“Matindi po ang mga naglalabang awitin. MATINDI PO!” as host Richard Reynoso reiterated in his opening remarks at the 5th Monthly Finals of A Song Praise Year 5.

Resident judge Mon ‘Doktor Musiko’ del Rosario, together with guest judges Pat Castillo and Ito Rapadas, expected an musical battle. Doc Mon even quipped he has been sharpening his scalpel for a week, ready to dissect anatomies of the songs. First off, was Jeluwin Duran’s “I Worship You” which was very well performed by Mic Llave. Judge Rapadas was wowed by it’s international appeal. Doc Mon marked it as a strong contender.

The second entry was a composition by Angelica Soriano, a dental nurse from Kuwait, titled “Tanging Ligaya.” Janice Javier’s outstanding rendition breathed life into the lyrics, and made it more relatable. Doc Mon was amazed by its dramatic lines yet upbeat melody.

Last but not the least, was “My Tear-filled Handkerchief Will Dry” by New York-based composers Hernanie Ramos and Pabemazar Atienza which was interpreted by no less than Kellyboy Ricafort. Judges Rapadas and Castillo unanimously commended the song for its unique, unconventional form.
Amid tough battle, “Tanging Ligaya” emerged victorious garnering an average score of 95%. Aside from P50, 000 cash prize and a spot at Grand Finals night, Soriano and her composition will be included in ASOP commemorative CD.