The Sola Gratia Chorale (SGC), representing the Philippines, was declared champion of the 4th Asia Choral Grand Prix held at Victoria Concert Hall, Singapore, on July 24, 2025. Conducted by Cyril Punay, the choir shared the stage with outstanding finalists from South Korea, Indonesia, and the Philippines, inspiring audiences and judges with their heartfelt performance and artistry that reflected God’s grace. 

SGC earned its place in the Asia Choral Grand Prix after emerging as the winner of the Singapore International Choral Festival 2024. SGC had the privilege of sharing the stage with four outstanding finalists: the University of Mindanao Chorale (Philippines), Cheorwon Boys and Girls Choir (Republic of Korea), PSM Vocalista Harmonic ISI Yogyakarta (Indonesia), and Korea Choir (Republic of Korea). 

The Asia Choral Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious choral competitions in Asia, featuring choirs that excel in vocal artistry and performance. This victory marks a milestone for Sola Gratia Chorale, which continues to dedicate its music to God’s glory and grace alone.

For the members of Sola Gratia Chorale, this achievement is rooted in their mission to serve God. “This recent win isn’t just a triumph of skill or musical precision; it is the fruit of hearts united in purpose and grounded for ministry—to sing for God. Every song, every phrase, we still sing with our hearts, with our eyes fixed on Jesus,” Martina Valencia, one of the members of SGC and an AUP College of Medicine student, reflected on the deeper meaning of the win. “The calling is the same: to bless, to serve, and to reach others through music. And we continue—not by our own strength, but by grace alone.”

Ruffelle Mae Ayore, another SGC member and an alumna of the AUP, emphasized that the choir’s name is a constant reminder of its foundation. “God’s plan for Sola Gratia Chorale is far greater than we can imagine. Everything we are and everything we do is only by His grace. We lift up the name of Jesus, knowing that apart from His mercy, we would not have come this far,” Ayore shared in her recent Facebook post.

This year’s Grand Prix also featured another Philippine finalist, the University of Mindanao Chorale, alongside Sola Gratia Chorale. The two choirs made a strong impression, representing the country with both musical excellence and heartfelt performances.

Joey Gianan Vargas, a respected figure in the Philippine choral community, shared his pride, “I felt so proud and moved seeing these two great Philippine choirs perform. They have set the bar high, not only in musical excellence but also in giving their hearts and souls through music.”

Irvinne Redor, performing arts manager at Sanghimig Performing Arts, likewise commended the group for its recent win in the 4^th Asia Choral Grand Prix.

The victory at the 4th Asia Choral Grand Prix is not merely a title for Sola Gratia Chorale but a testament to its calling to sing for God.

“Dear God, all the praises and glory is Yours. Your grace amazes us again,” John Almer Caagbay, the one of the assistant conductor of the choir expressed. “Continue to use us to bless others and share Your grace with them.”

The Adventist community celebrates this achievement as a witness of how God’s grace alone can transform talent into ministry, touching hearts and lives through the power of music.