The Senate adopted on Monday a resolution commending and congratulating the De La Salle Santiago Zobel Strings Ensemble for their twin awards at music festivals held in Europe in July.

Senator Risa Hontiveros filed Senate Resolution 758, which congratulates and celebrates the 34 young musicians who represented the Philippines on the international stage.

"The Philippine Senate, on several occasions, has been paying tribute to outstanding Filipinos for their commendable performances that bring pride and joy to the country, especially in the field of music," the resolution read.

"The DLSZ Strings' participation in these international events not only highlights the hard work and dedication of the students but also demonstrates Filipinos' world-class talent and musical excellence," it added.

In her sponsorship speech, Hontiveros stressed the group deserved to be recognized for their countless hours of training, talent and amazing dedication to their craft.

"I can't help but be proud of what the De La Salle strings ensemble has accomplished for their school and for our country. Again, I am extremely honored to sponsor our Senate resolution, which celebrates these young musicians who brought pride and honor to our beloved Philippines," said Hontiveros.

The DLSZ bagged 4th place with an outstanding rating at the 15th Summa Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival at the Golden Hall of the Musikvere in held in Vienna, Austria, on 1 July.

The group also won the Gold Award at the 2023 Bratislava Youth Music Festival Competition at the Slovak Radio Concert Hall in Slovakia on 7 July.

The International Youth Music Festival is a world-renowned celebration of young musicians from across the globe. Among the participants were choirs, bands and orchestras from Australia, Austria, Canada, China, Italy, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Taipei, Norway, Netherlands, Spain and the USA.

The DLSZ is composed of high school students enrolled in the special music program to develop their musical skills. The group is headed by Strings Conductor Leopoldo Sumera Jr., accompanied by Strings teacher Shelly Isaga, Music Unit head Daryl Galicia and Cultural Affairs Office head Lynette Feliciano.