Fresh from their electrifying championship win at the 2026 National Culture and the Arts Festival (NCAF) Live Band Competition in Iloilo, Pangasinan State University’s “First Kicks” band brought the energy of the national stage straight to the Office of the University President—this time, not for competition, but for reflection and recognition.
In a moment that felt less like a formal courtesy call and more like a celebration of shared triumph, the national champion band, together with their coach Prof. Mildred S. Ferrer, met with PSU and PASUC-1 President Dr. Elbert M. Galas to recount the journey behind their historic win—the first-ever national live band championship for Pangasinan State University, earned after clinching the regional title that secured their spot to represent PASUC Region I on the national stage.
Dr. Galas praised the group not only for their musical excellence but also for embodying the spirit of perseverance and pride that defines the University.
“This win really shows what PSU students can do when talent, hard work, and passion come together,” said Dr. Galas after personally congratulating the group.
The meeting became an opportunity to relive the intensity of the competition—from their grueling travel to Iloilo to the high-stakes performance that ultimately set them apart from the country’s top collegiate bands. Each member—Earl Raphael Siapno, Angelo Miguel Soriano, Rachine Reyes, Shunday Ferrer, Jaedan Isaac Calimquim, and Emmanuelle Narciso—shared glimpses of the discipline, chemistry, and passion that fueled their performance.
Dr. Renato Salcedo, Vice President for Local and International Affairs, and Dr. Jeanilyn Villanueva, Vice President for Administration and Finance Management, joined the group in its festive sharing of winning experience with the university president.
As the echoes of their winning performance continue to ripple across the University, “First Kicks” defines what passion, preparation, and purpose can achieve—on stage and beyond.
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