DMMMSU North La Union Campus’ Northern Chorus brought home accolades from the recently concluded 8th Vietnam International Choir Competition, held at Hoi An, Vietnam, from April 9 to 13, 2025.
Competing against choirs from around the world, the Northern Chorus received two Gold Diplomas. The Choir was awarded a Gold Diploma in Category G3, Youth Choirs of Mixed Voices (Level III), signifying an “excellent” performance and placing them among the top performers in this category. They also earned a Gold Diploma in Category F, Folklore (Level II), indicating a “high level” performance in this category. In the Mixed Youth Category, they performed Ave Maria Gratia Plena by Josu Elberdin, Sanctus by Gerard Dela Peña, Salidummay by Bienvenido Constantino, Jr., Kalejs Kala Debesis by Selga Mence. In the Folklore Category they performed Salidummay and Ali Na Ug Mangandam arranged by Gerard Dela Peña, Ahibakle and Intako Manragragsak by Bienvenido Constantino, Jr..
The competition, known for being a platform for choral excellence, featured a variety of categories and themes, providing platforms for participants to express their creativity. The Northern Chorus’ outstanding performances were marked by their meticulous preparation and vibrant interpretations of their selected pieces, earning them recognition among the judges and choral experts from different cultural backgrounds.
The participants of the Northern Chorus are the following:
- John Oliver Benigno Abiang (SLUC)
- Junyll Diaz Agbunag
- Ysrael Gamueda Baraquio
- Jhe Azriel Tolosa Bustillo
- Mark Ariel Leonzon Centeno (MLUC)
- Charisse Keesha Bayatin Delfinado (MLUC)
- Aldrex Refuerzo Eslava
- Angela Cabebe Eslava
- Clint Jethro Abulencia Fernandez
- Renzyle Arquitala Gaňola
- Robin Ramirez Gayyed
- Aldryn Bernardino Gonzales
- Janine Athena Rebualos Lomibao (MLUC)
- Vince Eugene Quilondrino Obillo
- Ruby Anne Mas Posugac
- Faith Aira Sanchez Quilates
- Angel Oquin Rayray (MLUC)
- Chrissa Jaide Jimenez Rillera
- Mark Angelo Oficiar Rivera
- Trisha Mae Quiambao Sibayan
- Romar Job Orgiba Suarez
- Samantha Nicolle Gundran Tandas
- Christian Quideng Tuyan
They were accompanied Prof. Danreve Leo Gamboa, trainer and conductor, Prof. Raymund Sanchez, Head for Cultural Unit at NLUC, and Prof. Rodelio D. Indong, Director for Cultural Unit. The group’s awards are a reflection of not only the musical prowess of the Northern Chorus’ members and trainer but also their discipline in their craft. More than a display of talent, the Choir’s performances became a bridge—linking hearts and cultures through the shared language of song. (By Ayu)
