Four vocalists to represent UAE at prestigious global competition ‘I-Sing World' in Canada
Set to take place from August 12 to 25, the team includes senior vocalist Dr. Rommel Sergio and junior vocalists Zairah Alexine Ragat, Kirstin Reyes, and Celine Madison Mantondo.
The UAE's participation is organized by EMS Events and Entertainment Centre FZE, led by vocal coach Elipas Sibua, who also serves as the national director of I-Sing World UAE and the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) – UAE team.
A longstanding advocate for Filipino and multicultural talent in the UAE, Sibua continues to provide world-class opportunities and training to aspiring performers through platforms such as I-Sing World and WCOPA.
Before flying to Canada, the group will hold a send-off concert on July 25 at Canadian University Dubai, featuring performances by artists from various countries, namely Guillermo Alberto Vera, a cellist from Venezuela; John Paul Alviz, a pianist and 2024 WCOPA Grand Finalist from the Philippines; Rojen Khalil, a violinist from India; Keer Wang, a multi-medalist pianist at WCOPA 2024 from China; and Olivia Sheel, an accomplished ballet dancer from South Africa, with musical direction to be helmed by Sibua.
I-Sing World is an international singing competition often called the 'Olympics of Singing,' bringing together top vocalists from around the world to compete in genres such as pop, rock, jazz, R&B, gospel, and musical theater.
Ten-year-old Celine Madison Mantondo is known for her expressive vocals and guitar skills. At age 8, she won Safa British School's Got Talent and has since performed in school events and cultural shows while excelling in academics.
Kirstin Reyes, 12, is a singer, dancer, model, and actress who has earned titles from competitions such as We Are One and the International Designer League. She is currently preparing for both I-Sing World and WCOPA 2026.
Zairah Alexine Ragat gained recognition after winning gold medals at WCOPA 2024 in Hollywood. She has performed in musical theater and fashion shows and was recently selected for the Mercedes-Benz Star Talent Audition.
Dr. Rommel Sergio is a professor and musician who has released original songs and covers on Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Music. He starred in Kalayaan at Pag-ibig by Off Broadway UAE and will represent the UAE at both I-Sing World 2025 and WCOPA 2026.
The UAE's participation underscores the country's commitment to the arts and its support for international cultural exchange.
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Filipino Times
6 days ago
- Filipino Times
Four Filipino vocalists to represent UAE at international singing competition
Four outstanding Filipino vocalists are set to raise the flag of the United Arab Emirates at the international singing contest 'I-Sing World' taking place from August 12 to 15 at the Xinflix Auditorium in Toronto, Canada. Representing the UAE on this global stage are senior vocalist Dr. Rommel Sergio and junior vocalists Zairah Alexine Ragat, Kirstin Reyes, and Celine Madison Mantondo—all handpicked for their exceptional talent, artistry, and commitment to their musical craft. Their participation is officially organized by EMS Events and Entertainment Centre FZE, under the leadership of Mr. Elipas Sibua, National Director of I-Sing World UAE and a renowned vocal coach. Mr. Sibua, also known for his work with the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), continues to champion Filipino and multicultural excellence by creating opportunities for rising talents. In celebration of their upcoming journey, a vibrant Send-Off Concert was held on July 25 at Canadian University Dubai, brimming with emotion, talent, and cultural unity, honoring the I-Sing UAE delegates while spotlighting a diverse lineup of international performers. The concert featured: • Camilla Ayeesha Emperado – Filipino saxophonist • Dwayne Fernandes – Indian Guitarist and WCOPA 2026 delegate • John Paul Alviz – Renowned Filipino pianist & WCOPA 2024 Grand Finalist • Rojen Khalil – Egyptian violinist • Keer Wang – Chinese pianist and WCOPA 2024 multi-medalist • Olivia Sheel – South African ballet dancer & WCOPA 2026 delegate • Heinrich Agsaullo – Filipino pianist and vocalist • Allysa Ili – Filipino singer & WCOPA 2026 delegate Hon. Vice Consul Jim Jimeno of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai in his inspirational message emphasized the role of cultural diplomacy through music and the importance of honoring the Filipino spirit on global platforms. Under the musical direction of Mr. Sibua, the evening was a resounding celebration of excellence, drawing attention to the UAE's commitment to nurturing both local and international performing artists. 'Let us continue to support and uplift our Filipino talents as they bring pride to the UAE and the world,' Sibua encouraged. Celine Madison Mantondo (Age 10) A musical prodigy since age three, Celine is known for her expressive vocals and guitar playing. She won Safa British School's Got Talent at just eight and continues to captivate audiences at various cultural events. A consistent honor student and member of the dance crew Bkidzzz, Celine dreams of blending music and entrepreneurship in the future. Kirstin Reyes (Age 12) A multi-talented performer, Kirstin excels in singing, dancing, acting, and modeling. A decorated competitor, she's walked major runways such as We Are One and International Designer League . Now preparing for both I-Sing World 2025 and WCOPA 2026, Kirstin is emerging as one of the UAE's brightest young stars. Zairah Alexine Ragat A vocal powerhouse, Zairah earned Gold Medals in Broadway (Self-Accompaniment) and Gospel at WCOPA 2024 in Hollywood, and was named a Grand Finalist. She starred as Princess Jasmine in Aladdin Jr. , walked the runway at Emirates Fashion Week , and performed the theme song for Kalayaan 2025. Recently chosen for the Mercedes-Benz Star Talent Audition , her career trajectory is rapidly soaring. Dr. Rommel Sergio A distinguished academic and artist, Sergio is a Professor of Management and former Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at Canadian University Dubai. His passion for music began in childhood church choirs, leading to his release of cover tracks on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. He recently starred in Kalayaan at Pag-ibig, an original Filipino musical, and is now preparing for WCOPA 2026 as a senior vocalist.
Gulf Today
28-07-2025
- Gulf Today
UAE to compete at ‘I-Sing World Finals' in Toronto
Powerful albeit effortless from an ensemble, it happened in Dubai on Friday evening while blitzes of all form and substance have been rocking and rattling the world. This was the send-off for a quartet who shall represent the UAE at an international vocal excellence competition in Canada this August 12 to 15. A concert that took place several days after the UAE was ranked among the safest in the world, and was only expected to preview what Kirstin Reyes (12), Zairah Alexine Ragat (12), Celine Madison Matondo (10), and Dr. Rommel Pilapil Sergio (51), would be able to deliver at the 'I-Sing World Finals' in Toronto. Regardless of race, creed and orientation, one would have the chance to abound with their God-given talents by way of well-grounded guidance and support. 'I-Sing World Finals' is a twist from the 2014 13-Asian country battle of singers 'I-Sing' competition founded by Malaysian entertainment industry players Yuro James Tee and Romli Bidin. I-Sing World Finals (UAE) national director Elipas Sibua said: 'Held yearly, it is a cultural movement that promotes excellence in singing, performance artistry, and international collaboration. It provides a stage for both amateur and professional singers to shine, compete, and be discovered.' 'The festival is a vibrant hub of music genres, vocal styles, and artistic interpretations. The UAE Team proudly joins the global celebration to represent not only the United Arab Emirates but also the rich diversity and talent of its people,' added Sibua. Sibua has been preparing his students Reyes, Ragat, Matondo, and Sergio for the four-round solo and duet category friendly blitzkriegs one hour in every thrice-a-week session in the past four weeks. According to the competition website, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Thailand, Uzbekhistan, South Africa, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brazil, Tajikistan, Cuba, China, Kyrgystan, and Kazakhstan are at least the other 13 participating countries. On Friday evening, the Canadian University Dubai Hub was transformed into an intimate musical venue where the UAE Team rendered Filipino and English contemporary and classical songs. Some were accompanied by Berklee College of Music (Boston, Massachusetts) student, John Paul Alviz who began piano lessons at age seven in the Philippines. Ballerina Olivia Sheel interpreted the 'Twilight Saga' theme song 'A Thousand Years.' Other performers were Ayeesha Camilla Emperado, saxophone; Heinrich Agsaulo, piano, original Filipino compositions; Dwayne Fernandes, electric guitar; Rojen Khalil, violin, traditional Arabic music; Keer Wang, piano, classical pieces; and from Alviz who encouraged the audience to sing along with his medley of love songs. Children of expatriates from South Africa, the Philippines, India, Egypt, and China, all have been tutored by Sibua for at least a year. Like Ragat who harvested gold and silver in the categories of broadway, gospel, self-accompaniment, and modeling; Alviz entered the finals and reaped six golds while Wang hauled in a bronze, three silvers and three golds in their respective piano divisions at the 'World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2024' in Los Angeles, California. Ragat, encouraged to profoundly progress on her love for music by her parents and Sibua, said: 'That incredible WCOPA 2024 experience ignited a deeper passion for singing and performing. It showed me how powerful music can be, not just as an art form; but as a way to connect, inspire, and express myself. I am excited to keep on pursuing music and growing as an artist. I am excited for the UAE Team at the I-Sing World Finals. I am grateful.' Reyes was age three when her musically-inclined parents introduced her to the arts: 'Dad and mom played a variety of genres. I found myself drawn to singing. Influences like Celine Dion and pop, rock, among others shaped my style. Thank you to Coach Eli (Sibua). Music has always been a source of joy and self-expression. It is a mix of excitement and nerves for the incredible opportunity at the I-Sing World. I hope to grow as an artist through it.' Matondo is among the BKIDZZZ modern hip-hop/K-pop dance group that represented the UAE at the Junior Category of the 'World Supremacy Battlegrounds 2025 at The Space of the Dubai Investment Park. University educator Sergio's love for music began when he joined the church choir in his hometown of Baras in Rizal Province, Philippines.
Filipino Times
24-07-2025
- Filipino Times
Four vocalists to represent UAE at prestigious global competition ‘I-Sing World' in Canada
Four exceptional vocalists are set to raise the United Arab Emirates flag high at the prestigious I-Sing World Singing Competition in Toronto, Canada. Set to take place from August 12 to 25, the team includes senior vocalist Dr. Rommel Sergio and junior vocalists Zairah Alexine Ragat, Kirstin Reyes, and Celine Madison Mantondo. The UAE's participation is organized by EMS Events and Entertainment Centre FZE, led by vocal coach Elipas Sibua, who also serves as the national director of I-Sing World UAE and the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) – UAE team. A longstanding advocate for Filipino and multicultural talent in the UAE, Sibua continues to provide world-class opportunities and training to aspiring performers through platforms such as I-Sing World and WCOPA. Before flying to Canada, the group will hold a send-off concert on July 25 at Canadian University Dubai, featuring performances by artists from various countries, namely Guillermo Alberto Vera, a cellist from Venezuela; John Paul Alviz, a pianist and 2024 WCOPA Grand Finalist from the Philippines; Rojen Khalil, a violinist from India; Keer Wang, a multi-medalist pianist at WCOPA 2024 from China; and Olivia Sheel, an accomplished ballet dancer from South Africa, with musical direction to be helmed by Sibua. I-Sing World is an international singing competition often called the 'Olympics of Singing,' bringing together top vocalists from around the world to compete in genres such as pop, rock, jazz, R&B, gospel, and musical theater. Ten-year-old Celine Madison Mantondo is known for her expressive vocals and guitar skills. At age 8, she won Safa British School's Got Talent and has since performed in school events and cultural shows while excelling in academics. Kirstin Reyes, 12, is a singer, dancer, model, and actress who has earned titles from competitions such as We Are One and the International Designer League. She is currently preparing for both I-Sing World and WCOPA 2026. Zairah Alexine Ragat gained recognition after winning gold medals at WCOPA 2024 in Hollywood. She has performed in musical theater and fashion shows and was recently selected for the Mercedes-Benz Star Talent Audition. Dr. Rommel Sergio is a professor and musician who has released original songs and covers on Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Music. He starred in Kalayaan at Pag-ibig by Off Broadway UAE and will represent the UAE at both I-Sing World 2025 and WCOPA 2026. The UAE's participation underscores the country's commitment to the arts and its support for international cultural exchange.
