UST student wins in Europop

RYAN Richard Tamondong won the grand prix at this year’s Europop singing contest.

A 17-year-old theater student from University of Santo Tomas won the grand prix at this year’s Europop singing contest, held in Berlin, Germany, on Nov. 29. Ryan Richard Tamondong bested contestants from 17 European countries, with his rendition of “Be Strong,” an original composition by Elmer Blancaflor.

Tamondong told the Inquirer via SMS: “I am very happy and, to be honest, surprised that I brought home the grand prize, because there were many good contestants from other European countries.” The Philippines is the only Asian country invited to join Europop. Another Pinoy contestant, Gyver Jude Concon, placed fourth in the 18-to-24 age category. Other Filipino contestants, Princess Faith Priel and Mikee Micosa, received a diploma and a medal.

This is the second year for the Philippines to join Europop. Last year, Ana Katrina Ramsey won first place in the 18-to-24 age category, while Gian Marla Gloria placed fourth, and Glee Nette Gaddi third in the 14-to-17 age group. Also last year, “Goin’ Bulilit” mainstay, Cha Cha Cañete, placed second in the 10-to-13 age category, while Natalie Erin Martinez received a diploma and a medal.

“There is no doubt that the Philippines is blessed with so much talent. Filipino artists are truly world-class,” said Charie Vega, head of Vega Entertainment, the company that brought the Filipino singers to the Europop contest. “I’m proud of all the singers who competed in Germany!”

Viktor Leis, managing director of Leider Leis Musik Production (which organized Europop), said that the Filipinos have set the bar high for other countries in future competitions. According to Leis, Europop is the Philippines’ second big win in a European talent tilt this year.

In August, Kissel Valdez also topped the Star Raine contest in Prague, Czech Republic—another competition spearheaded by Leis.

For 2016, Vega Entertainment is preparing for competitions to be held in Belarus (March), Malta (May), Spain (June), Czech Republic (August) and Germany (November).