From the Philippines to the USA: WCOPA Auditions Set at SM City Bacolod Sept.6

Calling all singers, dancers, actors, models, instrumentalists, and variety performers: individuals or groups!

The spotlight is once again on Bacolod as the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) Philippines returns for auditions at SM City Bacolod Event Center on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Registration begins at 11AM, open to singers, dancers, actors, models, instrumentalists, and variety performers.

WCOPA, also dubbed the “Olympics of Talent,” draws thousands of hopefuls worldwide to the USA, where they compete for medals, titles, and the chance to be recognized internationally.

Filipinos have long shone in this arena. Philippine singing sensation Jed Madela of Iloilo was the first Filipino to achieve the Grand Champion Performer of the World title, winning it in Hollywood, California in 2005, besting over 3,000 contestants.

Other notable talents also brought home world titles: Aria Clemente (Laguna, 2007), Rhap Salazar (Laguna, 2009), and Rose Mamaclay (San Juan, 2010).

More recently, Ilonggo talent Thed Maglocot captured the Junior Grand Champion Performer of the World in 2023, while La Castellana, Negros Occidental’s very own Bailes de Luces dancers became Senior Grand World Champions in 2024.

This year’s auditions may well uncover the next local to represent the Philippines in the world stage, proof that global dreams can begin right here in Bacolod and Negros Island.*