As the Filipino faithful prepare for Holy Week, Jesuit Communications (JesCom) presents its 19th Lenten TV special, “HIMIG”, a documentary that explores how Catholic music strengthens faith and uplifts the soul. Airing on GMA-7 this Black Saturday, April 19, at 7:30 AM, the documentary features inspiring stories of faith, redemption, and devotion through music.
At the heart of “HIMIG” is the legacy of Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ, regarded as the Father of Filipino Liturgical Music. His compositions, including “Papuri sa Diyos,” “Luwalhati,” and “Pananagutan,” remain central to Filipino Catholic worship, continuing to shape how generations express their faith through the gift of song.
As JesCom continues to honor Fr. Honti’s enduring impact, the PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN: Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ Liturgical Music Songwriting Competition invites a new generation of composers to follow in the esteemed Jesuit’s footsteps. With just a few weeks left before the submission deadline on April 19th, 2025, the competition calls on amateur and professional songwriters to create original liturgical music for the Holy Mass, inspired by the seven Catholic Social Teachings.
A Celebration of Music, Worship, and Fr. Honti’s Vision
“HIMIG” tells the stories of three individuals whose faith and music have guided them through life’s greatest challenges:
A convict-turned-composer, who found purpose in serving the prison music ministry.
A choir member battling renal failure, whose faith remains steadfast in song.
An OFW leading her parish choir in Hong Kong, finding spiritual strength despite being far from home.
For the first time in Philippine media, “HIMIG” also brings together the voices behind some of the country’s most beloved liturgical hymns. Featuring interviews with Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ, and Fr. Arnel Aquino, SJ, the documentary retraces how Fr. Honti’s pioneering compositions gave Filipino Catholics a heartfelt voice, that resonated in their prayers.
A Call to Continue the Mission
As JesCom renews its commitment to evangelization through media, the PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN songwriting competition serves as a bridge between Fr. Honti’s legacy and the future of Filipino liturgical music. With a grand prize of ₱100,000 at stake, the competition seeks to inspire and encourage talented composers to dedicate their craft in service to the Church.
PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN finalists will be announced on June 20, 2025. Entries in Filipino and other local languages are highly encouraged, ensuring that Fr. Honti’s vision of making sacred music accessible to all continues to flourish.
A Holy Week Reflection in Song
As Holy Week 2025 approaches, “HIMIG” and PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN remind us that music is more than its melody—it is sincere prayer, humble service, and unwavering faith in action.
(AMDG)
Submit your entry to PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN before April 19th!
Visit https://jescom.ph/purihit-pasalamatan for full competition details.
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