The Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM) of Jesuit Communications (JesCom) celebrated a new generation of Filipino liturgical songwriters at the awarding and press conference of the first-ever “Purihi’t Pasalamatan” National Songwriting Competition, held on October 22, 2025 at Kalle 5, Quezon City.
The competition honored original liturgical compositions that express prayer and thanksgiving through music — continuing the legacy of Fr. Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ, regarded as the Father of Filipino Liturgical Music, whose pioneering works gave voice to the Filipino faithful in worship and prayer.
In his message, Fr. Nono Alfonso, SJ, Executive Director of JesCom, encouraged young composers to write music that helps the faithful pray and worship together.
Over 149 entries were received from across the country and outside the Philippines. The Preliminary Round panel featured respected composers and church musicians Norman Agatep, Kenneth Dacanay, and Aldo Joson, who helped select the finalists for the Finals Board of Judges led by Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ (Chairman), with Prof. Alejandro Consolacion II, Dra. Maria Theresa Vizconde-Roldan, Prof. Jude B. Roldan, Fr. Fruto Ramirez, SJ, and Fr. Nemesio Que, SJ.
Six finalists were recognized for their inspiring works:
● Halad Pasalamat – Jundel Bacalso, LYRe
● Ang Among Mga Halad – Bryan Angelo Bisin & Nathaniel Cabañero, Koro Crescendo
● Magtipon Bayan ng Diyos – Fr. Leo Alaras, Coro Recoleto
● Tayo’y Magsiawit at Magpuri – Erwin Vargas, Ambassadors for Christ Chamber Singers
● Umawit ang Sambayanan – Jay-El Viteño, The Eastern Chamber Singers
● We Come to You – Anthony Villanueva & Joel Zaporteza, Kammerchor Manila
The winners are:
● First Prize – “We Come to You” by Anthony Go Villanueva and Joel Zaporteza, performed by Kammerchor Manila (prize: ₱100,000 and a plaque of recognition)
● Second Prize – “Umawit ang Sambayanan” by Jay-El Blaza Viteño, performed by The Eastern Chamber Singers (prize: ₱50,000 and a plaque of recognition)
● Third Prize – “Tayo’y Magsiawit at Magpuri” by Erwin D. Vargas, performed by Ambassadors for Christ Chamber Singers (prize: ₱30,000 and a plaque of recognition)
The evening also featured reflections on Fr. Hontiveros’ profound impact on Filipino liturgical music and a call to the next generation of composers to continue writing songs of faith and worship.
Looking ahead, the “Purihi’t Pasalamatan” National Songwriting Competition will be held every two years, continuing JMM’s mission to nurture Filipino composers and inspire new music for worship.
