On its 30th year, the Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) has recognized Bukas Palad Music Ministry's HINDI KITA MALILIMUTAN as best religious album in ceremonies staged at the GSIS Theater in Pasay City yesterday, October 29, 2008. HINDI KITA MALILIMUTAN bested four other finalists in the category including Gary Valenciano's REBIRTH and Timmy Cruz's MY GUIDING LIGHT.
Bukas Palad's HINDI KITA MALILIMUTAN is an album that celebrates over 20 years of the group's music and ministry. The double-disc project contains 20 tracks: 10 liturgical hymns appropriate for celebrating the Eucharist, and 10 inspirational tunes that are radio-friendly. In the album are songs written by fellow Bukas Palad members, by winners of a song-writing contest mounted by the group, and by guest musicians Gary Granada and Noel Cabangon who appear in the CD along with violin virtuoso Coke Bolipata.
Throughout its ministry, Bukas Palad has written, recorded, and performed songs that reflect the group's faith and love for God. Its more popular hymns include Hindi Kita Malilimutan, Anima Christi, Sa 'Yo Lamang, Tanging Yaman, I Will Sing Forever, and Humayo't Ihayag. The group was formed in 1986 by college friends who were members of the Ateneo Student Catholic Action and Ateneo Christian Life Community led by Fr. Manoling Francisco, Norman Agatep, and Jandi Arboleda, who had started collaborating on religious songs when they were in high school.
Bukas Palad is currently on national tour, performing in concerts and conducting choral workshops across the country. The group's album, HINDI KITA MALILIMUTAN produced by the Jesuit Communications Foundation is available in record stores nationwide. The CDs may also be purchased in Tanging Yaman outlets at the Sonolux Building and Loyola House of Studies in Ateneo de Manila, at the Gateway Mall, and at SM Megamall Building B.
