World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2024 champion Blessie Mae Alipopo Abagat is set to sing the national anthem for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 22.
In a statement released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Sunday night, Abagat will perform “Lupang Hinirang” to open the SONA 2024.
“The honor of singing ‘Lupang Hinirang’ at Batasang Pambansa for this year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on July 22, 2024 goes to World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2024 Gold Medalist Blessie Mae Alipopo Abagat,” the statement read.
Recently, the 27-year-old singer proudly represented the Philippines at the WCOPA held from June 28 to July 7 in Anaheim, California.
During the prestigious competition, she achieved remarkable success, earning the title of Division Champion in Vocal Pop, and securing silver medals in both the Vocal Gospel and Vocal Broadway categories. Additionally, she was honored as a triple gold medalist in Vocal Gospel, Vocal Contemporary, and Vocal Pop.
According to the PCO, her upcoming participation at the SONA is a celebration of her talents and achievement in bringing pride to the Philippines.
“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 statement read.
“The journey from her humble beginnings to the international stage of WCOPA highlights the exceptional musical talent that thrives within her and the potential of Filipino artists to shine globally,” PCO noted.
The WCOPA is often described as the official “Talent Olympics” for aspiring performers and entertainers from around 70 countries, according to its official website.
President Marcos will present his third SONA at the Batasang Pambansa in front of a joint session of Congress on Monday at 4PM. The President is expected to highlight his administration’s accomplishments over the past years and outline his visions, policies, and key priorities for the nation’s future.
