Timeless Cebuano songs get awards from Gullas

Timeless Cebuano songs "Kasadya Ning Taknaa" and "Matud Nila," were the first recipients of the Dr. Jose R. Gullas Awards last Wednesday night.

The event called "Halad: Sugbuanong Kanta" held at the Casino Español de Cebu in coordination with The Freeman, Banat News and ABS-CBN's dyAB, acknowledged "Kasadya Ning Taknaa" composer Vicente Rubi and lyricist Mariano Vestil, and "Matud Nila" composer Ben Zubiri for their remarkable and lasting contributions to Cebuano music.

First to be recognized was Vestil, whose award was received by his son Hernani. Rubi's award was also received by his son, Rudolfo.

Rubi and Vestil, who were friends and neighbors, came up with the music, "Kasadya" in 1933. Since then the song has been translated to various local dialects and continues to be a source of pride for many Cebuanos wherever they go.

Ben Zubiri's daughter, Edwina Zubiri-Samson, received the award for her father after her 90-year old mother failed to attend due to health reasons.

Zubiri, also known as Iyo Karpo, recorded the famous composition "Matud Nila" in 1941 with its haunting melody and romantic idealism. The song has been considered an immortal Cebuano song.

The families of the Vestil, Rubi and Zubiri, who also received cash gifts from Gullas, expressed their elation over the recognition given to the composers.

"If nothing is done, Cebuano songs will continue to decline and these songs, which are reflective of our soul, will eventually vanish, and we will then be a people without a song and eventually lose our identity," Gullas said in his speech. - Garry B. Lao/BRP