A STAFF from the University of Santo Tomas bagged the top prize of the 14th HuNiño: Huni Halad Alang Kang Senyor Santo Niño, a songwriting contest organized by the Basilica Minore of Santo Niño de Cebu.

Communications Bureau post-production staff Mr. Irineo Hernandez III was recognized for his composition entitled “Batang Hari: Aming Señor Santo Niño.”

The contest is an annual musical celebration that honors the devotion to the Señor Santo Niño through original compositions.

Hernandez is a member of the Santo Domingo Male Chorale and Tiples de Santo Domingo, two choral groups known for their liturgical performances.

He earned a degree in advertising arts from the College of Fine Arts and Design in 2003.

In 2016, he won the UAAP Season 79 Songwriting Contest, adding to his growing list of accolades.

He also received the top prize in the Mercy and Compassion Song Writing Contest in 2015, held in celebration of Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines.