Fr. Eduardo “Honti” Hontiveros, SJ (1923–2008) is widely regarded as the Father of Filipino Liturgical Music. In response to the call of the Second Vatican Council, he began composing hymns in the late 1960s that brought the liturgy closer to the Filipino faithful by using the vernacular. His beloved songs: Pananagutan, Ama Namin, Paghahandog ng Sarili, Papuri sa Diyos, and many others—have become integral to the spiritual life of countless Filipinos.

Fr. Hontiveros had a remarkable gift for writing music that was liturgically sound, theologically rich, and emotionally resonant. His hymns continue to be sung not only in churches across the Philippines but also in Filipino communities around the world—and even in non-religious gatherings—where they evoke a deep sense of faith, identity, and shared memory.

In 2006, he was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Merit in recognition of his profound contribution to Filipino culture and spirituality.

His legacy continues to thrive through recordings, new arrangements, and ongoing musical formation. Most recently, the Pansol Choir released Tubig at Liwanag, a collection of newly arranged Hontiveros hymns that honors his enduring influence and invites new generations into prayerful encounter through music.

To further celebrate his contribution to Filipino liturgical life, Jesuit Communications (JesCom) launched Purihi’t Pasalamatan, a bi-ennial national liturgical music songwriting competition in his honor. This initiative seeks to encourage emerging composers to carry forward Fr. Honti’s mission: creating music that deepens faith, fosters community, and glorifies God with Filipino heart and soul.