Okada Manila, Philippines-The Golden Ballroom of Okada Manila glistened with national pride and creative energy on July 11, 2025, as the Feel it Pilipinas Blue Jacket Ceremony 2025 brought together the country’s brightest stars in the performing arts.
The prestigious event honored the official Philippine delegation to the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA)—widely regarded as the Olympics of the performing arts. Gracing the occasion as Keynote Speaker was Villar Foundation’s Managing Director, Cynthia A. Villar, a long-time advocate for Filipino culture and the arts, and proud sponsor of Team Philippines.
In her keynote address, Villar praised the dedication and artistry of this year’s delegates, acknowledging their journey as a reflection of Filipino resilience and excellence. “To be chosen for Team Philippines is already a tremendous achievement,” Villar stated.
“You showed not only skill, but also grit, passion, and discipline. You are not just performers—you are ambassadors of Filipino culture and excellence.” Emphasizing the symbolism of the ceremonial blue jacket, Villar reminded the artists of the deeper meaning it carries—the collective dream of the Filipino people, the pride of our heritage, and the strength of talent that is ready to captivate the world. “Behind every note sung and every step rehearsed are stories of sleepless nights, long commutes, and choosing again and again to keep going. For that, saludo ako sa inyo,” she added, drawing warm applause from the audience.
Villar also highlighted her long-standing support for Filipino creatives through the establishment of the Villar School of Performing Arts, operated in collaboration with WCOPA Philippines. Located in Las Piñas City, the school serves not only as a training ground for world-class performers, but also as a sanctuary for aspiring artists—where raw talent is nurtured and dreams are transformed into global achievements.
As Team Philippines prepares to compete at the WCOPA 2025, happening in Long Beach, California, USA from July 17 to 25, Villar urged the delegates to step onto the world stage with pride and humility.
“Let your art be your offering. Let your passion inspire the world to see what we already know—that the Filipino is world-class,” she concluded. This year’s WCOPA is expected to feature performers from over 60 nations, all vying for international recognition, scholarships worth over $700,000, and the coveted Grand Champion Performer of the World title. With the entire nation rallying behind them, the 2025 WCOPA Philippine delegation of 56 individuals carries not just talent, but the soul of a country rich in culture and artistry.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang Artistang Pilipino!