Once again, the Philippines has proven its worth in the international scene as a Filipino grabbed the top prize at the recently held 5th International Competition of Arts and Culture 2018! Clem Marnel Burgos, a 4th year Mass Communication Student from Central Philippine University in Iloilo travelled all the way to Armenia to compete at the competition organized by the World Association of Performing Arts (WAPA).
From Nursing to Acting
Before Burgos got into theatre arts, he graduated with a degree in Nursing and managed to pass the Nursing Licensure exam years ago. After practicing his profession for 3 years, he had to resign in 2016 to focus on his studies for his second course. “I am a self-supporting student, working part time as an online English Tutor in order to pay for my tuition. I had an agreement with my Dad and Mom that I will graduate Masscom without them spending any cent for my tuition. Nursing was something I did for my parents but Masscom was something I did for myself,” shares Burgos.
Being exposed in stage performances as early as 14 years of age, it wasn’t until 2016 when Burgos finally began formal training with Iloilo Prima Galaw, a premier theatre group based in Iloilo. “Iloilo Prima Galaw with the joint effort of our director Sir Romie John Delariarte and my mentor Goria “Mamu” Aguiling, my talent was polished. Both taught me to keep in touch with my past for raw emotions,” said Burgos.
Journey to Armenia
Fast forward to the present, Burgos incidentally stumbled upon a post about the International Performing Arts Competition and just tried to send an application to see if he qualifies. “I sent an application form expressing my interest to join the competition. I was also asked to send videos of my previous stage performances in order for them to see what my background is. It was just a week before the competition that I have learned that I was the only delegate from the Philippines,” explains Burgos.
However, not everything was smooth sailing as he struggled mainly with finances and a mishap on the day of the event. “My barkada, close friends, batchmates and people who never stopped believing in my capacity. God sent them as my angels to allow me to “fly” to Armenia. On the day of the event, the driver took me to another venue – probably due to miscommunication. I found myself walking through the streets of Armenia looking like a beggar or a mentally ill patient because of how I looked in full make up. Good thing, God still provided me a good samaritan through an Armenian native who helped me ride a taxi and bring me to the right venue,” shares Burgos.
Worldwide Competition and Recognition
Besting 44 other competitors from 12 countries around the globe, Burgos claimed the top spot at the competition to be not only the first Filipino to compete, but also the first Filipino to ever with the top prize to date! “It was so heartwarming to receive praises from other nationalities
(judges) especially introducing what Filipino talent is. I know there are far more talented Filipinos than me but at least in my own way, I was able to embark something for our country which other nationalities embraced with open arms,” said Burgos.
Burgos’ final advice to those who wish to carve their own path was to persist and believe in themselves and God: “Never give up. Sometimes, it is not just having faith but by having conviction of that faith. Walk by faith and not by sight. No doubts. No fears. Just a child-like faith towards the Lord Jesus Christ and He will guide you and propel you to greater heights. Always be grateful to everyone and to God.” –
