The pre-judging phase of the Balon Himno na Bayambang Songwriting Contest was held at the Municipal Hall on February 28, 2017.

Five judges made up of esteemed members of the local academe screened the entries. They were Melanie R. Junio (Chairman of the Board), Ma. Cristina C. Gamo, Jennifer Paragas, Oscar Ora, and the Chairman of the Bayambang Municipal Council of Culture and the Arts, Januario Cuchapin.

The contenders that made the cut are as follows:

1. “Ang Bayan Naming Bayambang” by Lea Menor Bumatay
2. “Inarok ya Bayambang” by PSU MAPEH students
3. “Dakep na Bayambang” by St. Vincent Ferrer Parish Church
4. “Abig tan Liket” by Brgy. Inirangan
5. “Balon Bayambang” by Brgy. Nalsian Sur
6. “Bayambang Hymn” by Joy M. Mostoles of Zone VI

The entries were evaluated based on the following criteria: originality and creativity (35%), lyrics (35%), musicality (20%), and overall impact (10%).
The composer/s of the winning piece will receive P50,000. A consolation prize of P5,000 each will be handed to the non-winners.
The winner will be announced on March 28, and the winning piece will become the official hymn of the municipality of Bayambang.
(Bayambang PIO/Media Affairs Office)