INCHEON, SOUTH KOREA — The Eastern Chamber Singers (ECS) has brought immense honor to the Philippines, clinching the top title at the 5th Asia Choral Grand Prix (ACGP) held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Incheon National University’s Songdo Campus.
Champion of Champions:
The ACGP is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious choral events in the region, featuring only the grand prize winners from five major Asian choral festivals. ECS secured their slot in this elite “championship of champions” after winning the Andrea O. Veneracion International Choral Festival in Manila in August 2025.
- The Competition: The Quezon City-based ensemble outperformed four other powerhouse groups, including three top-tier Indonesian choirs and a local South Korean ensemble.
- Back-to-Back for PH: This victory marks a significant “repeat” for the Philippines, following the 2025 championship won by the Adventist University of the Philippines’ Sola Gratia Chorale in Singapore.
A Milestone Tour:
Led by artistic director and conductor Anna Tabita Abeleda-Piquero, the 34-member choir engaged in a high-profile tour of South Korea before the competition.
- Historic Performance: On February 21, the ECS became the first Filipino choir to perform at the newly built Busan Concert Hall, serving as a special guest ensemble for the Coro House 100-Member Male Choir’s 12th Regular Concert.
- Cultural Recognition: Following their win, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the Philippine Embassy in Seoul extended their warmest congratulations, hailing the group as ambassadors of Filipino cultural heritage and choral excellence.