creativity.

How It All Began

Dietroi’s journey into music started in college when he first tried writing songs. “I used Free for Profit beats from the internet and began to explore songwriting,” he says. Learning and growing, things took off when he met Faith Justine Galvez, a producer and co-composer. Together, they entered songwriting contests and won the Grand Champion title at the Tunog Palawan 2023 Songwriting Competition with the piece “Kwento Natin,” their first big success.

Working with other budding artists has been a rewarding experience for Dietroi. Teaming up with classmates Rock Cuadrante, a local rapper, and Analiza Gineza, a talented singer. “Collaborating with them was fantastic,” Dietroi shares. “Their skills perfectly matched mine, and we created something special together.” 

The 22-year-old songwriter has been recognized with several awards. He received a Certificate of Recognition for his song “PalSU-1,” which became the official Diversity Song of Palawan State University in 2023. He also won the 2nd Place and People’s Choice Award at the Malagnang Festival 2024 Songwriting Competition.

Influences and Inspiration

Dietroi grew up listening to local and international musicians who moved him. Artists like Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, Charlie Puth and Ben Platt were big influences. He takes inspiration from Erik Santos, Zack Tabudlo, Maki, Arthur Nery, and bands Silent Sanctuary and Cup of Joe. “Their music showed me how to tell stories through songs,” he explains. Dietroi mixes these influences to create his own unique sound. 

The 22-year-old songwriter finds endless inspiration in nature. One instrument or sound he used in one of his works is the angklung (a handmade musical instrument made from bamboo) because it produces a beautiful, primitive sound.

Dietroi is interested in mixing traditional Palawan music with modern genres. If he could create a new project, he would blend traditional sounds with modern music. “Pop is popular with young people,” he says. “Combining it with traditional music can attract their interest and introduce them to Palawan’s rich musical heritage.”

Challenges and Overcoming Them

Like many artists, Dietroi has faced challenges. One major challenge was his fear of failure. “I had to learn to accept defeat and keep going,” he explains.

Dietroi recalls a time when his music made an unexpected impact on the community when he wrote the song Aasa Pa Ba? with Rock Cuadrante. “I wrote that after the devastation of Typhoon Maring in the whole province. Many houses were flooded, and lives were taken. It was the very first time that Palawan experienced severe damage from any natural calamity. Those losses and the drowned hopes of many Palaweños inspired me to write that song, give hope, and open the eyes of many.”

Advice for Fellow Young Musicians

To aspiring musicians, Dietroi offers this advice: “Start by telling your own stories through music. Don’t be afraid to show what you can do. Music is about sharing your experiences and giving hope to others.”

Dietroi Dimanalata is a rising star in Palawan’s music scene. As he takes on a new journey joining the world of work, he looks forward to the future, hoping to help nourish the gift of music in his island home.

Catch Dietroi Dimanalata jam with us at Palawan Wave FM’s YouTube channel! #GoodWavesGoodVibes

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Are you a local artist eager to share your music and story with Palawan and the world? We’d love to feature you on Palawan Wave FM! Send us an email at palawanwavefm919@gmail.com, and let’s bring your unique sound to the spotlight.