On October 9, Saturday, Hangad Music Ministry celebrates their 30th anniversary with friends, family, and supporters via an online concert called “Hangad Habambuhay!”. The concert starts at 7:30 PM and will feature special guests such as singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso.
Formed in 1991 in the halls of Ateneo High School in Quezon City, Hangad Music Ministry or simply “Hangad” has come a long way from being a group of friends singing for Masses to establishing a music ministry in constant search of knowing God through music. In fact, “knowing God and helping others know God through music” has become the group’s unofficial mission statement, as it seeks to discover the Lord through classic songs such as “Panunumpa”, “Pagibig Ko”, “Pananatili”, and “Pagkakaibigan”. In the course of 30 years, with its partnership with the Jesuit Music Ministry of the Jesuit Communications Foundation, Hangad has produced fourteen albums and countless music videos, winning an Awit Award in 2007 for “Pieta: Oyayi sa Paanan ni Hesus” and a Catholic Mass Media Award in 2020 for “Maging Katulad Mo”.
Five years ago, Hangad had its milestone 25th celebration through a successful concert at the then-called Kia Theater in Araneta, Cubao. This year, however, to adapt to the current health crisis and to abide by community guidelines, Hangad has once again chosen to hold their celebration online such as last year’s “Home with Hangad”.
Through this concert, Hangad wishes to spread the message of hope during these trying times – that in pain and suffering, there is love and light, and in death, there is life. The title “Hangad Habambuhay” speaks of our unwavering desire to seek, serve, and love God, most especially during times of trouble and despair.
Joining Hangad during this concert are six choirs from different parts of the country – Solemne from Quezon City, Himig Agustino from Cavite, Seven Archangels Choir also from Cavite, Mater Dei Music Ministry from Pampanga, PraiseHymn from Albay, and Himig Cristo Chorale from Leyte.
Hangad’s target beneficiary for this concert is the Tanging Yaman Foundation, led by Father Manoling Francisco SJ. The Tanging Yaman Foundation has consistently helped communities-in-need during the pandemic, distributing food and supplies since the lockdowns started. The different ways to donate or help Tanging Yaman will be communicated before, during, and after the concert. Through their songs, Hangad wishes to be able to contribute to Tanging Yaman’s valiant efforts of helping those in need.
“Hangad Habambuhay!” – the 30th anniversary celebration of Hangad Music Ministry – will stream live on Facebook and YouTube on October 9, from 7:30 PM onwards.
