Mike Hanopol: From Pinoy Rock Pioneer to Rabbi—A Journey of Faith, Music, and Reinvention
Michael Abarico “Mike” Hanopol was born on April 10, 1946, in Leyte, Philippines. Even as a young boy, his passion for music was unmistakable—by age six he was already plucking tunes on the ukulele, and by the fourth grade he had picked up the guitar. These early years marked the start of a life intertwined with music.Everything Explained TodayLifestyle Inquirer
Resistance, Resolve, and the Road to Rock
Despite his burgeoning musical talent, Mike’s father encouraged him to join the seminary, hoping he would pursue the priesthood. However, his time there proved short-lived as he realized it wasn’t his calling. Instead, he pursued his artistic dreams and later earned a degree in psychology in Iloilo, after nearly seven years of college.Lifestyle Inquirer
A Voice of a Generation
In the vibrant 1970s, Mike Hanopol emerged as one of the chief architects of what became known as Pinoy Rock. He formed the iconic Juan de la Cruz Band alongside Pepe Smith and Wally Gonzales, crafting the soundtrack of a nation with anthems like “Laki sa Layaw (Jeproks)” and “Balong Malalim.”WikipediaLifestyle Inquirer He later founded Hagibis, a trailblazing all-male group with hits such as “Katawan,” showing his versatility as a songwriter and mentor.ronniewriteup.blogspot.comEverything Explained Today
Albums, Awards, and Accolades
Over decades, Mike released over 20 albums, three of which went Gold, and earned three Aliw Awards for his creative achievements.Wikipedia His signature image—beret, leather gear, and Steinberger guitar—became as legendary as his music. He also became a favored opening act for international rock greats such as Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd during their Asian tours.WikipediaWiki 2
American Interlude and a Return Home
In 1982, Mike relocated to the United States. He lived in Florida and New York, continuing his music career and even releasing albums like Pilyong Bata and Buhay Amerika. His time abroad refined his craft and broadened his perspective.Wiki 2ronniewriteup.blogspot.com In the early ’90s, he returned to the Philippines, continuing his musical journey and reuniting with the Juan de la Cruz Band in concerts like the one at Pasay’s World Trade Center in 2005.Wiki 2Wikipedia
From Rocker to Rabbi
A revelation awaited him in the 1970s—in New York, his father introduced him to their extended family and uncovered a Jewish heritage. Intrigued, Mike began exploring Judaism more in 1995, studying the Torah and eventually teaching Messianic Judaism in Antipolo. He humorously recounted that his initial congregation of around sixty dwindled to just ten dedicated followers.GMA NetworkLifestyle Inquirer
In 2016, he made history as the Philippines’ first Filipino ordained as a rabbi—an extraordinary milestone for a figure so deeply rooted in rock and roll.PEP.phCoconuts
Music Meets Spirituality
This spiritual journey deeply influenced his art. Songs like “Balong Malalim” incorporate verses from the Book of John, while his album Lagablab features lyrics inspired by Psalms and the Ten Commandments.WikipediaEverything Explained Today His embrace of “Pinoy Judaism,” as he dubbed it, reflects his intent to make the teachings accessible to Filipinos—just as Pinoy rock was rooted in Filipino emotion and sensibility.Lifestyle Inquirer
Renaissance in the Spotlight
In 2018, Mike resurfaced with Mike Hanopology: Ang Sekreto, an album recorded in 1993 but released decades later. It brimmed with raw, electrifying improvisations—from extended versions of his classics to jazz-inflected jams. His performance at ’70s Bistro combined blistering guitar solos with philosophical musings on spirituality—leaving audiences awestruck.Lifestyle Inquirer
Crisis, Fear, and Rising Again
In June 2021, Mike tested positive for COVID-19. His oxygen levels dropped drastically, leading to hospitalization in San Mateo, Rizal. Thanks to medical care—and the outpouring of support—he recovered. The experience brought him face-to-face with his own mortality. Reflecting on his journey, he credited a reverence for nature and a focus on common sense as keys to his resilience.WikipediaLifestyle Inquirer
A Life Still in Motion
Today, at 79, Mike Hanopol remains active both musically and spiritually. In 2025, Jeffrox the Musical—a stage production celebrating his life and songs—premiered at the GSIS Theater at CCP. It stands as a testament to his enduring influence in Filipino music and culture.WikipediaLifestyle Inquirer
Conclusion
Mike Hanopol is more than a rock legend—he is a testament to the power of reinvention. From the smoky stages of Pinoy rock to the solemn halls of spiritual teaching, he has embodied the transformative power of music and faith. His legacy is one of creative brilliance, spiritual depth, and cultural leadership—a story that continues to inspire generations of Filipinos.
