Anime ‘fanatics’ have fun at Animax Carnival with Japanese, Filipino performers

Anime fanatics in the Philippines were treated to two-day fun-filled activities during the Animax Carnival Philippines 2015 at the SMX convention center in Pasay City over the weekend.

Dressed like their favorite Anime characters, around 500 Otaku (Anime-fanatic) teens and teens at heart showcased their characters through their creative and impeccable costumes.

Exciting anime-themed activities

Anime lovers were submerged into the exciting world of Anime and experienced the Japanese culture through exciting Anime-themed activities.

Fans were able to play traditional Japanese games such as Shitake and Kendama, among others.

The participants also learned how to write their names in Japanese and make Origami.

To maximize their Anime experience, fans watched the latest episode of their favorite Anime series.

Attendees also tasted a variety of Japanese foods offered during the event as well as bought various Japanese fashion merchandise.

Japanese performances

An array of Japanese performances was also showcased during the Animax event, which was highlighted by a cosplay competition.

The Anime lovers cheered when Alodia Gosiengfiao, Queen of Philippine Cosplay, performed on stage with her creative Anime costume.

Alodia served as one of the three judges in the competition.

Portraying the character of Erza Scarlet in the Anime series Fairytale, Tantin Meneses impressed the judges with her detailed Anime costume and superb moves.

Meneses vs bullying

Meneses, in an interview with INQUIRER.net after winning the competition, said cosplaying for her is more than just winning and wearing a costume.

She said she was used to be bullied physically and emotionally when she was a student.

“Cosplaying became my solace and it helped me regain my confidence which I lost when I experienced bullying,” she said.

She said cosplaying helped her embody the values of her favorite Anime character, Ezra, who “is fierce and yet a warm-hearted person.”

She said that the cosplay community learned to accept her for who she is, where she gained friends who let her feel loved.

“Those who are bullied should strive, should not be discouraged,” she said, adding that they should pursue their passion in life.

In the cosplay community, she said, everyone is welcome.

Special guests and performers

Besides Gosiengfiao, other special performers showcased their talents during the event.

Japanese tambourine master “Gonzo” performed his signature moves, which kept Anime fans alive.

Gonzo, who is a first-time visitor in the country, said he was awed by the warm reception he received.

“It’s been really fun,” he said, adding that he was able to eat Filipino food including adobo.

He said playing the tambourine relaxes his mind and body.

The Japanese group “Triqstar” also performed, incorporating the traditional Japanese Kabuki.

The Junior New System, a finalist in the recent Asia’s Got Talent, also performed and wowed the crowd with their flawless moves and stunts.–Ma. Rhona Ysabel Daoang, trainee/NC