Two young artists from the Benguet, brought home multiple medals from the 2023 World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) held in Anaheim, California.
Jason Ivan Timbal Sobremonte of Tuba, Benguet, won the gold medal in the Contortion Flexibility and Contortion Advanced Division. He also won a silver medal in Contortion Advance and a bronze medal in Contortion Open.
Xyza Nicole Aguilar of La Trinidad, Benguet, won two gold medals in the Formal and Casual Wear Category, a silver medal in the Swimwear Category, and two plaques in the Modeling Division Championship.
In addition to Jason and Xyza, four other Cordilleran artists also won medals at the WCOPA:
- Sesy Lou Bucalen-Salazar of Kalinga, who won the gold medal in the Classical Vocal Solo Category
- Gina Emuang of Baguio City, who won the silver medal in the Classical Ballet Solo Category
- Angelica Pen Licuadan of Baguio City, who won the bronze medal in the Contemporary Dance Solo Category
- Carlos Puno of Baguio City, won two gold medals in the rock and instrumental original categories and another gold medal in the rock category. He also won two silver medals in the country category and one bronze as a semi-finalist in the original category.
The success of the Cordilleran artists at the WCOPA is a testament to their hard work and dedication. They are an inspiration to many young people in the region and show that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.
The two artists are excited to share their experiences with their friends and family and to inspire others to pursue their dreams in the performing arts. They are also grateful for the support of their teachers, coaches, and families.
The WCOPA is an annual international competition that showcases the talents of young artists in various performing arts categories, including vocal, dance, instrumental, and theater. The competition is judged by a panel of industry professionals from Hollywood.
The Philippines was crowned the Grand Champion of the competition, which drew over 70 countries. The Cordilleran artists are among the 362 Filipino delegates who won medals at the WCOPA.
The success of the Cordilleran artists is a proud moment for the region and the country. They have brought honor to the Philippines and inspired many young people to pursue their dreams in the performing arts.
