By Kate Giordan Flores
The Silliman University Student Government did not assure that this year’s Sillimusika major act will be coming from one of the top pick artists in its recent poll, according to SUSG President Grylle Adrian Malala.
Malala noted the poll’s disclaimer which wrote, “The artist with the most votes in this post is not guaranteed to perform, as final selection depends on availability and contractual agreements.”
Last June 21, the SUSG listed six Original Pinoy Music (OPM) artists and bands which aimed to know students’ interest on who they want to perform via post reactions voting.
Filipino pop-rock band Cup of Joe, hitmaker of “Multo,” emerged as the students’ top choice after garnering over 3,600 reactions as of Aug. 8.
Meanwhile, other OPM artists such as Earl Agustin, Orange & Lemons, Nobita, The Juans, and Maki trailed in the poll.
While the SUSG did not confirm yet the main headliner, Malala shared that they conducted “extensive research and careful consideration” to ensure that the artist(s) will deliver a performance that “people of all ages will truly love and enjoy.”
He also revealed that this year’s opening acts will feature Dumaguete-based student performers, bands, and artists.
“We are excited to showcase the remarkable skills and creativity of Sillimanians this year […] Our goal is to provide expanded opportunities and platforms for all Sillimanians, whether current students or alumni,” he said.
Last year, the concert invited Filipino indie band Lola Amour to mark their first show in Dumaguete City.
Change of venue, ticketing
In a Facebook post, the SUSG announced that this year’s Sillimusika will be held, for the first time, at the Filomeno Cimafranca Ballfield, instead of its usual conduct at the Hibalag grounds for the previous years.
The concert is scheduled on Aug. 28, coinciding with the Founders Day celebration.
Malala said that the event will be strictly “no ticket, no entry” with three ticket classifications for students, alumni, faculty and staff, and outsiders.
“As Sillimusika 2025 is a concert for a cause, it will be a ticketed event […] To help prevent scalping, tickets will be non-refundable and non-transferable. The event will follow a general admission format,” he explained.
Following last year’s controversy, SUSG Vice-President Antonio Delicana said that outsiders and alumni will be allowed to attend but are required to present verification such as a government-issued or alumni ID.
“In cases where an alumni ID is unavailable, a photo of their Portal Yearbook entry may be accepted. Ticket prices will also vary for Sillimanians, alumni, and outsiders,” he shared.
The Sillimusika, a concert for a cause held annually during the Hibalag Booth Festival, is organized by the SUSG in collaboration with other executive committees.
