The Backyard Pub roared with thunderous applause and electrifying music on April 26 as SIGABONG XXXIV: IGNITUS, the annual band competition hosted by the UP Hamili Brotherhood and UP Hamilia Sisterhood, crowned Tinuga of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISATU) as its overall champion.
Now on its 34th year, SIGABONG has become a hallmark of grassroots music culture in Iloilo, serving as a launching pad for young, genre-defying artists in Western Visayas. This year’s edition—aptly themed IGNITUS—lived up to its name, igniting the stage with raw talent, original compositions, and a fierce yet festive energy.
Fiery Showdowns and Explosive Talent
Emerging victorious among a lineup of skilled college-based bands, Tinuga captured both the judges’ nod and the crowd’s affection, earning not just the top prize but also the Fan Favorite award. Their set blended high-octane performance with tight musicality, making them a standout from start to finish.
Following closely behind was Alab from West Visayas State University (WVSU), who took home First Runner-Up along with two special awards: Best Composition and Best Keyboardist. Their original song, praised for its lyrical intensity and complex structure, resonated with both fans and fellow musicians.
Central Philippine University’s Decipher rounded out the winners as Second Runner-Up. The group swept two technical awards—Best Drummer and Best Bassist—highlighting their rhythmic precision and stage confidence.
Individual Brilliance
The event also recognized individual artistry across instrumental categories. Synthax from the University of San Agustin (USA) brought home accolades for Best Guitarist and Best Vocalist, drawing attention for their dynamic lead vocals and genre-bending guitar solos.
Organizers emphasized the event’s role in fostering musical camaraderie and cultural expression: SIGABONG is not just a competition. It’s a celebration of passion, identity, and the voice of the youth.
Guest performers, alumni bands, and a full house of enthusiastic supporters contributed to a night that transcended rivalry, spotlighting unity and creativity in Iloilo’s thriving college music scene.
As the last amp was unplugged and the night gave way to morning, one message rang clear: the spirit of SIGABONG burns brighter each year, thanks to the fire lit by the region’s next generation of musical storytellers.
Sidebar: 2025 SIGABONG XXXIV: IGNITUS – Winners List
- Overall Champion:Tinuga – ISATU
- 1st Runner-Up:Alab – WVSU
- 2nd Runner-Up:Decipher – CPU
- Fan Favorite:Tinuga – ISATU
Special Awards:
- Best Composition:Alab – WVSU
- Best Bassist:Decipher – CPU
- Best Keyboardist:Alab – WVSU
- Best Guitarist:Synthax – USA
- Best Drummer:Decipher – CPU
- Best Vocalist:Synthax – USA
