In the heart of Filipino Catholic liturgical music, the beloved hymns of Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ, echo with profound simplicity and spiritual depth. Regarded as the “Father of Filipino Liturgical Music,” Fr. Honti, as he was affectionately called, transformed the way Filipino Catholics pray and sing, creating a legacy that continues to inspire new generations. As the Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM) launches PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN: The Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ Liturgical Music Songwriting Competition, we look back at the remarkable life of this trailblazing Jesuit and his enduring contribution to our faith and culture.
From Humble Beginnings to Pioneering Music Ministry
Born on December 20, 1923, in Molo, Iloilo City, Eduardo P. Hontiveros finished high school at the old Ateneo de Manila campus in Padre Faura in 1939. After World War II, he then pursued a vocation in the priesthood, entering the Society of Jesus on January 28, 1945. Fr. Honti’s journey in the Jesuit order took him to theological studies in the United States and Rome, where he earned a doctorate in theology before returning to teach in the Philippines.
While Fr. Honti was an accomplished professor and seminary formator, it was his musical brilliance that ultimately defined his legacy. In the wake of the Second Vatican Council’s call for liturgical inculturation, Fr. Honti began composing Mass hymns in Tagalog. By engaging choirs in local parishes, he developed music that was not only deeply spiritual but also accessible to the Filipino faithful.
His compositions, including Pananagutan, Ama Namin, Magnificat, and Papuri sa Diyos, became staples in Catholic worship, seamlessly blending faith with Filipino identity.
A Legacy That Lives On
Fr. Honti’s prolific contributions included hundreds of hymns that continue to resonate in churches across the Philippines. His music has inspired generations of gifted liturgical composers, including Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ, and Fr. Arnel Aquino, SJ, who credit him for shaping their creative journeys.
His impact extended beyond music, as Fr. Honti received numerous accolades, including the Papal Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Award and the Ateneo de Manila University’s Tanglaw ng Lahi Award. Even after his passing in 2008, Fr.Honti’s influence remains a guiding force in the renewal of Filipino liturgical music.
Inspiring a New Chapter with PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN
To honor Fr. Honti’s legacy, JMM has launched PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN, a national songwriting competition aimed at fostering original compositions in the vernacular. Among the competition’s objectives are to encourage a new generation of composers to use music as a tool for evangelization; preserve the cultural and artistic traditions of Filipino sacred music; as well as build community and collaboration among homegrown liturgical musicians.
“Fr. Honti’s work was about more than music—it was about bringing people closer to God,” says JMM Director Lester Mendiola. “Through PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN, we hope to inspire a new era of liturgical creativity while preserving the values he cherished.”
Carrying the Torch Forward
As the competition unfolds, PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN carries the promise of ushering in fresh voices that echo the heart of Fr. Honti’s mission: to create music that uplifts, unites, and evangelizes. Fr. Honti’s timeless hymns remind us that while his earthly journey has ended, his music remains a vibrant testament to his faith and love for God and country.
For more information about PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN and how to participate, visit JesCom’s official website (jescom.ph) or follow JMM on social media (facebook.com/jesuitmusicministry)
Together, let us sing in gratitude and celebration of Fr. Honti’s enduring gift to the Church.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
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