RIYADH, 31 July 2006 — The Asosasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-aawit (APM) announced yesterday the names of the eight finalists who will compete in the songwriting contest at the Philippine Embassy on Thursday, starting at 6 p.m.
They are Roger Esquivas (“Now That You’ve Left Me Behind”), Aries Silverio (“You Sheltered Me Again”), Romeo Carbonell (“Pag-ibig Mo Katumbas Ang Buhay Ko”), Kervin Dy Sawyer (“Destiny”), Rommel De Leon (“Pasasalamat Kay Inay”), Eugene Juanich (“Look at Me Now”), Mary Pauline Dela Cueva (“Breathe Again”), and Malou Manarang Silverio (“Pangako”).
Jeffrey Almendras, APM founder and chairman, said his group’s resident singers and talents (Wowette Rigor, Richard Balgos, Raymond Castiller, Mariel Chua, Lowelene Tolentino, Wilson Mendoza and Michelle Martinez) are to interpret the songs, while Sawyer, Juanich and Dela Cueva will sing their own compositions.
The first three best compositions will each receive a trophy, with the first placer getting an additional cash prize. A trophy will also be awarded to the best interpreter. All eight entries will receive certificates of recognition and consolation prizes.
Dubbed Pinoy Song Festival 2006, the event is the first anniversary presentation of APM. The APM is a group of singers and band players, aimed at enhancing their craft and as well infusing the Filipino tradition among compatriots in this foreign land.
Almendras said the show is open to the public, free of charge.
APM said the event is being sponsored or supported by Pepsi (Al-Jomaih), DCF-Cargo, Arab National Bank (Telemoney), Pinoy Supermarket, COD Express, Comsofil, UPIS, Hero/Kabayani Cargo, HMG Lights & Sound, PGBI-Riyadh, Rithmo Band, MKB, Al-Danah International School, Gerome Lago, Ronnie Precillas, and Friends of APM, Orbit-Pinoy Plus, TFC (the Filipino Channel), and the Philippine Embassy.
