Twelve original compositions from almost 4,000 entries—submitted by songwriters from the Philippines and across the world—have finally been selected as finalists to compete in the country’s grandest songwriting contest, ABS-CBN’s Himig Handog 2019.
 
These entries will be brought to life by a diverse set of interpreters—some of whom also penned the tracks that they will be interpreting.
 
Himig Handog hall of famers Daniel Padilla and Moira Dela Torre will return to this year’s competition by joining forces in performing Dan Martel Simon Tañedo’s “Mabagal.”
 
In addition, “The Killer Bride” star Janella Salvador once again joins the roster of interpreters by singing "Nung Tayo Pa" of Rex Torremoro and Elmar Jann Bolaño.
 
Former “Idol Philippines” contestant Alekzandra Nicolle Quitalig will compete this time with her own composition, “Alaala,” while Davao-based singer-songwriter Eamarie Gilayo will likewise interpret her own song, "Ikaw at Linggo."
 
Meanwhile, "Isa Pang Ikaw," composed by Joseph Ponce will be sung by former “X Factor Australia” contestant and Star Music artist Justin Vasquez. Vanya Castor, who also previously joined ”Idol Philippines,” will now try her luck in a different contest by interpreting “Paano Ba,” penned by composer Richanne Charms Jacinto.
 
On the other hand, acoustic balladeer TJ Monterde will perform “Panandalian,” from composers Jerome Arcangel and Cee Jay Del Rosario.
 
Actress, singer and vlogger Alex Gonzaga will meanwhile sing the composition of Michael Angelo "Aikee" Aplacador titled “Please Lang.”
 
Former “X Factor Philippines” contender Joan Da will interpret her song with LJ Manzano, while singer-songwriter Davey Langit comes back in the competition—this time as an interpreter of the song “Simula ng Dulo,” which he co-wrote with Therese Marie Villarante.
 
MYX Music Awards 2019’s New Artist of the Year, I Belong To The Zoo, will be the interpreter of Ferdinand Aragon’s song “Ingat.”
 
Finally, “Tawag ng Tanghalan” champion Janine Berdin will perform “Sa’yong Mundo,” composed by Noel Zuniga Cabalquinto.
 
Over the years, the songs produced in Himig Handog have made a mark on the entertainment scene. True to its mission, ABS-CBN’s songwriting competition has also continuously brought about the best of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) by searching for outstanding musical compositions from all over the world.
 
Last year, the love song “Sa Mga Bituin Na Lang Ibubulong,” composed by Kyle Raphael Borbon of Davao and interpreted by JM De Guzman, was recognized as the “Best Song.”
 
Watch out for the digital release of these 12 new tracks this Friday (August 2) on all digital music stores worldwide. For details, like @HimigHandog2019 on Facebook. You may also visit starmusic.ph, like Star Music on facebook.com/starmusicph, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram @ StarMusicPH.