The Philippine Skating Union, in partnership with SM Skating, spread holiday cheer with "Carols On Ice" at SM Skating Mall of Asia. The star-studded event raised funds to support skating in the country and foster a deeper appreciation for ice skating by creating an avenue for young athletes to contribute to the sport's growth and development.
With more than 500 spectators, "Carols On Ice" was a unique experience that showcased Philippine talent in figure skating, short-track speed skating, and ice hockey.
Guests who showed their support for the Philippine skaters included Hans T. Sy, chairman of the SM Group and Philippine Skating Union, and his family; Nikki Cheng, president, Philippine Skating Union; Richard Bachmann, chairman, Philippine Sports Commission; Olivia "Bong" Coo, commissioner, Philippine Sports Commission; Steve Hontiveros, chairman, Philippine Olympic Committee; Carl Sambrano, deputy secretary general, Philippine Olympic Committee; Vicente Sotto, former Senate president; Faustino Michael Dy, congressman and chairman for Youth and Sports Development; Freddie Webb, former senator and Philippine Olympic team basketball player; Pinky Webb, CNN news anchor; Albino Limketkai, COO, Limketkai Sons Inc.; Jun Camcam, CEO, Remax Realty; Angelica Jones Alarva, board member, 3rd district of Laguna; and SM Supermalls executives.
"The level of support from the audiences for both our National Championships and 'Carols on Ice' was incredible. The overwhelming attendance reflects the progress we're making in raising awareness for the sport. While we acknowledge there's more work ahead, the seeds we've planted are gradually blossoming. We thank each and everyone that came to these events. Their presence means so much to us and our skaters," said Cheng.
Guests were wowed by the world-class artistic dance numbers of various Philippine national skating athletes performing songs from the 1950s to the 2020s. Among those who performed were two-time Winter Olympian Michael Martinez; the first SEA and Philippine pair to compete in the World Championships of Figure Skating Isabella Gamez and Alexander Korovin; 2022 National Champion and Junior Worlds figure skater Sofia Frank; GMA Sparkle Artist and 2022 National Medalist Charmaine Skye Chua; and back-to-back National Junior medalist Cathryn Limketkai.
The event was choreographed and guested in by visiting international coach and three-time Canadian national medalist Anthony Cheng.
Sponsors and supporters of the event included SM Supermalls, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Milo, Nestle Cereals, Project Fit, Nanonix Philippines, and The Moment Group.