Aside from making the SMX Convention Center into a book paradise during the 35th Manila International Book Fair (MIBF), Primetrade Asia, Inc., also organized a cosplay event for bookworms and anime lovers alike where they can show their passion for anything Japanese through the anime-themed convention.
The attendees were treated to a karaoke competition where they sang their favorite Japanese tracks while aspiring manga artist had given the opportunity to show off their talent with their fellow anime enthusiast. An interschool cosplay competition took place where young cosplayers suddenly became their school’s pride.
A showdown among bands was also held, covering some popular anime soundtracks. For those who are dreaming to become a voice actress (dubber), they were given an anime dubbing workshop. The event was also attended by known cosplayers; Singapore’s Kaika; Thailand’s Karael & Onnie and Philippines very own Liui Aquino where they gave the audience scream-worthy performances.
Just some of the cosplayers
The yearly Hero Face Off of Hero TV also happened in BOA 2014, it is an ultimate cosplay battle which is separate from BOA's Interschool Cosplay Competition. Hero Face Off 2014 Grand Champions were Angel Andrea Hernandez from Cainta, Rizal and Richard Brian Cheng from Quezon City. These winners were named by a panel of judges, composed of Myrtle Sarrosa (PBB grand winner and Hero TV jock), Jojo Neri-Estacio (Hero TV Channel Head), and Tessa Prieto-Valdez (celebrity socialite).
Apart from that, organizers of BOA also brought international acts that topped off the two-day event. They are Joe Innoue (Japanese-American rock star), Heidi (Japanese visual kei rock band) and Starmarie (J-pop idol group). They introduced their brand of music to their fans who witnessed their breathtaking live performance.
Like any other anime-themed convention — Best of Anime 2014 was ruled by cosplayers where you can see them enjoying every bit of it while sharing their passion with other anime fans. BOA also provided booths where attendees can buy anime-related merchandise like plush toys, posters, shirts and album.
Best of Anime 2014 was held simultaneously with the 35th Manila International Book Fair. Both events were organized by Primetrade Asia, Inc.. in partnership with Asian Catholic Communicators, Inc. (ACCI), Philippine Booksellers Association, Inc., (PBAI), Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP), and the Overseas Publishers Representatives Organization of the Philippines (OPRAP).
The event was held at the Function Rooms 3 and 4 of the SMX Convention Center and was attended by several cosplayer groups including Naruto Cosplayers Philippines.