Kapamilya singer in WCOPA Hall of Fame
MANILA, Philippines -- Kapamilya singer Jed Madela is hoping to release an album internationally in the near future.
Days before his induction into the Hall of Fame of the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) on July 19, the 32-year-old actor said he is hoping to follow up his latest recognition with a a new record or even an acting performance for an international audience.
"[Gusto ko] iri-release siya all over the world or major countries. Pinaka dream ko din siguro is being onstage in theater production, probably Broadway, but then as long as may opportunity na dadating, tingnan natin," he told ABS-CBN News shortly before his departure for the United States early this week.
Madela is currently in Los Angeles to attend the formal ceremony wherein he will be awarded the highest honor given by the WCOPA.
In 2005, Madela became the first Filipino to win as grand champion in the WCOPA, besting 3,000 other international contestants.
Previous WCOPA Hall of Fame inductees and recipients of the organization's Achievement Award include Minnelli; Daniel Marmarre, President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil; and American singer Dionne Warwick.
Madela is the first contestant in the WCOPA to also receive its Achievement Award.
"First major award talaga. Kumbaga isang malaking recognition na matatanggap ko sa buong buhay ko. Hindi lang local kundi international. Forever na 'to eh, nakaukit na pangalan ko sa world championships," he said.
Pinoy pride
Madela, who has since released seven albums, said he is particularly proud to once again bring honor the country with his latest achievement.
"Kasi unang-una palang nung 2005 nung sumali ako do'n, kumbaga literal na ini-itsapwera tayo do'n. Hindi nila kilala yung Pilipinas. It was the first time na sumali 'yung Pinoy.
"I want everybody in the world to know that Filipinos are one great bunch of talented people -- mapa-kanta, sayaw, acting, lahat-lahat siguro. Hindi sa nagmamayabang ako, but I think Filipinos are an all-around race. Name it, kayang gawin ng Pinoy," he said.
This time around, Madela will be joined by several other Filipino delegates to the WCOPA.
ABS-CBN child star Chacha Cañete is among the Philippines' representatives to the competition, which will be held until July 21. The eight-year-old will compete as a solo vocalist in five different categories -- Broadway, Pop, Gospel/Inspirational, Open and Original.
"Buong Team Philippines, 35 ata 'yung delegates natin," Madela said. "Sobrang excited ako. Personally I saw auditions. Sobra akong excited kasi im sure 'di tayo mawawalan ng pwesto dun."
