MANILA, Philippines – Aside from the President's actual speech during the annual State of the Nation Address (SONA) and the beautiful outfits of the guests on the red carpet, another highlight is who will lead the singing of "Lupang Hinirang," the national anthem of the Philippines.
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| Photo courtesy: Blessie Mae Abagat, Annie T. Mercado (Facebook) |
A 27-year-old Bikolana has been chosen to sing the national anthem of the Philippines for President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr.'s third SONA on Monday, July 22, at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.
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Blessie Mae Abagat, from Camaligan, Camarines Sur, won several awards in five vocal styles at the 2024 World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA).
Her awards in WCOPA include the 2024 Division Champion (Vocal Pop), Semifinal Silver Medalist (Vocal Gospel), and three Gold Medals (Vocal Gospel, Vocal Contemporary, Vocal Pop), along with a Silver Medal (Vocal Broadway). These victories have brought pride to the nation and emphasized her exceptional talent.
"The WCOPA champ’s story of dedication and success reflects the cultural pride and nurturing of the history of Bicol, which has been instrumental in shaping her as an artist. Her upcoming vocal performance at the third SONA of President Marcos Jr. not only highlights her individual achievements but also represents the collective aspirations and pride of her fellow Filipinos," the Presidential Communications Office wrote in an article on Monday.
According to a recent report by ABS-CBN News, Blessie did not expect to be chosen to sing the national anthem at SONA 2024.
“I was shocked when Darius [Miguel] messaged me. Sabi niya ‘Ate, block your July 22 for SONA. Hindi talaga agad nag-sink in sa akin na ako pala ‘yong napili to sing the national anthem for SONA,” she said.
The Darius mentioned by the Bikolana singer is reportedly one of the provincial directors at WCOPA Philippines.
Meanwhile, in preparation for her performance, Blessie underwent intensive training with the help and guidance of the Academy of Performing Arts.
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
