THE spirit of Bisaya music took center stage as the Himo’g Huni Ika-Pito nga Hugna Original Songwriting Competition concluded with resounding success on April 28, 2025, at the Island City Mall Activity Center, as part of the official Saulog Tagbilaran 2025 festival calendar.
Now in its 7th year, the competition drew over 200 entries from across the Visayas region, celebrating original Bisaya compositions that reflect the creativity, struggles, and passions of local artists.
Eight finalists were selected to perform their songs live before a panel of judges and a cheering audience.
Emerging as Grand Winner was 22-year-old Jun Vincent Sararaña of Tuyom, Carcar City, Cebu, a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) student at the University of Cebu.
His song, “Baklay,” which also earned the Best in Lyricism award, narrates the journey of every dreamer—especially struggling artists—who persist in pursuing their passion despite hardship.
“Baklay is a song for those who continue to walk the long road to their dreams,” Sararaña shared. “It speaks of those, who, despite difficulties, hold on to their belief in themselves, supported by friends who serve as fuel to keep going. It’s a tribute to imagination, self-belief, and resilience. Para ni’s inyo, agaw—uban ta’ng magbaklay aning lasang!” he added.
The First Runner-Up award went to Medelito Matedios Baculpo for his composition “Wa Gyuy Paglubad,” interpreted by Jewel Villaflores and Domedi, while Second Runner-Up went to Hidle Lyn Resurrecion and Dennis Martin for their piece “Gitakda,” also performed by Resurrecion.
The song was likewise awarded Best in Melody.
The Best Interpreter award was presented to Tex Hipolitus Padas and Jessyl Padas for their heartfelt rendition of “Bisaya’ng Pinulungan.”
Mayor Jane Yap, who graced the program, commended the competition’s founder, Fr. Val Pinlac, and organizing head Mr. Joseph Gara for their unwavering commitment to promoting local music and culture.
“Himo’g Huni has become a beacon of hope and a platform for young artists across the Visayas to be heard and celebrated,” Mayor Yap said.
She also announced that the winning performers will be featured during the upcoming ‘Maoy sa Mayo’ on May 4, 2025, giving them the opportunity to share their music with an even broader audience.
Himo’g Huni continues to be a signature component of Saulog Tagbilaran, fostering pride in Bisaya identity and empowering local talents through the power of original music.
