APCC 2016 – CAGE Manila 2016 Open Category Cosplay!

Cosplay has been a staple in the Philippine convention community for over a decade. Every year, more and more cosplayers join this growing hobby and continue to hone their crafting skills. Though there are some who believe that that the cosplay scene has become rote and expected, one must only look at the right places to see that it still thrives.

Partnered with Asia Pop Comicon Manila, the Cosplay Authority Global ChallengE – otherwise known as The CAGE – aims to be the premier gathering of cosplayers from around the world. They hope to build sustained growth and interest of like-minded people, regardless of race, gender, or age. The CAGE Manila 2016 judges exemplify this vision by representing veteran cosplayers from our own local backyard to across the Pacific Ocean.

Whereas the the CAGE Manila 2016 judges have already solidified their place in the international cosplay community, contestants of the Open Category are hungry to earn their time in the sun. Fame (and a grand cash prize of $10,000) are more than enough to encourage all participants to elevate their performance and bring their A-game. Cosplayers can represent any aspect of pop culture, from comic books and movies to video games and manga.

Cosplayers of all kinds were well represented in CAGE Manila 2016. A veteran of the Kids Category made her big splash in the Open Category as the youngest female mecha cosplayer. Another cosplayer was finally able to show off the fantastic costume – a product of all her time away from her BPO profession.

More than a few contestants utilized the amazing stage skits, simulating epic showdowns from our childhood. They all exhibited levels of detail and craftsmanship rarely seen in the Philippines. Both judges and audience members agree that the entire show was inspiring, encouraging everyone to continue stoking their passion for cosplay.

Although all the contestants blew everyone off their feet, there can only be one winner in the CAGE Manila 2016 Open Category contest. That special honor went to Mr. Fred Vinas as Boush the Tinker from Dota 2. A special combination of creativity, attention to detail, and a flair for the theatrical catapulted him to the forefront of the competition.

Congratulations to everyone who participated in CAGE Manila 2016!