The Cebu Normal University (CNU) Chorale has presented their awards to its president, Dr. Daniel Ariaso, Sr., in today’s courtesy visit.

 

CNU Chorale recently represented the Philippines in the highly regarded Busan Choral Festival and Competition in South Korea, performing alongside world-class choirs. They won third place in Ethnic Category and two gold diplomas in the Pop and Acapella Category and Ethnic/Traditional Music Category, earning 2 million won.

 

Senior chorale member Roy Khalil Granada said competing on the international stage was both an honor and a learning experience.

“The Busan Choral Festival is a very prestigious competition with world-class choirs,” Granada said.

 

“It’s different from local contests because you meet singers from other cultures. There’s no prejudice—just mutual respect and appreciation for music,” he added.

 

Granada noted that the group competed in the Ethnic and Pop categories, which drew around 55 choirs from various countries. While the team did not reach the Grand Prix round, he said they were proud of their performance.

 

“We poured our hearts into every note. We believe we were deserving, but others were too. It was a beautiful exchange of talent and culture,” he said.

 

CNU Chorale won the award under the exceptional direction of Prof. Darlane Yap, who said it was a “hard-earned” success.

Despite the challenges of competing against world-class chorales, the ensemble’s perseverance and musical excellence shone through, earning them well-deserved recognition on the global stage.

“It was difficult but it paid off. This victory is the result of dedication, teamwork, and love for music,” Prof. Yap shared, expressing pride in her chorale’s outstanding performance.

CNU President Dr. Daniel Ariaso Sr. lauded the chorale for their dedication and achievements.

 

“Success is a journey—you have to work hard, nurture your craft, and keep the dream alive,” he told the group.

 

“Despite the earthquake and typhoon, you give us the life of hope. Thank you for keeping the hope, dream and brand of CNU,” he added.

 

He also revealed that the university allocated ₱750,000 to support the team’s participation, covering essential travel expenses.

Dr. Ariaso encouraged the chorale to sustain their momentum by organizing a foundation to raise and manage their own funds for future competitions.

 

“You symbolize the excellence and passion that CNU stands for,” he said, adding “keep bringing pride to the university and the country.”