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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Schools and Universities devider Kings Choir of SSISM wins historic overall champion title at YAPAF 2025

Kings Choir of SSISM wins historic overall champion title at YAPAF 2025

Published Mar 23, 2026 10:13 am
Kings Choir
Kings Choir
In a historic first for the Philippines, the Kings Choir of Stonyhurst Southville International School – Malarayat Campus claimed the Overall Champion (Greatest Performer) Award at the Young Ambassadors Performing Arts Festival (YAPAF) 2025, held last Dec. 7–8, 2025, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Competing internationally for the very first time, the choir also secured goldin both the Classical and Musical Theater categories, impressing a panel of adjudicators from across Asian countries and audiences from the region. The festival featured 104 entries from Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines, making the choir’s sweeping victory a remarkable feat for a group established just over a year ago.
The Kings Choir is composed of students, teachers, and staff, exemplifying unity and collaboration across the school community. Individual excellence was also recognized, with Jose Nicholas S. Pavia, Grade 12 student, earning the Silver Award, and Prince Aaron Emanuel E. Orquita, Grade 9 student, taking home the Gold Award, highlighting the exceptional talent within the group.
Guided by Jayron Rezaba, supported by the tireless efforts of choir coordinator Viola Villena, and backed by the unwavering support of parents, teachers, and the entire SSISM community, this victory is truly a triumph shared by all.
“This historic achievement is a testament to the dedication, discipline, and talent of our students, teachers, and staff,” said Donnabelle Atienza, school principal. “The Kings Choir has not only represented our school with excellence but has also brought pride to the Philippines on an international stage.”
The Kings Choir’s victory marks a milestone in Philippine performing arts, proving that Filipino youth and educators can compete—and win—against the best in Asia, earning recognition and admiration from international adjudicators.

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