After months of prayerful discernment and careful evaluation, the Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM) proudly announced on July 5, 2025, the Top 7 finalists of Purihi’t Pasalamatan: The Eduardo Hontiveros SJ National Liturgical Songwriting Competition.
From a remarkable pool of 150 original compositions submitted from across Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and even abroad, these finalists stood out for their depth of spirituality, musical artistry, and pastoral relevance—reflecting the rich legacy of Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ, regarded as the “Father of Filipino Liturgical Music.”
The top seven finalists, listed in no particular order, are the following:
“Umawit ang Sambayanan” by Jay-El Blaza-Viteño
Choir: The Eastern Chamber Singers
Christ the King Parish, Greenmeadows, Quezon City
“Narito ang Diyos (Ubi Caritas)” by Gianpaolo Eleria
Choir: The Philippine Madrigal Singers
Archdiocese of San Francisco, California, USA
“Halad Pasalamat” by Jundel Bacalso
Choir: Liturgical Yodelers Recoletos (LYRe)
Mt. Carmel Parish Recoletos, Talisay City, Cebu
“Tayo’y Magsiawit at Magpuri” by Erwin D. Vargas
Choir: Ambassadors for Christ Chamber Singers
Mary Our Mother Queen of Peace Ministry, Lucban, Quezon
“Magtipon Bayan ng Diyos” by Fr. Leo G. Alaras
Choir: Coro Recoleto
University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos, Bacolod City
“We Come to You” by Anthony Go Villanueva (composer) and Joel Zaporteza (lyricist)
Choir: Kammerchor Manila
Hearts of Jesus and Mary Parish, Quezon City
“Among Mga Halad” by Bryan Angelo Bisin (composer) and Nathaniel Cabanero (lyricist)
Choir: Koro Crescendo
Parish: San Isidro Labrador Parish, Libungan, Cotabato
The announcement comes after an intensive selection process led by three esteemed judges: Norman Agatep of Bukas Palad Music Ministry, Kenneth Dacanay of Hangad, and acclaimed choral arranger and composer Aldo Joson. The distinguished panel’s deep experience and devotion to liturgical music played a significant role in shaping this landmark moment in contemporary Filipino worship.
The inaugural run of Purihi’t Pasalamatan not only affirms the creative vitality of Filipino liturgical composers but also uplifts the core messages of fundamental Catholic Social Teachings—justice, human dignity, solidarity, and care for creation—all expressed through the gift of song.
Finals Night, where the finalists will present their original works, indeed promises to be a powerful celebration of prayer and praise. More details will be announced soon.
As the Church continues to sing in the language of the people, the Jesuit Music Ministry joins hands with all who have wholeheartedly offered their musical talents—Purihi’t Pasalamatan natin ang Panginoon!
AMDG
