By: Isabelle Serene Pongos (DLSZ 2026)
Three (3) years ago, seated in the audience of the CPA theatre, I shared a promise with my close friend. As we watched the performances on stage, the sound of music filling our ears, we made a promise to each other—that the following year, we would perform on that very same stage that sparked everything.
Months later, around the time of picking and choosing clubs, I found myself on the second floor of the Center for Performing Arts building. Not knowing what to expect or what the future holds, I opened the door and entered the club room of the performing group MusiKawayan.
These past few years have been paramount to my continuous growth and ever-flourishing aspirations.. I remember the first time I performed on stage—how fear and nervousness chewed at me—but I also got to experience the relief and joy that came after. By being in MusiKawayan I was able to face my fears, meet new people, and fulfil the same promise I made to my friend years back.
From performing in concerts and having the privilege of sharing our music in Penang, Malaysia, I am beyond grateful for these experiences that could only have blossomed from the time I spent with this wonderful group.
As my final year approaches, I am most eager for our upcoming 2026 Concert. Following the success of this year’s Melodic Crossroads, I plan to bring much more recognition not only to our songs but to the individual talents of our members too. In my last year as a MusiKawayan member, I aim to give my all in future performances and continually act as an active and diligent member throughout the rest of this year.
As time continues marching by and the days continue to pass, we must come to realize that change and growth are an unavoidable part of life itself. Through time, I have come to accept that while we may be unsure of what the future holds for us, we have to keep on moving forward nonetheless. The message I would like to pass on to my younger self and my fellow club members is to keep on trying and continuing onward. As long as you continue to have the courage to step forward into tomorrow, everything soon will line up, and the future will be yours to grab.
On that note, I would also like to use this opportunity to not only thank my moderator, Ms. Ruby Cosico, but also to acknowledge her efforts in making these three(3) years an unforgettable experience for me and my MusiKawayan-mates. It was through her leadership and guidance that we were able to succeed as a group and cultivate individuals.
I wish you all the best in the future!
Cras es noster.
“The future will be ours.”