The 2013 J-Pop Anime Singing, Cosplay Mini-Contest and Anime Film Showing were successfully held at the SM Mall of Asia Center Stage as one of the highlights of the Philippines-Japan Friendship Month and the 40th Year of Asean-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. The non-stop array of activities organized by the Japanese Embassy, the Japan Foundation Manila, and their partner organizations and sponsors served as testimonials on the strength of cultural ties between the Philippines in Japan, with Filipinos openly embracing the Japanese people’s modern art forms.
2013 J-Pop Anime Singing Contest. Four exceptionally talented J-Pop singers wowed the judges and emerged as winners for this year’s 2013 J-Pop Contest. The grand prize was awarded to Melrick James Celajes, the nine-year-old boy who impressed the crowd in his rendition of “Piece of my Wish.” The soulful voice of Sheena Stacey Gonzales landed her second place as she performed “Kimi ni Todoke.” The third spot was given to Diana Tabitha Caro as she performed the “Ryuusei.” Fourth place winner was Alexys Arcilla for his heartfelt performance of the song, “Saigo no Ame. ” This year’s recipient of Hero’s Choice and Toie’s Choice awards was Melrick James Celajes.