John Paul Lumakin: Turning Prayers into Songs of Faith

For John Paul Lumakin, music is more than a melody it is a quiet conversation with a friend, an intimate prayer, and a testimony of God’s faithfulness. Born and raised in Baybay City, Leyte, Lumakin now pursues both his studies and his music in Manila, walking the path of a solo acoustic singer-songwriter. His songs, personal and honest, are rooted deeply in faith and everyday life.

“Music has always been close to me,” Lumakin shares. Long before the world heard his originals, he was already singing in church, deeply influenced by worship songs that shaped his heart and sound. What started as casual cover posts during the pandemic unexpectedly grew into something greater people began connecting to his voice and his story. That was the spark that led him to write and share his own songs.

Carrying Baybay City’s Pride

Representing his hometown has been one of Lumakin’s greatest honors. He carried the Baybay City Division banner in the Likhawitan Songwriting Contest in 2021 and 2023, and in 2024, he placed Second in the Araw ng Kagitingan Songwriting Competition. Alongside these milestones, he also won in several local contests across Eastern Visayas.

“These experiences remind me that my music can resonate not only with listeners but also with judges who hear it for the first time,” he reflects.

The Heart of His Songs

Most of Lumakin’s songs are born late at night, with nothing but his guitar and his thoughts. His themes often revolve around love, hope, God’s goodness, and the little details of life. Inspired by OPM artists like TJ Monterde and Dionela, he embraces simplicity and emotional depth in his music proof that raw honesty can move hearts.

Looking ahead, he dreams of richer arrangements and collaborations while staying true to his acoustic roots. “Every song I write is both a story and a prayer,” he says, “a way to connect with people and honor Jesus through music.”

Gipangga Ko Ikaw: A Testimony in Song

Lumakin’s debut single, “Gipangga Ko Ikaw”, is now out on all digital streaming platforms. It is more than just a debut track it is his testimony of how God transformed his struggles into songs of faith.

He wrote it during a time of trials while studying in Tagaytay. What once weighed heavy on his heart became a song of gratitude and surrender. Anchored on his life verse from Exodus 14:14 "The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still” the song offers encouragement to anyone facing life’s storms.

“I thank God for His goodness and mercy, because He has used my journey not just to strengthen me but also to inspire others,” Lumakin shares.

A New Chapter Ahead

Beyond his debut, John Paul continues to write new music, including “Bagong Pahina,” a song about embracing fresh beginnings after heartbreak. The track symbolizes turning pain into purpose and moving forward into brighter days.

For Lumakin, music will always be a reflection of both his story and his faith. And as he continues to share his songs, one thing is clear: each note is a reminder that we are never alone God is always present, turning struggles into songs of hope.