By Francyn Joyce Algarja

On December 5, 2025, the University Grandstand came alive as Battle of the Bands 2025 featured classic OPM medleys from the 1980s to the 2000s and holiday performances under the theme “Be the Light: Pinoy Playback, The Return of Classic OPM,” with the College of Business and Accountancy emerging as Champion.

Last December 5, 2025, the University Grandstand came alive with music, lights, and nostalgia as Battle of the Bands 2025 was successfully held with the theme “Be the Light: Pinoy Playback, The Return of Classic OPM.” The event aimed to highlight Filipino creativity and revisit the rich retro eras of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) from the 1980s to the 2000s.

The competition encouraged participants and audiences alike to re-experience the classic Pinoy vibe by celebrating the timeless artistry, meaningful lyrics, and iconic sounds that defined generations of Filipino music. Each band showcased an OPM medley that paid tribute to the enduring influence of classic Filipino songs. In line with the holiday season, the bands also performed one Christmas song, adding warmth, joy, and a festive spirit to the event.

After an impressive lineup of performances, the College of Business and Accountancy emerged as Champion, followed by the College of Pharmacy in First Runner-up, and the College of Nursing securing Second Runner-up. Each participating band delivered outstanding performances that reflected dedication, creativity, and passion for music.

The key success of Battle of the Bands 2025 lay in the remarkable performances of each department and college, making the event more than just a competition. It became a meaningful celebration of Filipino musical heritage, the Christmas season, and the shared love for OPM—truly living up to its goal of being a light that connects the past and present through music.