J-pop goes our hearts!

March 12, 2018

Applause and cheers filled the air as Filipino performers showcased their talents at the 9th J-pop Anime Singing Contest on Saturday, March 3, 2018. The event, which was held at the SM Cinema Centerstage, featured 15 Grand Finalists’ individual renditions of their Japanese song of choice.

In the end, returning contender Johannie Velasco emerged on top, placing first, with her heartfelt version of “Eternal Blaze” by Nana Mizuki. Coming in second was Ana Marie Alforte, who sang the classic anime hit “Anata Dake Mitsumeteru” by Maki Ohguro. Cinching the top 3 spot was Jena Mostajo, who serenaded the audience with “Aitakute Ima” originally sung by Misia.

Special recognitions were also given to the following:

Bandai’s Best Awardees: Cha-cha Cañete, kuri~n, and Arianne Zagala

TOEI’s Favorite Awardees: Nicx and Yuri

HERO’s Choice Awardee: Risu

All winners received prizes and goodie bags from the event’s sponsors. On top of these, the Grand Prize Winner, Johannie Velasco (plus her chosen companion), will be enjoying an all-expense paid trip to Japan!

The J-pop Anime Singing Contest is organised by the Embassy of Japan in collaboration with The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM), All Nippon Airways, Ajinomoto Philippines, Bandai Namco Philippines Inc., Canon Information Technologies, Inc., Canon Marketing Philippines, Center for Pop Music Philippines, HERO, Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines, Inc., Lotte Confectionery Pilipinas Corporation, Lyceum of the Philippines, Nihongo Center Foundation, Panasonic Philippines Corporation, Sony Philippines, SM Cinema Centerstage, SM Mall of Asia, SM Supermalls, Toei Animation Philippines, Inc., Universal Holidays, Inc., Yakult Philippines, and Yoshinoya. Its goal is to help strengthen the longstanding friendship between Japan and the Philippines through J-pop and cultural exchange. It has been held every year since 2008 and attracts an annual average of 400 spectators. Embassy of Japan/ DMS