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Continuing its mission to uphold and revitalize the rich tradition of Filipino liturgical music, the Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM) proudly introduces PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN: The Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros SJ Liturgical Music Songwriting Competition.

As the music division of Jesuit Communications (JesCom)—the media arm of the Society of Jesus’ Philippine province and the producer behind the acclaimed film Gomburza—JMM spearheads this landmark initiative.

A tribute to Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ, affectionately known as the “Father of Filipino Liturgical Music,” PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN seeks to inspire a new wave of composers to create original liturgical music in the vernacular. The competition aims to ensure that sacred music continues to serve as a powerful link between Filipino faith and culture.

Competition Details:

• Open to all Filipino composers
• Participants must submit original liturgical compositions in the vernacular
• Entries will be judged based on musicality, originality, and liturgical appropriateness
• Theme: Catholic Social Teaching of the Church
• All entries must be submitted on or before April 19, 2025

Prizes:

• First Prize: Php 100,000
• Second Prize: Php 50,000
• Third Prize: Php 30,000
• Finalists: Php 10,000 each

For full contest mechanics and submission guidelines, visit https://jescom.ph/purihit-pasalamatan/.

Building on the momentum of the successful Honti@100 year-long celebration and the grand tribute concert, LUWALHATI SA DIYOS, JMM is committed to continuing Fr. Honti’s pioneering work. The competition’s objectives are rooted in his belief that liturgical music is a powerful tool for evangelization.

“We envision PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN as a platform for fostering creativity and collaboration while preserving the essence of Filipino worship,” shared Lester Mendiola, JMM Director. “This is our way of encouraging composers and musicians to contribute to the rich tapestry of Filipino liturgical music while bringing fresh perspectives to sacred worship.”

The competition underscores the importance of music in Filipino Catholic faith life, where choirs and music ministries play a vital role in parish communities. By encouraging the creation of new compositions, PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN supports the ongoing renewal of liturgical worship while preserving cultural and artistic traditions.

“With this competition, we would like to encourage composers to create original liturgical songs in the vernacular, promote Filipino sacred music as a significant part of worship and cultural heritage, and foster collaboration among composers, musicians, and choirs to enrich the liturgical music community,” said Mr. Mendiola.

The competition was unveiled via a media launch on January 28, 2025. The deadline of the submission of entries is on April 19, 2025. Finalists will be announced on June 20, 2025.

The competition will be held biennially, inviting Filipino composers, choirs, and music enthusiasts to participate.

Hence, the Jesuit Music Ministry invites composers, musicians, and choirs nationwide to participate in this meaningful endeavor. For inquiries and updates on competition mechanics, follow JMM on social media (.facebook.com/jesuitmusicministry) or visit the official JesCom website (jescom.ph)

“Through PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN let us unite in faith and music- celebrating the enduring power of sacred song to uplift and inspire Filipino Catholics in the years to come. All for the greater glory of God!” Mr. Mendiola concluded.