BAGUIO CITY – Through council resolution 107, series of 2016, the city honors the late Arnulfo Badasen Cadangen who provided the lyrics and melody of the Baguio Hymn.
Entitled “Baguio: Haven for all,” the hymn, now sang in all official programs and activities of the local government of Baguio, serves as a legacy for the 1932-born, native of Mankayan, Benguet and Alab, Bontoc, Mt. Province. He settled in Baguio, worked for an academic-based printing press; raised a brood of five, and passed on last May 26.
In an interview, daughter Joy said the elder Cadangen is a music lover; thus the precise cut of the song to win first place in the hymn contest sponsored by S & L center celebrating the Baguio Diamond Jubilee in 1984. The hymn was harmonized by Dr. James Castlen.
The song was formally adopted by the city government of Baguio as the official Baguio Hymn through approved ordinance 052, series of 1993.
The hymn, described by the city council in the resolution as “impressive and invaluable” shall be marked as one of the city’s “heritage and shall remain and forever kept in the hearts and minds of the Baguio people.”
The resolution was read by Councilor Fred Bagbagen and handed over by Mayor Mauricio Domogan to widow Aslene Saldo Cadangen, in simple ceremonies Monday afternoon at the Twin Chapels of Resurrection Cathedral, Magsaysay avenue.
Cadangen, 84, was laid to rest at the Baguio Memorial Park, Tuesday morning.
By Julie G. Fianza