ASMPH VOX soars at MedRhythmia 2025

The Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health's vocal ensemble, VOX, recently showcased their musical prowess at MedRhythmia 2025, the annual competition organized by the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges (APMC). This year’s event, themed Liyab, was hosted by Far Eastern University-Dr. Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation and brought together medical students in a fiery showcase of talent and camaraderie.

What makes this performance particularly special is the story behind VOX. It was only during this school year 2024-2025, that the current VOX officers—Erika Rafael, Anne Chan, Gabi Esteban, Alex Mendoza, Mervin Artillaga, Raphael Ronase, Allison Yu, and Penny Geolin—revived the org after its hiatus during the pandemic. The weight of VOX's history is both inspiring and challenging. "VOX was a known org long before our time so it sort of comes with a lot of pressure for us to do well." shared Anne Chan, the organization's President. 

Under the artistic direction of conductor Karl San Jose, VOX presented a compelling medley that wove together three contemporary Filipino pop songs: Sa Panaginip na Lang by ALAMAT, Araw-Araw by Ben&Ben, and Hanggang sa Huli by SB19. The arrangement mirrored VOX’s own journey—a story of dreams, daily persistence, and unwavering commitment.

The journey to victory wasn’t without obstacles. A last-minute competition announcement left the team with only two weeks to prepare. With academic commitments like MBA classes occupying Monday and Thursday evenings, the team managed to squeeze in rehearsals from 6-9 PM over just five days. Their dedication was evident in their approach—between rehearsal sessions, team members studied recorded guides from their conductor and even performed for administrative staff to refine their skills. To make matters more challenging, their conductor was unavailable on the day of the performance. Thankfully, VOX member, Iggy Bunag, rose to the occasion and took on the role of conductor—while also performing.

The enthusiastic response from administration, faculty, and alumni to VOX’s return demonstrates how deeply embedded the org is in ASMPH’s cultural fabric. In the demanding world of medical education, VOX serves as a reminder that healing comes in many forms. Their journey from revival to triumph shows that sometimes, the most powerful medicine is the one that brings a community together through the universal language of music.

As these future doctors raise their voices in song, they’re not just performing—they’re carrying forward a legacy, creating new memories for themselves and for ASMPH, proving that with passion and perseverance, silence can transform into a beautiful symphony.

VOX MedRhythmia Team 2025:

• Conductor: Karl San Jose
• Singers:
  • Alex Mendoza - YL7
  • Gabi Esteban - YL7
  • Sidney Paderes - YL7
  • Justine Sta. Cruz - YL7
  • Cathy Bantayan - YL7
  • Penny Geolin - YL7
  • Anne Chan - YL7
  • Jio Abad Santos - YL7
  • Adel Tantay - YL7
  • Iggy Bunag - YL7
  • CJ Santiago - YL7
• Lights and Sounds:
  • Biboy Alvarez - YL7
  • Vince Escalante - YL7
  • Lance Bennett - YL7

Watch their performance here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1F9S11j9ni/