Eduardo “Eddiegul” R. Gullas Sr.: Father of Cebu Pop Music Festival

Cebuanos will remember Eduardo “Eddiegul” R. Gullas Sr. for his political career as a mayor, governor, and congressman -- best known for turning Talisay from a municipality into a city in 2001.

- By JANUAR JUNIOR AGUJA

But he also wanted to be remembered as the father of the Cebu Popular Music Festival, an annual song contest he founded in 1981 that highlights the best of Cebuano songwriting and the performances that elevate each entry's message.

As Cebu Pop is about to reach its 44th edition this coming January during the Sinulog season, organizer Gloria Villarojo is saddened that its founder won't be around to hear the songs of the 2026 edition.

"It's always a must that each year has the classic love songs category," she told The FREEMAN Friday, a day after the announcement of his passing on November 6 at the age of 95 due to septic shock, pneumonia, and acute respiratory failure.

Villarojo added, "He hasn't listened to the entries yet because the songs are still being recorded and the deadline is on November 30. This coming harana category is supposed to be a tribute to him."

Having attended Cebu Pop since its inception, it wasn't just an annual contest for Villarojo that she enjoyed watching. She met her husband, Gani, when he was both a spectator and a participant as an interpreter.