As the nation mourns the loss of one of its most iconic voices, a group of local artists from East Sepik has come together to honour the late Daniel Bilip.
Forming under the name Sepik Collectives Band, the group has launched a heartfelt effort to raise funds for his funeral service, set to take place in Mt Hagen.
Led by committee spokesperson Gabriel Kaivi Jnr, the group held a three-day fundraising drive in Wewak town, which concluded on Friday, 17th October 2025. Gabriel confirmed that over K10,000 was raised on the final day alone, thanks to the generous support of family, friends, and the wider community.
In a remarkable show of unity and commitment, more than 30 members of the collective began their journey to Mt Hagen early this morning, departing by dinghy at 2:00 AM for Madang, where they will continue their travels by road.
As a cultural tribute, the Sepik Collectives Band will present traditional offerings to Daniel Bilip’s family, including two large crocodiles (pukpuk), betel nuts (buai), daka, food, and woven baskets — all symbolic gestures of appreciation and respect in Sepik custom.
“We gathered more than K10,000, along with pukpuks, buai, daka, food, and baskets as a token of our appreciation to our late brother Daniel Bilip’s family in Mt Hagen,” said Gabriel.
He also noted that the Sepik Collectives Band is just one of many groups rallying together in preparation for Daniel’s burial on Tuesday, 21st October 2025. Others are also working tirelessly behind the scenes to pay tribute to a man who meant so much to so many.
Among those lending their voice to the cause is PNG FM’s popular radio personality 'Kasty', who was on the ground in Wewak to support the team. His live broadcasts encouraged listeners and bystanders alike to contribute, whether in cash or kind, to help send off one of PNG’s most beloved musical legends.
To many Papua New Guineans, Daniel Bilip was more than a musician — he was the voice of a nation. His songs told stories of everyday life, love, hardship, and hope, resonating from the coastlines to the highlands. His music reminded people of their roots and the shared identity that connects us all.
From humble beginnings to becoming a household name, Daniel inspired generations to take pride in their language and culture.
He encouraged young artists to sing in their mother tongues and embrace the richness of their heritage. His lyrics, full of wisdom and emotion, carried the heartbeat of PNG.
Though he may have passed, Daniel Bilip’s legacy will live on through every song, every celebration, and every quiet moment his music fills. Because true legends never die; they live forever in the hearts they touch.
