Members

The people who have sung with UST Chorus of Arts and Letters, from its founders to this year’s choir.

• Founding Conductor

  Paulo Zarate

  Paulo Zarate served as the Founding Conductor from the very beginning, guiding the newly formed choir as it prepared for Himig Tomasino ’95. Under his baton, The Chorus of Arts and Letters was officially born on September 30, 1995.

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  • Conductor 1995–2000
• 

  Founding President

  Ronald Salvame

  Ronald G. Salvame is a California-licensed real estate professional, student housing operator, and property management specialist serving university communities in Los Angeles, including USC, UCLA, and surrounding residential markets. With nearly two decades of experience, he focuses on residential and student housing operations, real estate advisory, and helping property owners protect and grow their investments—while building communities through service, leadership, and collaboration. As the Founding President of The Chorus of Arts and Letters, Ronald carries the same spirit that helped shape ABC from its beginnings: bringing people together, creating opportunities, and building something meaningful through shared purpose and teamwork. What began with a group of students united by music has grown into a lasting community of alumni connected by friendship, service, and a shared history. For Ronald, ABC remains more than an organization—it is a reminder that meaningful things are built when people believe in one another, step forward when needed, and leave something valuable for those who come after them. Today, he continues to carry that founding spirit into his professional work, community involvement, and commitment to the ABC family.

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  • Tenor
  • Sang 1995–1996
  ✕Ronald Salvame
• Founding Officer

  Ma. Edalyn De Francia

  One of the founding officers who, with Ronald Salvame, spearheaded the preparation and processing of the organization's bylaws and other requirements necessary for official recognition. Served as Vice President, 1995–1996.

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  • Alto
  • Sang 1995–1996
• Founding Officer

  Yasmin Matubis

  One of the founding officers who, with Ronald Salvame, spearheaded the preparation and processing of the organization's bylaws and other requirements necessary for official recognition.

  • Soprano
  • Sang 1995
• 

  President, 1996–1998

  Zyril Ongkiko Ng

  Zyril Ongkiko Ng is a business builder, international school cafeteria operator, and longevity specialist working with medical nutritionists worldwide. From more than a decade of partnership with the world's number one beauty and wellness device system brand, she focuses to promote fitness, health, immunity, nutrition, opportunity, personal/skin care, vitality and youth in the genetic level - while facilitating leadership training through international mentorship qualifications. As the first youngest President of the Chorus of Arts and Letters, Zyril maintains the same flame that uplifted ABC: developing its first champion team in 1997. For Zyril, ABC has been the foundation of greatness - the legacy after setting high standards for the future generations to pursue. Presently, she goes on promoting "how you do one thing is how you do everything" intention on her ventures and example to the growing ABC family for the glory of God.

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  • Soprano
  • Sang 1995–1998
  ✕Zyril Ongkiko Ng
• 

  Founding Officer

  Jonnie Baraquio

  A founding officer of the organization, Jonnie Palisoc Baraquio was instrumental in laying its groundwork and steering it toward official recognition. As a Legal Administrator and member of the academe, he brings professionalism, dedication, and a strong sense of responsibility to every endeavor he undertakes. Outside of his professional and academic roles, music remains one of Jonnie’s greatest passions. He enjoys singing, performing, and engaging in activities that strengthen the bonds within the organization. He believes that music serves as a bridge that connects people, nurtures lasting friendships, and creates memorable shared experiences. What he values most is the enduring camaraderie and community he has found among individuals who share the same enthusiasm and appreciation for music.

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  • Tenor
  • Sang 1995–1996
  ✕Jonnie Baraquio
• Founding Member

  Alan Levi Farinas

  • Tenor
  • Sang 1997–1998
• Founding Member

  Avegaile Managuit

  Served as Vice President, 1997–1998.

  • Soprano
  • Sang 1996–1998
• Founding Member

  Rhoda May Mejia

  • Alto
  • Sang 1995–1998
• Founding Member

  Erica Sarmiento

  • Alto
  • Sang 1995–1996