After graduating from the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in music education, I worked as a music teacher at AUP Academy for several years. I had no intentions of coming to the United States, but then I saw a video of Winner Silvestre, an Andrews University graduate student at the time and a fellow Filipino, conducting a graduate recital. I decided pursuing a graduate degree at Andrews might be for me.
I prayed about it, and God opened doors for me to apply. I submitted all the necessary paperwork and other required audition materials to the Department of Music, and after some time I received word directly from one of the music professors that they would like to have me at Andrews. I had been officially accepted.
Although I was initially excited to join the program, I had no idea how I would cover the program costs—and I needed to send Andrews the money quickly so that they could give me my I-20 form for my U.S. visa interview. I felt God was telling me to be bold in pursuit of my degree, so I even talked to the president of AUP about my plan.
God continued to open doors and work on my behalf. Andrews soon emailed to inform me that I qualified for an additional scholarship, which eliminated any discrepancies in paying the tuition due at the time. I was able to attend Andrews.
Throughout my stay as a student at Andrews, I repeatedly received funds from anonymous donors, friends and AUP. In May 2024, I completed my master’s degree in conducting.
Outside of Andrews, I was blessed to found the Sola Gratia Chorale, a ministry-driven vocal ensemble with the mission of sharing the gospel through excellent, spirit-filled choral music. Over time, what began as a small gathering grew into a recognized ensemble dedicated to proclaiming sola gratia, “by grace alone,” through every performance.
By God’s grace, the Sola Gratia Chorale has been blessed with significant achievements on the international stage. These accomplishments include being a Grand Prix Winner at the eighth Singapore International Choral Festival and Champion of the fourth Asian Choral Grand Prix.
Currently, I work as a choir director and music educator at Spring Valley Academy in Ohio, where my responsibilities include conducting ensembles, preparing students for performances, choosing repertoire and helping singers grow technically, musically and spiritually.
I have truly seen God open doors for me in this role. Many opportunities came through unexpected connections, moments of favor and people who believed in my calling even before I fully saw it myself. Being far from home has been challenging at times, but it has also pushed me to rely on God more deeply. Through every transition, He has provided clarity, strength and opportunities that have aligned perfectly with the gifts He has entrusted to me.