On December 11, 2025, the English Major Society (ENGMASOC) held their annual LiteraryโMusical Contest at the Cantabo Canticum Novum Mini Theatre. Hosted by Ms. Nykisha Tadena and Mr. Hans Golle, the program opened with a prayer, the National Anthem, and the SJC Hymn, setting a respectful and heartfelt tone for the day.
To officially begin the event, the hosts welcomed Mr. John Russel Manlangit, ENGMASOC Mayor, whose message resonated deeply with the audience. In a striking reflection on the place of art in modern life, he challenged the belief that poetry and art have lost their relevance. He pointed out the irony that people who dismiss literature often shed tears when a poem is read during funerals or claim they no longer need music and images, yet find themselves moved by films.
Literature and music are the elements that make a human person sensible,โ he declared, urging everyone to revisit their sensibilities. While acknowledging that art is not the entirety of life, he emphasized its transformative roleโguiding us โinto the woods,โ toward the thoughts, values, and questions worth exploring.
After the opening message, the judges for this yearโs Literary Musical Contest were introduced. The Literary Contest judges were Ms. Ronalyn Lucin, a licensed professional teacher and math major; Mr. Riegel Allen Sandigan, an AB English Language Studies graduate; and Mr. John Russel Manlangit, the ENGMASOC mayor. The Musical Contest judges were Ms. Shaina Rodas, a Bachelor of Elementary Education graduate; Ms. Ellajane Oliva; and Ms. Ravim Medalle. The contest officially began after the criteria and expectations were explained.
The Literary Contest started with the Oration, where speakers showed confidence and clear expression. This was followed by the emotional pieces of the Spoken Word Poetry category. The segment ended with the Extemporaneous Speech, where contestants showed quick thinking and excellent communication skills.
Next came the musical contest. The hall was filled with energy as the vocal solo took the stage, followed by the smooth blend of voices in the vocal duet. The MV parody brought laughter and creativity, adding a fun twist to the event.
Everyone grew excited as the winners were announced. In the Literary Contest, Team Litterateurs won the Oration and Spoken Word Poetry, while Team Wordsmith won in Extemporaneous Speech. In the Musical Contest, Team Litterateurs topped the Vocal Solo and MV Parody, while Team Wordsmith won the Vocal Duet.
Certificates of appreciation were then given to all judges, followed by a cheerful photo session that captured the happiness of the moment. Before ending the program, the hosts thanked everyone for their effort and support, saying that the event was successful because of teamwork and a shared love for literature and music.
The 2025 Literary Musical Contest was more than just a competition. It was a reminder that even when life becomes bustling, literature and music help us connect, understand, and find meaning.
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Words: Ivy Limas | The Josephinian
