By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
Seven Filipino choirs were given recognition for bringing pride to the Philippines through their achievements in various international competitions during the “Gintong Parangal” held last November 24 in Malacañang.
The recognition was bestowed on the honorees by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos. Meanwhile, each choir was also given a plaque of appreciation and cash incentive worth PhP200,000.
Feted were the University of the Philippines Manila Chorale, Quezon City Performing Arts Development Foundation, Inc. Concert Chorus, Sola Gratia Chorale, University of Mindanao Chorale, Los Cantantes de Manila, Imusicapella and the University of Santo Tomas Singers.
President Marcos noted during his speech the importance of recognizing Filipino talents who made exemplary achievements around the world so that they will be known by the people and be inspired by them.
“This is a world-class international level. And Filipinos do not know about it and they should, because every other Pinoy that will hear about this will be proud, once again,” President Marcos said.
“You have shown once again that very important part of the Filipino, which is music. And it is not any music that we are now promoting, it’s Filipino music. Of course, we are influenced by all of those who have come,” he added, simultaneously recognizing them for promoting Filipino music.
“Not only because you have achieved such greatness in the international arena but because you have — in doing so, you have shown once again that very important part of the Filipino culture, which is music,” he said.
-avds