The Golden Ballroom of Okada Manila was alive with patriotic pride and artistic passion on Friday as Senator Cynthia Villar led the ceremonial send-off for the Philippine delegation to the 2025 World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), also known as the "Olympics of the performing arts."

The Feel It Pilipinas Blue Jacket Ceremony honored 56 delegates representing the country in the prestigious international competition set to take place in Long Beach, California from July 17 to 25.

Gracing the occasion was Villar Foundation Managing Director and long-time cultural advocate, Sen. Cynthia A. Villar, who serves as a sponsor of Team Philippines. In her keynote speech, Villar commended the performers for embodying the talent and perseverance of the Filipino spirit.

“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.”

As she helped present the symbolic blue jackets to the delegates, Villar emphasized the deeper meaning behind the garment.

“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.

Villar also highlighted her long-standing support for Filipino creatives, citing the Villar School of Performing Arts in Las Piñas City, which she established in collaboration with WCOPA Philippines. The school serves as a training ground for world-class talent and a safe space for aspiring performers.

As Team Philippines prepares to take the global stage, Villar urged them to perform with both 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 said in closing.

This year’s WCOPA is expected to draw talent from over 60 countries, offering more than $700,000 in scholarships and the coveted Grand Champion Performer of the World title.

With the blue jackets now worn and hearts ignited, the 2025 Philippine delegation carries not just their talent, but the hopes of an entire nation.