Dice and K9/Mobbstarr receives 'Ani ng Dangal'

If there’s one person, who would be most happy to see a then underground hip-hop Bisdak act making its way successfully not only in the “thoroughfares of rap/hip-hop,” but also recently into the halls of Malacañan to reap its award – then that would be me.

 “Tha’ Journey of Dice and K9 Mobbstarr” was my very first contribution to the Entertainment page in January of 2006. I have always believed in Dice and his music, and I feel I have pretty much scored as well a “good rhyme” in putting all their struggles and triumphs on print.

The Bisdak brat pack, through the “Tha’ Journey” album, espoused the jagged terrains of that tricky uphill climb to stardom – from the injuries created by initial rejection (being a "Bisayang probinsyano"), and detraction, to the summits conquered afterwards and the view from up there.

Wolfren “Dice” Rosaroso is so glad to have finally purchased for himself a royal blue Barong Tagalog and, with his wife Hi-C donning on a black Filipiniana cut dress, came strutting to the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the 2nd “Ani ng Dangal” Awards in recognition of their contribution in the field of music -- in the Pinoy hip-hop genre and all its infusions -- no less than from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo herself.

Dice and K9/Mobbstarr (with a slash now) along with the University of the Visayas Chorale and the Mandaue Children’s Choir were recognized for their excellent contributions to music as an art form.

Dice, Hi-C and new member Klumcee tied with Thailand recently as “Best Hip-hop Group in Southeast Asia” in the Asia Voice Independent Music Awards besting over 30 groups. This is an annual contest among artists unsigned with major labels. 

“Philippines pride gyod. Ang mga awardees kadtong mga groups that won in international competitions. It’s really an honor to be part of the rest of the 41 awardees,” Dice said over a brief phone interview.

“Ani ng Dangal” is organized by the National Commission of Culture and the Arts through its chairman, Education Undersecretary and NCCA Chairman Vilma Labrador, and presidential assistant on culture Cecile Guidote Alvarez.