Episode-79 | Aired-February 22, 2015

Mahal Mo Ako
Composer: Maria Loida Estrada
Interpreter: Sabrina

ASOP has finally named its 6th qualifier for the Grand Finals at last night’s February Monthly Finals.

The 50,000 peso cash prize went to Maria Loida Estrada of Zamboanga for her reggae composition “Mahal Mo Ako,” performed by Asia’s acoustic sweetheart, Sabrina.

Loida thanks her mom, an avid ASOP fan, for urging her to submit “Mahal Mo Ako,” and believing in her.

“Mahal Mo Ako,” is a charismatic, happy piece that talks about seeing God’s love through His creations. Doc Mon del Rosario described it as a perfect specimen for song writing students.

Paanyaya

Composer: Euryville Requio
Interpreter: Voysing

The upbeat harmony of Euryville’s “Paanyaya” as performed by Voysing set the excitement level in the room to high.

In his interview, Euryville admitted to being overwhelmed and speechless when he won in the weekly finals. Though nervous at first, ASOP made him realize that song writing is his true passion.

Unlike other entries, Euryville did not change anything in the song since his win. The judges seemed to agree with that move as they all loved it like they did the first time. While the words and message were simple enough to understand, the lively melody made it more likeable.

Tanging Ikaw (Formerly “Ikaw Ang Tangi”)
Composer: Bernabe Escudero, Jr.
Interpreter: MJ Podolig
In his interview, Bernabe shared that he did’t expect to win when he did in the weekly eliminations. He is grateful for the opportunity because he was able to use his prize money for the medical treatment of his mother.

The judges commented on the marked improvement in Bernabe’s “Tanging Ikaw,” starting with the title change from its original “Ikaw Ang Tangi.” He was following a suggestion by Doc Mon del Rosario regarding chorus change which led Bernabe to change the title as well.
Bernabe also took Judge Ito Rapada’s advice to tweak the lyrics which helped in the coherence of the song. Even the interpretation by MJ Podolig levelled up because he now has a better understanding of the song the second time around.