A POSITIVE message abut caring for the environment was the theme of Eugene Tan’s award-winning Visayan song entry “Ulan”.
Tan’s song bagged two major prizes in last Friday’s 32nd Cebu Popular Music Festival.
It was voted the top song while its group of singers, the Huni Sugbo, was picked Best Interpreter.
Benjie Layos, one of the members, told Cebu Daily News that Tan was unable to attend the event after being hospitalized due to hypertension.
Layos said the award was unexpected because they barely had time to rehearse. The group received a plaque and a cash prize.
Love for Cebu’s rich culture was described in “Cebu Gihigugma Ka” by Bienvenido Racho which won second place.
The song was performed by the Bbcians composed of Roy, Rico and Riel Tabasa with Teody Ebrado and Jonathan Bacus.
Fernando Rabutan’s composition “Bunga” sung by Marielle Montellano won third place.
Regional Trial Court (RTC) Judge Simeon Dumdum Jr., who chaired the board of judges, said contrary to its somber title, “Ulan” was a joyful song that speaks of innocence.
Describing himself as a nature lover, Dumdum said the song also encourages one to love nature more.
Rep. Eduardo Gullas of Cebu’s 1st district said this year’s music festival leaves a legacy of love for the “environment” and “music.” Gullas, who is acknowledged as the father of the Cebu Pop Music Festival, said he wanted to offer these two legacies to the Sto. Niño for his continued guidance.
He said Tropical Storm Sendong, which ravaged the Visayas and Mindanao, should remind people to care for nature.
The music festival also paid tribute to Cebu composer Norman Jabonero for his contribution to the music industry. Jabonero’s song “Panahon Ko Na” was hailed champion in last year’s music festival. Among those who attended the festival were Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma and Msgr. Achilles Dakay.