KORO, A National Choir Competition to Champion OPM

A press conference for the KORO held at the Centro de Tourismo museum in Intramuros on 21 July 2025. Photo: George Buid.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is launching KORO. It is the first national choir competition. This event aims to uplift Original Pilipino Music (OPM).

The competition finals will be held at the Metropolitan Theater on August 2.

NCCA partners with the Philippine Society for Music Education (PSME). They also work with the Sub-Commission on the Arts – National Committee on Music (NCM).

KORO seeks to elevate OPM. It uses the power of vocal ensembles to do so.

The Los Cantantes de Manila Choir performed in front of the audience as a glimpse of the competition. Photo: George Buid.

This year’s competition highlights OPM. It showcases the harmony of music. It also celebrates the Filipino love for singing.

KORO promotes choral music. It encourages participation from all ages and sectors.

The competition has two categories: Children’s Choir and Adult Choir. KORO aims to promote local choir groups. These groups come from four geographic clusters. They are Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and the National Capital Region (NCR).

Complementing KORO is the workshop series “Musika Mula Pagkabata.” It is a three-day program by PSME. It focuses on Philippine music pedagogy. The workshop runs from July 24 to 26.

The workshop explores established and indigenous music teaching methods. It also integrates music across wellness, visual arts, and theater.

Filipino music continues to evolve and inspire. NCCA’s Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino remains a vital platform. It celebrates the country’s vibrant musical heritage. It brings together creators, performers, and audiences. They unite in a chorus of national pride.

The KORO’s official poster. Photo: NCCA.

KORO promises to be a significant event. It will promote OPM and choral music. It encourages participation. It also celebrates Filipino musical heritage. The competition supports the growth and appreciation of Filipino music.

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