By: Vanessa Bugtong
LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — The Cordilleran music community is mourning the death of singer-songwriter Ivan Rufino, who passed away following a motorcycle accident involving a truck along Halsema Highway in La Trinidad, Benguet, in the early hours of March 21, leaving behind a legacy in regional music and a grieving family, friends, and fellow artists.
One of the lines from his well-loved song continues to resonate with many Cordillerans. Behind this phenomenal piece was 41-year-old Ivan Rufino, widely known as the “Knight of Cordilleran Music.” Together with his bandmates from Kabunian, later known as Anido, Ivan performed the song during the Strawberry Festival celebration in La Trinidad, Benguet, on March 20, which would turn out to be his final performance.
At around 1:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 21, tragedy struck along KM.6 of Halsema Highway. Ivan was reportedly on his way to meet his bandmate Alquinn Lim when the accident happened. While traveling along the lane heading toward Baguio City, his motorcycle was suddenly hit by a truck that was overtaking.
According to Anido band leader Alquinn Lim, Ivan’s last message said he was on his way so they could meet at a restaurant, but when he did not arrive, Lim initially thought he might have been delayed or stopped somewhere.
Ivan’s mother, Maria Tandoc Rufino, recalled that police officers came to their house early in the morning, holding Ivan’s PhilHealth card, which caused alarm and confusion as she wondered what had happened to her son.
Ivan was described as a significant loss to his band, as he was the one behind many of their song lyrics. He was also known for his cheerful and lively personality. Lim shared that Ivan was known as “Mr. Congeniality” because of his ability to easily get along with everyone he met.
In tribute to the late singer, fellow musicians paid their respects during his wake, honoring his contributions to Cordilleran music.
Meanwhile, charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and damage to property have already been filed against the 40-year-old truck driver involved in the incident.
Ivan’s remains are currently lying in state at the Resurrection Church along Magsaysay Avenue in Baguio City, and he is scheduled to be laid to rest on March 26. He is survived by his wife and two children.
