Airmen win historic Sinulog Brass Band Competition

CEBU, Philippines — The 560th Air Base Group Marching Band soared to victory as the grand champion of Cebu’s inaugural Brass Band Competition, held as one of the activities of the Sinulog 2025. The historic event celebrated the rich tradition of brass band music, marking a significant milestone for Cebu’s cultural and musical landscape.

The competition, held at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC), featured six brass bands performing vibrant renditions of popular and Sinulog-inspired tunes. Despite three contingents backing out due to logistical issues, the event showcased outstanding talent and electrifying performances from the remaining participants.

The 560th Air Base Group Marching Band emerged as the standout, clinching the championship title and a grand prize of P300,000. Their performance, an expertly choreographed mix of civic parade movements and Sinulog tunes, highlighted the precision and artistry of air force personnel.

Sergeant Juan Liganya, the band’s conductor, expressed pride in their achievement.

It was also their first time joining a competition, which, according to him, was a reflection that there is finally a platform to recognize brass bands like theirs.

“Para mapalawak din yung mga musikero dito sa Cebu. Kasi as we all know, sa Luzon, ang dami na nila doon; at least dito sa Cebu may nangyayari nang ganito,” he said.

Prior to the competition, he said they only performed mostly during military activities and civic parades. Sometimes they are requested for civilian events and funerals, emphasizing that the competition was a big opportunity for them.

“This competition provided a platform to showcase another side of the Philippine Air Force in the Visayas,” he said. He also lauded the organizers for recognizing the value of brass bands and creating a space for their artistry.

The RNB Youth Symphonic Band from Oslob bagged the P200,000 cash prize as secured the 1st runner-up, while the Symphony Saint Florian Marching Band claimed the 2nd runner-up spot with a prize of P100,000.

A historic first

As the first-ever brass band competition in Cebu, the event drew praise from participants and organizers alike. It provided a platform for brass bands to shine, underscoring their vital role in Cebu’s cultural heritage.

Band leaders highlighted the significance of the competition. Rey Nazareno Burlayan, conductor of the RNB Youth Symphonic Band, described it as a proud moment for his young band members, many of whom were performing at a large event for the first time.

“Dili lang ni para nako. Garbo sad ni namo isip mga Oslobanon. Kini nga talento nga gihatag sa Kahitaas-an, ako ning ipasa kay para pud ni nila,” Burlayan said, emphasizing his commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians.

Julius Lawrence Romero of the Luciano Brass Band from Boljoon celebrated the competition as a reflection of Cebu’s thriving brass band community.

“Naa gyud place ang brass band diri. It is not dead; it is surviving,” Romero said.

Sinulog Foundation Incorporated (SFI) Executive Director Elmer “Jojo” Labella hailed the event as a resounding success and pledged to make the brass band competition a permanent part of Sinulog festivities.

“This is an advocacy. Ato gyud ning palambuon,” Labella said, emphasizing the foundation’s dedication to supporting brass bands in Cebu and beyond.

With its resounding debut, the competition proved to be a celebration of talent, heritage, and community, leaving participants and audiences alike eager for its return in future Sinulog celebrations.--— /FPL (FREEMAN)