UNEP Performing Arts Wows SM Shoppers

Highly acclaimed singers, dancers, band players and majorettes of the Performing Arts Group of the University of Northeastern Philippines wowed and captivated the shoppers at SM City Naga with its breathtaking performances during the mall's 2009 Independence Day celebrations.

UNEP Performing Arts' splendid opening salvo was a fancy drill exhibition at the mall's spacious parking space. Right after the performance, multi awarded and internationally-celebrated UNEP Chorale formally started the June 12 activities by singing the Philippine National Anthem during the flag raising ceremonies attended by SM Naga officials and representatives from various sectors in the city.

After the opening program, the UNEP Chorale serenaded holiday shoppers right at SM's event center.  In the afternoon, members of the UNEP Performing Arts Group went back on stage to render a one-hour and a half non-stop entertainment.  It was an afternoon filled with songs and dances and was greatly applauded by spectators.

It was the second time that the UNEP Chorale and members of the UNEP Performing Arts were invited to perform at SM City Naga. The first was during its grand opening last May this year and the second time was during the malls' celebration of Independence Day.

Atty. Remelisa Alfelor-Moraleda, UNEP President took pride in those invitations citing the trust and confidence that the SM Management had given to them.

"The invitation was a clear manifestation of how SM City Naga looks at our artists. It was a show of appreciation for the UNEP Performing Arts and for the UNEP Chorale for what they have earned as world-class performers," Moraleda said.

A few months back, the UNEP Chorale was cited  by the National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA) as "Ani ng Sining" awardee during the 2009 Philippine International Arts Festival.  It also brought honor to the country when it won the Gold Medal for the Folklore category and Silver Medal in Mixed Youth category during the 2008 Hong Kong International Youth and Children Festival competition on July 14-18, 2008. In 2006, the choral group won the highest Silver Diploma award during the 4^th World Choir Games in Xiamen, China.

The UNEP Performing Arts was also adjudged grandslam winner during the Tinagba Festival and is also a recipient of various awards in local competitions.

The University of Northeastern Philippines' quest for excellence will continue in every endeavor that it undertakes. It will remain steadfast in its goal to optimize the artistic potentials of its students, making them globally competitive and eventually global achievers.