The choir competition dubbed, “Rhythm and Harmony of Nature,” for secondary schools will push through on June 6 at the Baguio Cultural and Convention Center.
The contest, which is part of the 3rd Saleng Festival, was postponed on May 31 due to the effects of Typhoon Betty.
Eight secondary schools are set to compete – Baguio City National High School, Berkeley School, Easter College, Philippine Science High School-Cordillera Campus, Pines City National High School and Rizal National High School, all in Baguio and Immaculate Conception School of Bokod and Madaymen National High School, Kibungan, in Benguet.
The winners will receive P50,000; second place winners, P30,000; and third place winners, P20,000. Consolation will be given to the participating choral groups.
The contest is in two categories: an original environment-themed composition which may be in English, Filipino, or any Cordillera language, or a combination of all; and Chaz Katalbas “Kalikasan” song.
The winning original composition will be designated as the official theme for the succeeding Saleng festivals, according to City Environment and Parks Management Office Head, Atty. Rhenan Diwas.
Live accompaniment, which may be an indigenous instrument, is allowed.
The judges for the competition are virtuoso John Glenn Gaerlan, Jomard Calamba, and Normita Pablico.
The Saleng (Pine tree) Festival was institutionalized in January 2022, which is aimed at public and private partnership for environmental preservation and protection.
The other activities include regreening and seedling distribution, regional environmental beauty contest, green exposition, adventure activities, tree cart parade, recognition and exhibits, international day for diversity, World Environment Day, free emission testing, battle of the bands, green runway, and cycling. – Julie G. Fianza
