A graduating student of the University of Cebu emerged triumphant in the Huniño - Huni Halad Alang Kang Santo Niño de Cebu Songwriting Contest 2008 held yesterday night at the Sto. Niño Pilgrims' Center.
Wilson Mendez Jr., 25, a Management Accounting student, won the grand prize after being chosen as the best interpreter during the contest with the winning song “Sto. Niño Kaloy-i Ako” composed by Jafet Vistal.
In an interview with The Freeman Mendez revealed that he was not expecting to win since this was the first time he joined a big song competition.
“I came here to pray through singing,” Mendez said.
Meanwhile, Danica Caballes, 11, won the second prize with the song “Daghang Salamat, O Santo Niño” composed by Emmanuel Abellana, while “Viva Sto. Nino” written by Niño Jame Bañares and interpreted by Wilson Po, won the third place.
The grand prize winner and composer received P50,000 cash, the second prize winner went home with P30,000 and, P20,000 went to the third prize winner. All of them also received specially designed trophies.
Another P10,000 cash was given to the best interpreter while each finalist also received P5,000 cash and a plaque.
This year's winning songs will be included in the Huniño CD album for this year. The sales of the CDs, each worth P250, will go to the Basilica del Santo Niño Children's Welfare Foundation, Inc.
The original liturgical songwriting contest was launched early last year by the Basilica del Sto. Niño de Cebu to further promote the devotion to the Holy Child.
The whole musical performance night was accompanied live by the Huniño Symphony Orchestra under Prof. Roberto del Rosario.
The show was also graced by ABS-CBN Born Diva grand winner Raki Vega together with the San Diego dancers. - Phoebe Jen Indino/BRP