By Niña Christelle M. Sumintac, StratCom Correspondent

Fourteen artists from the MMSU Teatro Normal Laboratoryo are set to compete on an international stage at the 28th World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), taking place from July 15 to 25, 2025, in Long Beach, California, USA.

These students from the College of Teacher Education (CTE), along with professor and creative director Dr. James Ventura III, secured their spots to represent the Philippines by qualifying in auditions held on October 26, 2024, at SM City Clark in Pampanga. The auditions attracted hundreds of performers from across Luzon, covering categories such as singing, acting, dancing, modeling, and instrumental performance.

The MMSU artists joining WCOPA include dance group members Roldan Jhay Miguel, Mike Gio Medrano, Grant Matthew Nicolas, Mark Aaron Gajonera, Troy Mañosca, Errol Jae Manglal-lan, Keith Han Pascua, Harville Xander C. Gajonera, and Mark Louie Espejo; solo vocalists Kailah Bea Galzote and Dr. James Ventura III; dance soloists Troy Mañosca and Mike Gio Medrano; and acting solo performers Alecksa Espiritu, Lorelei Balanay, and Vince Tacderan.

Dr. Ventura expressed his excitement about their achievement, saying, “We are grateful for the opportunity to represent our country. Preparing for the auditions was challenging due to typhoons, time constraints from midterm exams, and other university events. These factors limited our practice time but ultimately made us more resilient. We are ready to showcase our talents and make the Philippines proud.”

CTE Dean Dr. Aris Reynold Cajigal also praised the group, stating, “The world-class performance of our artists reflects the vibrant learning environment at MMSU CTE that nurtures competence, skills, and talents. I wish them all the best on the international stage next year.”

This achievement adds to MMSU’s growing global recognition in performing arts, following the Nasudi Chorale’s historic win as the first state university choir from the Philippines to receive an award at the World Choir Games in Auckland, New Zealand.