In what has become a seemingly yearly juncture, the De La Salle Santiago Zobel (DLSZ) Rondalla won gold again — not just in one category but three. This feat occurred in the 13th Asia Arts Festival held from July 6 up until July 12, 2026.

DLSZ Rondalla demonstrated poise akin to that of professionals across three (3) distinct categories: Trio, Quartet, and Small Group. In doing so, they won Gold in all three (3) adjudicated performances.

The participants of the festival were as follows:

Trio:

• Jose Justin Cenica (DLSZ 2028)
• Lyon Libunao (Alumni)
• Jacob Rafael Soriano (DLSZ 2027)
  

Quartet:

• Lyon Libunao (Alumni)
• Crispin Emiliani Oliver (DLSZ 2027)
• Rye Angelo Reyes (Alumni)
• Jayden Carson Tormon (DLSZ 2027)

Small Group:

• Joaquin Vincenzo Bilasano (DLSZ 2028)
• Jose Justin Cenica (DLSZ 2028)
• Elyse Glenn Degal (Alumni)
• Kirk Estanislao (DLSZ 2028)
• Crispin Emiliani Oliver (DLSZ 2027)
• Rye Angelo Reyes (Alumni)
• Jacob Rafael Soriano (DLSZ 2027)
• Macallister Joshua Suñga (Alumni)
• Jayden Carson Tormon (DLSZ 2027)
• Leila Anne Marie Vinluan (DLSZ 2028)
• Oh Yugeun (DLSZ 2029)

   

The Rondalla performed at the prestigious Singapore School of the Arts (SOTA), specifically at the SOTA Concert Hall. They played three (3) pieces, fit for each category. The pieces were Lulay arr. by Jerry Dadap, Rondo Op. 127 arr. by Ms. Elaine Espejo-Cajucom, and Divertimento arr. by Nelson Espejo.

The group marched to thunderous applause from both the judges and the audience, and topped three (3) categories. They previously won Gold at the Pacific Basin Music Festival in 2023, the Los Angeles Sounds of Summer Music Festival in 2024, and both the Sydney International Music Festival and the Hong Kong International Music Festival both in 2025.

The group is led by Mr. Philip Dagang, DLSZ Rondalla conductor.

This accomplishment marks another proud milestone for the young Lasallians, whose dedication and excellence continue to bring honor to the school community. 

Congratulations and Animo La Salle!