Young Musicians Take the Stage in Bohol
BOHOL - The Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark hosted the NAMCYA Padayaw 2026 Regional Semifinals on September 5, 2026, bringing together young musical talents from across the Visayas at the Bohol Cultural Center. The competition featured performances in the Children’s Rondalla, Junior Solo Rondalla, Youth Choir (Mixed Voice), and Youth Choir (Equal Voices) categories. The event provided young performers with an important platform to demonstrate their musical abilities while celebrating the diverse cultural traditions of the Visayas. Through the competition, participants were able to gain valuable performance experience while representing their schools, communities, and regions.
Visayan Performers Advance to the National Finals
The regional semifinals also identified talented performers who will advance to the NAMCYA National Finals on November 17 at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila. Qualifiers include the Loboc Children’s Rondalla of Bohol in the Children’s Rondalla category, HUNI MANDAWE in Youth Choir (Equal Voices), and the Himamaylan National High School SPA-Hulma Performing Arts Company Youth Choral in Youth Choir (Mixed Voice). Five Junior Solo Rondalla performers from Regions VII and the Negros Island Region also secured spots in the national competition. Their advancement highlights the strong musical potential of young artists in the Visayas and gives them an opportunity to bring their talents to a national stage.
Strengthening Culture and Youth Development Through Music
The regional semifinals were organized by the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Okada Manila, the Provincial Government of Bohol through the Center for Culture and Arts Development–Bohol, and the Tagbilaran City Government. Hosting the event reflects Bohol’s continuing commitment to supporting cultural education, artistic development, and opportunities for young people. The initiative also supports the province’s Strategic Governance Roadmap 2028, while strengthening the role of the UNESCO Global Geopark as a venue for cultural exchange and artistic expression. By welcoming young musicians and cultural practitioners, Bohol continues to create spaces where heritage can be celebrated, talents can develop, and the next generation can contribute to the continuing growth of Philippine music and culture.
