MANILA, Philippines - It was a shining moment for Steven Ocampo and Rowena Ann Gardo when they were named SM Little Stars 2011 during the contest’s grand finals held recently at the Centerstage of the SM Mall of Asia.
The cute, talented and adorable contestants representing SM City North EDSA, were chosen over 20 other finalists from all over the country, amazing the judges and the audience with their star quality. Steven wowed the audience with his rendition of May Bukas Pa, while Rowena’s dance medley by Jabbawockeez rocked the crowd. Steven and Rowena each won P75,000 and a four-year college scholarship from National University.
Kate Gellian Vinas of SM City Lipa was named first runner-up, while Kian Benz Bastian of SM City Iloilo received the second runner-up award. Luke James Alford, also of SM City Lipa, rounded up the magic circle as third runner-up. All winners received cash prizes; a trip to Xiamen, China for two; birthday packages at the Nido Fortified Science Discovery Center; gift certificates from Toy Kingdom and Storyland; and scholarships from SM Bowling, SM Ice Skating, the Center for Pop Music Philippines and Trumpets Playshop.
The criteria for judging included 20 percent, personality; 40 percent, star quality and 40 percent, talent. SM Little Star judges director May Cruz, Enrique Gil and Carlo Orosa had a difficult time choosing the winners.
During the event, SM Little Stars from China showcased their talents. They were Lin Xinxian and Lu Jie from SM Xiamen, Guo Junxian and Chen Hongkai of SM Jinjiag, and Deng Xinmio and Zheng Wenjie of SM Chengdu.
Maria Aragon, who became famous with her renditions of Lady Gaga’s songs, was another special guest in the program hosted by Andi Manzano.
Now on its fifth year and with over P2.5M in prizes, SM Little Stars 2011 is one of the many exciting events of the SM Supermalls.