By Sam Ramos
Coro Zamboanga claimed the top spot in the Concurso Coral de Navidad (Christmas Chorale Competition), besting 12 other contenders during the final round held on Sunday, December 15, at the City Hall grounds.
The group won the grand prize of PHP50,000, with the awarding ceremony led by Mayor John Dalipe, City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian, and Maria Gigi Cabato of Amistad Production.
Other winners included the WMSU Grand Chorale in second place (PHP45,000), ZPPSU Cantamos Chorale in third place (PHP40,000), Vox Cantus in fourth place (PHP35,000), and Voz de la Joventud in fifth place (PHP30,000). Contestants who did not place received a consolation prize of PHP20,000 each.
The competition, held from December 2 to 15, featured performances from other groups, including Angelus Choir, Ayala National High School Choir, Los Huestas, San Sebastian Choral, St. Padre Pio Choir, Zamboanga Concert Chorus, Water District Choir, and Los Cantantes Choral.
The Christmas Chorale competition was part of the Festival de Navidad 2024, an annual celebration organized by the city government through the City Tourism Office to bring festive cheer and showcase local musical talent.