Laoag City’s Children’s Choir defended its title in the children’s division of the Manila Broadcasting Co.’s (MBC) choral championships, while the Capitol University Glee Club of Cagayan de Oro became the first ever choir from Mindanao to win the open category plum in the MBC National Choral Competitions.

The Laoag choir, conducted by Egdonna Legaspi, triumphed over Batasan-Commonwealth Singing Voices, with Himig Bulilit of Saint Paul College Parañaque and Banga Central Elementary School of South Cotabato placing third and fourth, respectively.

Capitol, conducted by Ritchie Asibal, showed a definite mastery of vocal technique as they routed an evened playing field that also included finalists from northern Luzon, western Visayas and mega-Manila.

The University of Baguio Voices Chorale placed second in the open category, with Kammershor Manila placing third and Kinaadman Chorale of Iloilo, placing fourth.

Coro de Manila was named Best Show Choir, while Normita Rio-Pablico won the award for Best Original Novelty Arrangement for “Piliin Mo ang Pilipinas,” which was performed by Regina Coeli.

Presented by the MBC and Star City, the national choral competition is held every year.