Philip Vella and Gerard James Borg will be flying to Rotterdam for the finals of the Dutch equivalent of Malta's Song for Europe Festival.

A song penned by the duo was shortlisted from 500 entries to compete in the finals.

The song, titled 'Heatwave', is being interpreted by the Dutch trio Ebonique who wooed the judges with their powerful voices, and the swinging melody.

'Heatwave' placed first in the Dutch semi-finals over the weekend and received unanimous approval from the jury, scoring a total of 75 points.

The song has now made it to the Dutch finals and will be one of the eight songs competing at the Ahoy in Rotterdam on March 1.

The winner will go on to represent the Netherlands at the Eurovision Song Contest being held in Latvia on May 24.

Malta was mentioned several times during the show as the three ladies from Ebonique could be seen waving a framed picture of the Maltese duo.

This is the first time ever that a Maltese composer and lyricist have had their songs competing in two different finals at the same time.

Another song, 'Superstitious', interpreted by Charlene and Natasha and composed and written by Mr Vella and Mr Borg, this year placed fifth in the finals of the Malta Song for Europe Festival.

"This is a great personal satisfaction. From now on, it is one big adventure, come what may! I feel both Philip and myself have won, because our work is being appreciated not only locally, but also outside our shores," Mr Borg said.