The Adventist University of the Philippines Academy (AUPA) Chorale earned top honors at the 2025 Borneo International Vocal Arts Festival held in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia held on May 29–June 1, 2025. The chorale brought home an impressive four awards:

Gold Prize & Category Winner: Youth Choir

Gold Prize & Category Winner: Sacred Music

Gold Prize & Category Winner: Folk Music

Special Jury Prize for Artistic Integrity and Choral Excellence

Yet beyond the accolades, the journey itself stood as a powerful testimony of God’s leading, transforming what could have been just a musical competition into a sacred ministry moment.

“Our journey wasn’t just about singing, it was about service,” shared chorale member Zynel Jael. “From the beginning, this trip was a ministry, not a competition. One of the most beautiful experiences we had happened before we even stepped on stage.”

During their preparations, the group regularly sang “Lead Me, Lord,” which gradually transformed from a mere song into a shared prayer and declaration. “We were not there to chase recognition but to follow wherever God was leading us in that moment,” Jael added.

Mr. Kyle Vallejos, AUPA Chorale conductor, testified to how God honored their faith when they stood firm in their beliefs. Initially, their competition categories were scheduled on the Sabbath, but after prayerful dialogue with the organizers, a miraculous change was granted. They were rescheduled to perform on Friday with the full panel of judges present just for them.

“Who else can do that but God!” Vallejos reflected. “We didn’t just perform. We worshipped. We cried because we saw God’s faithfulness.” Indeed, it was a testimony of faith. “From simply kneeling in prayer to standing on an international stage, we’ve seen how God can turn small dreams into powerful stories through challenges, delays, and triumphs,” Vallejos added.

Their ministry continued on Sabbath as the chorale led the worship in one of the churches in Malaysia while all the other choirs were performing at the competition.

International juror and masterclass instructor Dr. David Chin shared his admiration for the group, calling them a “faith-based high school choir from the Philippines” who impressed not only with vocal skill but with “integrity, humility, passion, and spirit.”

“Their bond as a choir is truly admirable. They sang for purpose, not for praise,” Dr. Chin posted on his social media.

“To say I’m proud is an understatement,” Dr. Arceli H. Rosario, AUP president, affirmed the chorale. “You’ve had a real encounter with the Lord, and through your commitment to singing, I know you will have many more.”

The experience aligns deeply with AUP’s philosophy of holistic Christian education, where academic, artistic, and spiritual growth meet. It is also a vivid expression of AUP’s mission to develop Christlike leaders prepared for service in this world and the world to come.

“When God works, He brings you to the places and people you’re meant to reach. And it is always for God’s honor,” Kyna de Castro, a parent-sponsor shared.