Compositions reflecting Filipinos’ struggle and hope comprise the Himig Handog 2019 Top 12 entries, competing for the sought-after best song recognition from the country’s biggest songwriting tilt.
From almost 4,000 entries, the song finalists are down to 12, now produced and brought to life by this year’s selected interpreters.
Daniel Padilla and Moira Dela Torre return to this year’s competition and collaborate for Dan Martel Simon Tañedo’s “Mabagal.”
Janella Salvador also returns to sing “Nung Tayo Pa” by Rex Torremoro and Elmar Jann Bolaño.
Alekzandra Nicolle Quitalig sings her own composition, “Alaala,” while Davao-based singer-songwriter Eamarie Gilayo likewise interprets her own song, “Ikaw at Linggo.”
Vanya Castor interprets “Paano Ba,” penned by composer Richanne Charms Jacinto. Meanwhile, “Isa Pang Ikaw,” composed by Joseph Ponce is performed by Justin Vasquez.
TJ Monterde performs “Panandalian,” by Jerome Arcangel and Cee Jay Del Rosario.
Alex Gonzaga sings the composition of Michael Angelo “Aikee” Aplacador, “Please Lang.”
Joan Da interprets her song with LJ Manzano, “Sasabihin Ko,” while singer-songwriter Davey Langit performs “Simula ng Dulo,” which he cowrote with Therese Marie Villarante.
I Belong To The Zoo sings Ferdinand Aragon’s song “Ingat,” while Janine Berdin gives her rendition of “Sa’yong Mundo,” composed by Noah Zuniga.
ABS-CBN’s songwriting competition has continuously brought about the best of OPM by searching for outstanding musical compositions from all over the world.
The grand winner will take home P1 million, while the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th placers get P500,000, P200,000, P150,000 and P100,000 cash prizes, respectively.
Grand finals will be on Oct. 13.