Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office
PUP Bagong Himig Sereneta (BHS), the resident choral group of the Sintang Paaralan, once again showcased the University’s artistic excellence when it claimed the Grand Prix Award at the 1st Yogyakarta International Choral Festival at the Yogyakarta, Indonesia on February 7 to 14, 2026.
On its way to winning the grand prize, BHS swept all categories, earning gold at the Pop and Jazz, Folk Song, and the Mixed Choir categories, serenading audiences with its musical talent and creative flair.
This marks not only the first Grand Prix for the group but also the first time a Philippine choir has won the top honor—a significant milestone for the University and the country, setting a new standard for future international competitions. In a Facebook post, BHS reflected on the preparations and challenges encountered to reach this stage of the competition, expressing pride in finally reaching the mountaintop.
“The road to this victory was far from easy. We prepared for months, faced overlapping competitions, and managed other productions along the way. Yet today, we can proudly say that every sacrifice was worth it, and our hard work has been paid off,” the choral ensemble said.
They also thanked the PUP Community and everyone who stood by them in their journey, noting “your support in every way has made this achievement possible.”
“This opportunity allowed us to prove ourselves as artists and as Filipinos. It is a victory not only for us, but for all who believe in us and for our Sintang Paaralan. We promise to continue serving through art—for the people, for the nation,” they added. University Center for Culture and the Arts (UCCA) Director Bely R. Ygot expressed his pride for the accomplishment, stating that the PUP Bagong Himig Serenata are a source of pride not only for the University, but for the entire nation.
“For over 50 years, the PUP Bagong Himig Serenata (BHS) has been more than just a choir—it has been a home for generations of student-singers. This month, that legacy reached a beautiful new crescendo.” He spoke.
“With the full heart and support of our University, BHS traveled to Indonesia for the Yogyakarta International Choral Festival 2026 and achieved something truly historic: a grand sweep victory. This is the first time our BHS family has reached such a milestone on the international stage. This win belongs to all of us; it is a testament to the discipline, heart, and enduring spirit of our students who continue to carry the pride of PUP and the Philippines to the rest of the world.”
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