Otakista - The Philippines Cosplay News Authority

First Quarter Overview (2013)

2013-03-31T22:20:00.001+08:00

There are tons of great happenings to start off the year for all of you Otaku fanatics. From the simple and phenomenal to the complex and controversial, the months from January to March were a definite standoff compared to last year.

Official Logo for World Cosplay Summit Philippines

Let's start the year with events like "The Cosplay Market" from CNPH (Cosplay Network Philippines) allowing ordinary people to buy Otaku-related items and have their chance to try and step into the world of Otaku culture. CNPH was not being active for these past months because they are currently having preparations for this year's "Fantasy Quest 3" which will be held this coming August.

While they are brewing something big, the guys over at the University of the Philippines AME (Anime - Manga Enthusiasts) went around with their annual event titled "UPAME (1UP)" at the World Trade Center. The long lines didn't stop them from making their event a success despite improvements must be made for them to be better for their next convention.

Official Logo of PINOYKON. A convention
mostly emphasizes on Filipino Komiks and sculptures

We don't ever forget about the Philippine Komiks scene and their own "PinoyKon" did not disappoint us. It was interesting being able to be part in a convention for Filipino comic artists and lovers. Not only you can get in touch with the people behind the scene but they were a nice bunch of people working together to make sure that it lives on.

For the gamers out there, the recently concluded Cherry Convention was the place to be. The never ending supply of Slurpee and free games for everyone kept the crowd happy. Add the appearance of Addison Kang, GM Adriano, and gaming lovers Nathan (AikawaKazu) and Lizbeth and fans were delighted to see how Cherry Credits entertained the fans.

Alodia Gosiengfiao (Center) with Dragon Nest Game Master (GM)
Adriano and Producer Addison Kang. Photo Credit : AnimePH

Speaking of Cosplay, Alodia's birthday bash during the event was more of a game changer for her and for all of us. That was a perfect place to celebrate her as a person and not as a "semi-religion" figure that most of her fans usually perceive. Alodia also performed one of her singles from her j-pop group, the Super Dolls. One week after her performance, they released the official music video entitled "Asia no Henshin" (Asian Transformation) while announcing the released dates for both Japan and the Philippines.

Cosplay.PH's Cosplay Ranking System (CRS)

If you think her performance was the end of it well think again. A lot of Cosplay breakthroughs were established. Local Cosplay company, Cosplay.ph stared to implement the Cosplay Ranking System (CRS) in order to promote responsible Cosplay and to promote healthy competition into Cosplay competitions. It had mixed reviews and comments throughout the community after they trademarked the term "Cosplay" into the country without any formal announcement.

For the final surprise, local Cosplay event organizer Anime Alliance managed to get accreditation from the World Cosplay Summit (WCS) Council. For now the country is currently under "Observer" status meaning we are not currently competing but are in constant evaluation for a possible official spot in next year's WCS.

What could be the next big thing by the end of the second quarter? Well we could only hope for the best. Some of the biggest events are coming in to bring you the best Cosplay and Otaku conventions. Ozine Fest, Pinoy Otaku Festival, and ToyCon are some to name a few. Will the WCS preliminaries be held within these next months?

We hope for the best and let's make sure we send to them that we can be world class. It's about damn time!

When You Take A Stand (What Otaku Communities Must Do)

2013-03-30T13:33:00.000+08:00

Cosplay organizations show their support for the community but do
they really help or they are creating more confusion rather than appreciation?

Back in the early years (the 2010-before years) when Cosplay was just a social hobby rather than a status symbol there are people that were making a point in the community. These guys make sure that everything runs in perfect harmony making sure that there was a balance between enjoyment of the public and the hobbyists to the crafts ethics and standards. Communities must understand that certain steps must be made and points have to be understood in order for them to become a respectable and dignified organization especially when it talks about the Cosplay and Otaku scene. Should we just care about spraying mists of glamour and brainwashing our supporters full of inconvenient half-truths in order for us to be accepted?

Well let's make a realization by looking ourselves and what we had contributed. People love to judge others by what they look on the outside rather than looking on their accomplishments. That is the case with these so-called "it groups". A group must have its own goals and plans. What do you want to show your reader? Is it to convey a message or to show the truth? Do you want to spread your hate to others or do you want to instruct them to be better with their craft while inspiring them to be responsible people? Some of you might be asking right now the same question when it comes to these groups. I have to admit that you seldom to see Cosplay organizations that act responsibly or professionally for the sake of earning fame and fortune. They tend to hitchhike on the current status of the community and by doing so they slowly devalue themselves and at the same time the whole community as a whole. A key ingredient in any successful organization is having their own ideas, intentions, and philosophies when it comes to the topic that they want to focus on. You can't basically do everything and handle everyone as if they were robots.

Another thing that they lack most is ethics. People work better in any situation if you manage them right. What you can do? Be on time. Learn to appreciate your clients (or friends if it's a meeting) for giving their valuable time. Always be polite to the other party even though your opinions don't match. There's no such thing as groups having the same ideas. Better ideas are being created when people think differently. Keep your deadlines on time and keep your promises to your friends and clients.

As for the Otaku community I always notice groups that are so very proud of themselves although they haven't achieved anything substantial to begin with. It's pride without basis. Arrogance can easily be made but do they have the right to just boast it loud that they seemed to make a change in the world? I think the ones that have made change are the ones who stay on the sidelines. The ones that are simply happy for it and confidently explaining them to others while they simply smile as they see the fruits of their own labor.

I know for sure that at this time when Cosplay is starting to be world class in the Philippines we must appreciate the value of these people. With the WCS (World Cosplay Summit) Council given us the accreditation let's do our part and make sure that we deserve it. If we don't, observers that are watching around might stop us again from reaching the "world-class" spot that we are dying to earn. For those reading this article they do exist. Be ready for them. -Chard

Anime Alliance Gets WCS Go Signal

2013-03-28T12:08:00.000+08:00

Official logo for this years World Cosplay Summit (WCS)

After more than three years of negotiation, local anime organizational body Anime Alliance Philippines grants accreditation by the World Cosplay Summit (WCS) Council to manage and organize the local and regional qualifiers here in the Philippines.

Ever since it's founding in 2006, WCS became the standard for cosplay competitions and the Philippines attempted a dozen more times to be a part of the said competition.After a couple of cosplay-related companies, otaku networks, and even private individuals failed to get accreditation from the prestigious council, Anime Alliance finally got the go signal to conduct the Philippine qualifiers within the next few months.

Anime Alliance's "Operation 23319" (W-C-S). Notice the
color scheme that was based from last years WCS logo

Started to a simple otaku fan page back in 2006, Anime Alliance now aids and organizes some of the biggest cosplay and otaku-related events in the country. Among those were the recently concluded, Cherry Convnetion as well as TOYCON and Visual Music Carnival. Initially kept under wraps with several pics and teasers from their fan page, it's a big step forward for Philippines cosplay especially when it's at the peak of pop culture right now.

Expect them releasing the final details regarding the regional and national qualifiers some time soon. The official press release will be released after we managed to the get their permission.

Super Dolls Releases First Album Video, "Asia no Henshin"

2013-03-25T22:17:00.001+08:00

Super Doll members: Fujaara (Left), Alodia Gosiengfiao (Center), & RiE (Right)

The promising otaku j-pop group, Super Dolls posted the official video for one of their singles of their upcoming album this May and June for the Philippines and Japan respectively.

The single named "Asia No Henshin" (Asian Transformation) promises their fans with their awesome singing and dancing skills. Not to mention their outfits and Alodia talking Japanese, fans should keep their eyes on these ladies.

The Super Dolls is lead by Alodia Gosiengfiao alongside voice actress Fujaara, and World Cosplay Summit (WCS) 2009 champion RiE.
Furthermore, Alodia performed a teaser of the music video a month earlier at Cherry Convention. Video courtesy of AnimePH

Cherry Convention 2013 Overview

2013-03-25T04:08:00.000+08:00

What happens when you put an online game developer and a gaming e-currency company into an event full of games, surprises and lot's of otaku goodness? Well you have stepped in into one of the year's most audacious and exiting gaming events as Cherry Credits and Shanda Games gave us the opportunity to cover the recently concluded "Cherry Convention" last March 10 - 11 at Megatrade Halls 1 & 2 of SM Megamall.

The sponsors roll for Cherry Convention. Very special mention to
ZEN Otaku Honbu,Tempest Films, Otakultura & GameHaunt

The two day event showcased the company's flagship game, Dragon Nest. Gamers and patrons to the game were given tons of freebies such as posters, ballers, game plushies and free refreshments. Seven Eleven provided free Slurpee during the event that kept people coming back for more. Also, one of the main attractions was the Cherry Credits "Speed Match" in which players had the opportunity to win free items such as gaming keyboards, mice, mouse pads, and Apple gadgets.

For the geeks and anime lovers, there was the cosplay concerto and cosplay competition for both days that featured different characters of Dragon Nest as well as an open category for interested cosplayers. With over 75,000 at stake there is no reason not to join. But nothing became more spectacular when the Philippines cosplay goddess, Alodia Gosiengfiao celebrated her birthday on-stage with her fans and supporters. Her cosplay of the games NPC quest planner, Irine suits her just well just like her sisters "Señora Santibañez" antics. She also performed one of their upcoming singles from her group, the Super Dolls as well as having her own version of the Harlem Shake craze that made her fans smile and giggle for her cuteness.

Irine (Alodia Gosiengfiao) gets frustrated with Señora Santibanez (Ashley Gosiengfiao).
Photo Credit : Allan Mendoza

It went crazy as the Philippine Qualifiers for the Dragon Nest World Championship happened alongside her birthday bash. Crowds gather up as the country's best team’s battle head-to-head in a KOF (King of Fighters) match. The crowd went nuts as one of the players managed to singlehandedly defeat an entire team. Now that's what you call a "one man army".

Teams battle out in one of their KOF (King Of Fighters) matches.

Gamers and Dragon Nest addicts were given an opportunity to play for free inside one of 200 gaming stations inside the convention area. Not only you can try to play DN for free but you can also try out their newly released game, Avatar Star. DN Producer Addison Kang and Game Master (GM) Adriano went into a Meet - The - Player Session and discussed about the latest updates around the Dragon Nest SEA. One of the main additions for the update was the Kali class and its Dancer and Screamer sub-classes.

AikawaKazu (Nathan) with his gamer girlfriend, Lyzbeth takes a picture
with one of our partner blogs. What a sweet couple they are :D

Patrons of the event will never forget the Stick-On Card event supervised by one of most known Dragon Nest SEA players AikawaKazu or in real life, Nathan. It was a bingo-style event in which by winning you can spin a wheel and have a chance to win DN merchandise. Prizes can be anything from keychains, t-shirts, posters, to limited edition USB flash drives and an Ipod Nano (from what I heard) as the grand prize. He also held an auction in which people with gold points (in-game premium credits) can win rare in-game items and limited edition plushies. At one particular moment, two in-game guilds were making team buys for a specific item at around 80,000G (equivalent of 4000php) which lasted more than 15 minutes. It's simply shows how dedicated and supportive these teams for their guilds and for the game publishers as well.

The LED monitor displays the game card for the Dragon Nest Stick-On Card game.
Notice the characters and random skills that were used on the card.

Speaking of dedicated, the event handled the attendees pretty well. The little delays within the opening hour of the event didn't stop people to come in and enjoy all the fun. To some the 250 peso ticket price was a bit discouraging but you can't disagree on the fact the customers did get what they deserved. Cosplayer fan boys were also complaining about the price but this is not a cosplay convention. This was a gaming convention built for the fans and by the fans. They clearly stated it from the beginning and they had kept their standards.

Lines for non-reserved patrons extends until the bottom floors as they start
preparations for Cherry Convention 2013. Notice the "Death Note" cosplayer at the right.

Kudos also to the unique layout of the convention floor. Putting two stages at opposing ends of the convention hall nearly eliminated all the common long lines, and bottlenecks that happen on every "Megatrade Hall" event.

People start to line up as the first day comes to an end. Waiting for the free plushies?

Overall, the event proved that the gamer cult following of online gaming still lives on the today in our country. What will the guys from Cherry Credits and Shanda Games will offer next? We're not quite sure but expect something bigger within the next half of this year. We can't tell you the details as of now but make sure to stick with these guys. They had a good start.

How Organizers Can Ruin The Fun

2013-02-06T23:55:00.000+08:00

Remember the times when there are people that disrupt the fun to a cosplay event? Otaku conventions are being more and more of a regular staple in pop culture society, and it seems that there are organizers who are pushing the direction backward. It's the same basic reason why we (by terms the regular "Juan" does not appreciate the same-old boring, overcrowded conventions these past two years. With the booming trend of geek ism staring to decline, there are things in the culture that needed to be fixed. Same goes to the organizers. If they keep treating conventions like "money bags," the entire image of the cosplay and anime community would be hanging in the balance or worse, would be rolling down the news drain.

A stage with no seats? Not worth the price.

1. Fun First, Moolah! Second

Don't blame us on it. Organizers need to make their bread and butter but fooling around and ripping other people's hard-earned cash for crappy conventions is not acceptable. If you analyze how many people went to a convention within the three-year period of the "cosplay boom," most people realized that they are not getting there money's worth. Are you willing to pay for overcrowded trade halls? Do we really get what we deserve and enjoy it at the same time? Organizers have the capability to make finest conventions if they stop thinking about the money and focus on keeping their regular patrons happy. It is best if they stop the competition and the indiscriminate back-stabbing of fellow organizers.

2. Giving a Mud-Slap To Fellow Organizers

When friendly competition is not enough to treat other organizers like trash, they will do the wrong thing in order to be one step ahead of the competition. This includes publishing black propaganda, brainwashing their regular customers and in some cases, intended rigging of the events themselves. Never in the history of Philippine cosplay that this went too deep among the cosplay groups in the country, especially this year when a simple mishap creates negative feedback that can ruin their reputation.

3. Not Sticking To Their Standards

Every convention has their individual set of organizers and with them includes their personal array of rules and regulations. Breaking your own rules just for satisfying the fans is not the precise way of promoting friendly competition. Cosplay competitions are not fast-food chains that have a "customer is right" policy. You can make sure that by adjusting to the participant's requests it will lead to problems later. Sometimes you need to have the balls to stay firm to what you believe in and to make sure that at the end of the day you make the decisions. That's the benefit of being an organizer. Why need to adjust?

4. Not Treating "You" The Right Way

Accepting con-goers into conventions is one thing. Making them happy is another. One of the biggest problems nowadays into conventions is the way organizers treat their guests as is they were "expendable assets." They tend to turn their roles around from responsible event organizers into escape artists when things go sour. Do we need to accept their stubborn practices? Can we allow them to treat us like we are just pawns or slaves into simply looting our money on crappy organizers being controlled by stupid, incompetent organizers? You and I are going to complain afterwards, and then their job is to ignore our rants and hoping time will let them improve. Not only, the investors and con-goers lose a lot in the process, but it creates confusion and creates boundaries for everyone involved.

5. Making Us Look "Dumb"

Speaking of ignorance, a lot of these so-called organizers have the bad habit of making the public feel like we are so illiterate that we can't do anything about it. They are real issues that turn cosplay into a seriously hobby-type joke for the rich who don't have a way of spending their money to the opportunists, hippies, and users who wanted to jump-start their way into fame. What do the organizers do? You can justify that these are wrong, but the evidence is right around every convention there is. From simple to the grandest, organizers have the responsibility to educate their fans, guests, and the general public about what is happening within the community, especially the ones who said, "they are making the difference."

So before you ask yourself if you are doing the right thing you should ask the organizers if they are doing their part to educate excellent cosplay ethics and showmanship. It's their great duty to educate and teach everyone what "good cosplay" is in order to create open-minded, and responsible citizens to everyone involved.

Pinoy Gaming Festival (PGF) Overview

2012-11-02T13:15:00.000+08:00

It's a blast to be at SMX Convention Center for the second year of Pinoy Gaming Festival (PGF). It held last on the 27-28 of October, and went to be the most definitive event when it comes to Philippine E-Sports scene.

Showing their colors for their well-respected teams and clans, supporters and the rest of the crowd we surrounded with freebies as well as competitions, showdowns and all sorts of events that will unleash the gamer inside of you. Its first day was more of a battle to get inside than to enjoy the place due to the massive crowds that attended the outside as well as the inside Hall 3 of SMX. Most of them complained about the lack of space inside. However, the event organizers listened to their fans and quickly opened Hall 4 to accommodate more people inside and to avoid the mishaps that happened in the first day.

Fans watch as the finals for the "Tekken Tag Tournament" category is under way.

Speaking of freebies, those who attended got what they paid for (or in this case, their 70Php). Attendees can get something from free snacks from Universal Robina to Monster energy drinks all the way up to DOTA 2 beta keys and gaming peripherals from Razer, Asus, and Cherry Credits. Everyone had their piece of the pie, and it's good to see that they are still doing it at such circumstances.

A lucky guy takes a picture with booth babes from the Monster Energy booth.
Free cans were also given to ticket holders.

With all the gaming goodness that went on, Cherry Credits added costume play into the mix. One of the main attractions of the event was the "Cherry Cosfiesta" cosplay competition. With 80 cosplayers joined in over three categories (Open, Shanda Games, & Chibi/Costripper Categories) the stage lit up well with their fine showcase of geek-ism and portrayal into one incredible competition. Add with the appearance of PBB Teen Edition Winner and costume player, Myrtle Gail Sarrosa and crowd went nuts.

Myrtle Gail saying hello to five randomly-picked people from the audience

Got bored into cosplay? Enthusiast's gamers were never dethroned with the crowning of champions in Mineski's M.P.G.L (Mineski Professional Gaming Leauge) Tournament as well as the Philippine Prelimenary comeback for WCS (World Cyber Games) and the Asian Cyber Games qualifiers.

Overall, the event was a great success. Sure it had its own quirks, especially the unpredictable amount of people went into day one but one thing that they did than any other is to recover from their mistakes and quickly fix the problems. That is something that some of the event teams/organizations in the country completely ignored around. One big pat in the back to the Mineskit Events Team (M.E.T), Rapture Gaming, & Cherry Credits for making it possible. Expect a bigger and better PGF next year because as of right now it's already in the works.

Confetti spreads through the crowd as it marks the end of the Cherry Cosfiesta competition.

How To Get Known Without Being a Fan Whore

2012-08-03T17:54:00.001+08:00

Cosplay is with no doubt the hottest trend in pinoy pop culture. We have seen teens dressing up in their favorite characters in conventions held almost weekly. With these happenings coming around the metro, each of these cosplayers has their own reasons to cosplay. At this moment wanted to meet new friends with the similar passion for anime culture. Others just wanted the exposure and recognition, and in some cases the fame that is currently being connected with pinoy cosplay and otaku fever. Everyone can enjoy the fanfare and appreciation with the right attitude and mindset. These tips will definitely help newcomers as well as the veterans so that you can be a well-respected entity without the need to act like a fan whore.

Cosplayer and singer Ayumi Kassinique

1. Don't HATE, EDUCATE!

As with every successful person in any industry, the ones who know how to educate their fans are the ones who get equal respect form their fans. A well-decorated cosplayer knows that by handling hate mail in a very positive matter can render good results. Learn how to educate your fan base and learn how to handle negative thoughts. If the community you're in is in the brink of collapse, then why leave it like that? Fix the issues and stand from the rest in the process.

2. "THANK YOU" Compensation is a NO-NO

Most people would have been in a position like this when they are starting out. Saving their hard-earned money for being accurate for their costumes and in the end they will only receive a pat in the back. Cosplay is an art and with any art we have the right to be rewarded for your work. Most corporations are paying huge amounts of money for good cosplay. So the next time when somebody wanted you for a birthday party it's not wrong to demand for payment. You don't want to be ripped off especially when your costume is bulky that being there is a waste of time, money, and energy.

3. Add your own PERSONAL TOUCH

Have a fan page? Then don't let just some admin rule over your fans. Be enthusiastic and try to answer their questions as much as you could. When in conventions, don't wear your costume first and be active in socializing with other people around you. It's free promotion, and it reduces the chance of someone being mad about you because of your own accidental ignorance. Furthermore, let them know that there are things that you need to take care of and avoid being like a ghost and disappear without a trace. It's creepy and can turn people off.

4. Balance ACCURACY and DECENCY

It's becoming an occurrence in Philippine cosplay where people are cosplaying something that they are not in their skin. It's not a good idea because it promotes a bad image and can instantly turn a hot female cosplayer into a fan whore. Never put yourself into a position that you can be insulted or ashamed of yourself. The best cosplayers around are the ones who carry their costumes with pride and comfort. It adds personality to the character being portrayed and good image in the cosplayer. If you just can't be sexy at that particular time, then simply don't cosplay. Most photographers will still notice you, and you can be sociable without being scrutinized by the public.

5. Keep Your Head Up

There will be a time that you want to quit and leave for good because of pressure and all the black propaganda spreading around you. Keep your mindset on the positive side. Relax, refocus, and make a plan to make your dreams into reality. Take the hindrances one at a time and never let people pull you down. Be with people that will motivate and help you along the way. You'll be glad you did.

Why We(Otakus) Like Fakes?

2012-08-02T04:19:00.004+08:00

Add caption

The growing number of businesses related to anime/otaku culture mushroomed in the number. We can all give big thanks to those who made it an industry so that everyone can commercialize their craft in a more civilized fashion. However, with this comes the appearance of tens if not hundreds of pirated DVDs as well as counterfeit anime figures and items. The public doesn't seem to mind, but it's a big hindrance, especially to those collectors. 87Y8CBXKSCD6

Based on local copyright laws, a copyright claim must first be issued in the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) before any kind of copyright lawsuit can be filed upon. This means that big anime companies cannot fight back when somebody manages to copy their work. It is a fact that some companies are outsourcing their animators locally to produce their work but do they have the time to file for a copyright claim? Are they willing to spend time and money to protect their work in a country where copyright enforcement is at a bare minimum?

Try to add that up with the rise of companies that specializes in selling these kinds of merchandise. No copyright claim means they don't need to file for a license to TOEI, BANDAI, and the others. For them, it reduces their expenses and more time to produce counterfeits. And it might surprise you that your "anime corner" stores in most places are promoting the selling of counterfeits.

The Bottom Line :

No license claims = Widespread selling of counterfeits

Cheapskate Otakus = More demand for fakes

Minimal Regulation = Fakes will stay

So what is it for the consumer? Well, you would probably be buying these because of the price am I right? Figuring that the price margin of an original is double or triple than a counterfeit, it's not a bad choice for starters. For the hardcore collectors, there might be a chance that one of your items is in fact a fake. Fake or not, it's the consumer's choice what to buy. If you hate fakes, then learn on how to spot them. For the typical cheapskate otaku, learn to accept it. The regular consumer can buy fakes for a starting collector then gradually fill the collection with real, genuine, merchandise.

So the biggest question would be .... does it matter?

(We are not in any form promoting otaku piracy. This post aims to explain its

proliferation with the intention of informing anyone it's problems and realizations)

Alodia & Slater for Pinoy "Gumiho" remake

2012-07-17T02:17:00.002+08:00

Word of the news started to spread as the Philippines Cosplay Goddess, Alodia Gosiengfiao gets the female lead for the Filipino remake of "My Friend is a Gumiho." Reported yesterday, Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Unlimited winner Slayer Young would also be supporting Alodia as his male lead role. 87Y8CBXKSCD6

Plans and details for the supposed remake are not confirmed at this point. A short clue is the statement from Slater's twitter account telling that he is currently working with Alodia for a project. It was deleted just a couple of hours after it got posted.

Known locally as "My Friend Is a Gumiho," would they be able to portray their characters that the pinoy fans will appreciate it just like the original one? Will Alodia and Slater keep up with the success of Lee Seung Ki (Dae Woong) and Shin Min Ah (Gumiho)? We can't hardly wait for their portrayal. I hope they won't keep us waiting for too long.

When Myrtle Paid The Price

2012-07-08T07:14:00.002+08:00

With Myrtle Gail Sarrosa bagging the title of "Big Winner" last night, there have been tons of positive and negative feedback surrounded not only the social network of cosplay but also outside into the minds of the typical Filipino. It seemed that most people thought that it was an orchestrated production which aims to capitalize cosplay in some form or another. Others believe that she earned it by the support of her fans and the total reinforcement from otaku lovers and cosplay enthusiasts who put her down in the pedestal last night. Whatever happened that night, there are indications to change and potential outcome in both otaku and cosplay communities will be affected by that sudden change of events. For all intents and purposes, let's reanalyze what that fine cosplayer from Iloilo did, and it's possible implications for the anime culture of our nation.

Did Myrtle made the right move?

Most cosplay aficionados were intrigued if not frightened by it. When she started to enter the house almost three months ago, the whole community was infused with one goal. To show that Philippine cosplay can put us in the global scale. That slowly changed when her personality started to depict signs of immorality, lack of trust, and in some cases, quick infatuation. People started to know the housemates better and to the normal, non-otaku pinoy, her actions contradicted what she spoke inside the house.

Realizing that it started the disorganization of unity for the community. For the normal ones, they shifted their interest into something that they can sensibly relate more of. Parents, especially their elder siblings realized that this year's teen version of Pinoy Big Brother felt like it was more of a stand-up comedy show than a sensible, moral themed reality show. People started to question the authenticity of the program if it was true to from or just a large setup.

In a show that aims to educate the youth on the modern issues of society, this season failed to achieve that. What is the price for doing that mistake? It accidentally misguided the media to pay attention into otaku and anime culture using her as a "influential mascot" to relate with the people's emotions without really fixing the issues. Realizing that the problems were only half-fixed in the end causes the public to make quite a stir. It's the big mistake that the cosplay community purely ignored until the end.

So it's time to tackle the biggest question of all. Does Myrtle deserve the title of "Big Winner"? If you put in a normal con-goer perspective, her situation is really similar to what Alodia, Ashley, and all the rest of the cosplayer celebrities faced in the past. We should blame the networks that treated cosplayers as "residual exposure." It creates more problems for the community to fix, but I know that by focusing on educating everyone about our culture, we can hinder the spread of this "media fall flop" into a more manageable level.

We need to remove our interest for fame and free exposure. Take the time to balance arrogance and fun and influence people to think of cosplay as a more alternative habit than smoking and drinking. The community must not blame a single individual for putting a hole on our world. We should prove them that they are wrong and make things right for the future of otaku culture in the country.

Stop Going To Cons!

2012-06-25T16:10:00.000+08:00

Everyday we see conventions popping out of every corner of the country ranging from personal to glamorous events. As with every convention, there are things that people don't realize with going to places like this, and it gets a bit troublesome for our expectations are only being comprehended by lack or organization from their part and at the same time plenty of guys who wanted to get what they paid for. In the growing community of otaku-related businesses this is the time that we must refocus from our priorities. This is the time that we should treat our clients, the people, the definite respect and appreciation that they reserve. We are being shadowed by the fan-fare, stardom, and glamour of celebrities and models in every corner.

People love cosplay especially when it is properly organized

Nevertheless, for how they will be able to hear us. You ask? Then stop going to conventions. It's a weird irony really. Allow me to explain why.

More Crappy Cons

Nowadays, there are tons and tons of conventions which the primary motive is to loot money from otaku goers and regular people like you and me. Should we deserve much of this? We usually argue that their places are too crowded. The stages are also small and there are more photographers in the vicinity treating the place as if it was one big studio party. And the worst part if they are creating another next year the only thing organizers do is to put a cosplay icon or celebrity, and that was it.

The Spirit Was Lost

From the start of Philippine Otaku culture there will always be the hardcore fans who appreciate it because of their sense of happiness. Notice most of the time people go to conventions to socialize. From my perspective, it seems that the rise of Philippine cosplay has somewhat overshadowed the true purpose of conventions. For every con-goer, it can anything from meeting up with friends to buying merchandise. On the other hand, photographers wanted to go to conventions to practice their skills (and trying to pick up on them). What's the bad part? There are tons of pickpockets, stalkers, and perverts lurking at every corner.

Making Blame To People Who Are Doing Their Job Right

The biggest hiccup right now is blaming people for making the community more like a trash bin full of rejects than appraising them for all of their hard work and dedication. Blame a certain cosplayer for her celebrity status? You should all thank him/her for pushing our culture mainstream. Is the security personnel being a pain in the back? Thank them for keeping us safe and sound. Cosplayers treating the place like they have it? That's a no-no. If cosplayers, otaku's, and photographers would act decent and have manners, then the regular problems with the organizers and staff would never happen.

I Cosplay To Be Famous

This is really getting boring but it seems most cosplayers have the misinterpretation when it comes to this line?Do they really mean it or it something more like "I cosplay so that I can be a celebrity like *Name of Cosplayer Here*" There are cosplayers that are making a living trough the trade and never did they wanted to get attention from other people. As for the females, I suggest you get into cosplay not because your good-looking and mostly otakus are males but to entertain everyone. I had always seen people get harassed in conventions for the most stupid reasons. Alongside those, males should know the difference between decency and have complete understanding when it comes to anime culture.

We Are Gold!

Since organizers are complete idiots when it comes to satisfying out taste, we have control. We are the ones who save our hard-earned cash to go to conventions. For us, they won't be making business. One thing that separates the best from the worst conventions is how they treat their patrons. I'm going to be honest with you but seems like they don't give a damn about what we want. If they had just listened for once they wouldn't have any problems facing the reality that conventions are getting too crowded and disorganized. Think of us like customers. We always get what we want.

It looks harsh at first, but if you think deeply it just feels right. Take a break from conventions and show to them that we have the power and control into what the future of Philippine Anime should be. At least once or twice a month would be great. If the scene is getting repetitive why not take a break and do something that's highly productive. It would definitely help you in the long run.

(Unheard Reasons) Why Go To TOYCON?

2012-06-13T04:42:00.000+08:00

The biggest toy and otaku convention comes near. Most of you people would be going to see your favorite cosplay idols as with any other hardcore con-goer would do. In the midst of cosplay popularity, let us give you an ice breaker. Come to think of it, there are a million things to do in TOYCON 2012 this year that some of you never knew or perhaps interested the slightest. So without further delay, let us give you the other side that make this year's TOYCON a whole lot fun.

Cosplay Video Documentary

The country's famous cosplay sisters, Alodia & Ashley Gosiengfiao will be having a shooting for their upcoming video documentary alongside the usual photo and booth singing sessions. I hope their booth won't be jam-packed with fans as their sessions were cut short last year due to the fanfare. You can also reserve your print as early as possible by checking out their official Facebook fan pages.

Toy Design Contest

Why stop by just collecting toys? Start turning yours into reality. The toy design contest is one of the unique competitions only being held in TOYCON. This is the time where you can check their designs as well as check the concepts of our fellow Filipino toy designers. Maybe you can join the independent toy caravan next year. This also serves great purpose as they give tribute to all the local toy manufacturers and designers.

5th Philippine Game Girl

It launched five years ago. The game girl cosplay category was usually the "cosplay" portion of the entire event. Now with the addition of individual and group cosplay, this category is still an important part of any TOYCON event. Where would you be able to find the best female gamers fulfilling the fantasies of their male counterparts? There was also the now removed "Booth Babe" category.It's the same concept but in the end, the game girl category survived. Who will be this year's gamer girl?

Amped Fest!

Get your gaming gear on stand-by as local game publisher AMPED will be bringing something new to the table for this year. Tired of the usual prizes? How about being a guest Game Manager (GM) for one whole month? The chosen victors will receive that alongside the 5000 peso cash prize. I know this is something every otaku gamer will never miss. Check the details (HERE)

Avoiding Scam Sellers

2012-06-07T15:31:00.000+08:00

With so many new people coming into the cosplay hobby, and an upswing in fraudulent listings and shady sellers, I felt compelled to make a guide on how to be a smart buyer. Buying smart and avoiding scams is a big part of enjoying cosplay. No one wants to waste money and feel swindled when trying to create the look of a character you love. I’ve also included a list of wig sellers I’ve bought from, and give you an honest review of each- the good and the bad.

Aside from the obvious checking of feedback when available, here are some tips to buying from cosplay sellers online:

1.Buy from sellers that use mannequins to show products, not cosplayers. There are sellers all over the web stealing photos from cosplay sites and using them for product shots. Don’t assume the person wearing that wig or costume is modeling for a store. Odds are, they are unknowingly being used to sell goods that aren’t nice enough looking for a seller to want to show you the real thing you’d be buying. Some sellers will have galleries where you can view photos submitted by happy buyers, but reputable sellers do not use cosplayers for their actual product listings. Avoiding sellers that use cosplay photos instead of products on mannequins in product listings is a big must. You want to see exactly what you are getting.

2.Look for photo consistency. Are all the photos shot on the same mannequin? Is the lighting the same in all the photos across their entire stock line? If you search for that same wig or costume, do other sellers have the SAME product shots? If you can easily find other sellers using the same pictures, it’s a bad sign. It probably means those sellers are all using photos of someone else’s products. Often, sellers use photos from places like Cospatio because the costumes look spot on. Those costumes cost hundreds of dollars, have custom made trims and details, and have much higher quality control than most other ready made cosplay. They aren’t what you’ll get for $60 on ebay, so be aware of this practice.

3.Don’t trust watermarks. Just because a picture has a seller’s store name on it, doesn’t mean it is a legitimate product shot. Sellers will watermark over photos they have stolen, and do it all the time- sometimes right over other seller’s watermarks who’ve stolen the photo too! Often they will remove other watermarks by cropping out a site’s credit or a photographer’s mark or blur it. If it looks like they’ve blurred out or cropped out someone else’s watermark, it’s a bad sign. No seller needs to do that on a photo they’ve shot of their own product. It’s a big red flag.

4.Be skeptical. Do research. Be logical about ‘good deals’. Some deals are too good. If it’s a complicated costume or a styled wig, it won’t be sold for cheap. If one seller is selling something for much, much less than other sellers, be warry. Be rational and don’t just buy based on the cheapest price. Quality is directly related to price, no matter where you buy it from. That said, you can still find some reasonably good deals and not be scammed if you scrutinize and use caution.

On a personal note, I’ve had a number of sellers use my photos without permission to sell wigs and costumes. If you ever see a seller using my photos, do not trust that seller. I never give anyone the okay to use my cosplay to sell costumes or wigs. I’ve sewn my costumes myself and styled the wigs on my own, so whatever it is that they are selling, it isn’t going to be what I’ve made. The same can be said for so many other cosplayers who’s hard work as been ripped off to sell questionable goods to unsuspecting buyers. None of us want to see people get scammed, and it’s unpleasant when someone uses your likeness to pull the wool over someone’s eyes. It’s like being an unwilling accomplice in a crime :(

(This is a repost with permission from Maridah's Cosplay page. Be sure to stop by her website. (http://www.maridah.com/)

Windows Snipping Tool

2012-06-06T00:45:00.000+08:00

Want to take screenshots as quick as possible? Why use the old copy-paste-over-paint method? Use one that is more flexible. What is the best part? It's free!

Windows Snipping Tool is basically a screenshot capture application included into Vista and Windows 7. From capturing pictures for promotion (and in some cases, blackmailing), this tool can take the job that most paid applications can't.

Check it out by typing "Snipping Tool" in the search box in the start menu.

Cosplay.PH website is now at "V2.0"

2012-06-04T23:23:00.001+08:00

The country's premier cosplay website is now under a fresh coat of paint as the Cosplay.PH website is now under a new layout.

New layout for Cosplay.PH.
Note that this is still not final and may change at any given time

Via their official fan page, two weeks ago, they stated that they would be revamping the whole website. Users have been reminded to backup all of their profiles and pictures for the upcoming days to overhaul their entire system and provide them with a better and more improved website for Filipino otaku's.

Image posted during the revamp last May

With the new release of the website, many people have been asking about the sudden change. As you notice in the first picture, the administrators somewhat removed the "social-networking" capabilities of the site. It shifted from a social cosplay network to more of a website. We still have no confirmation regarding the matter, and we hope they publish a statement as soon as possible.

For those people that are interested to compare them both, the old website is still accessible (HERE). As of now they haven't finalized the layout but rest assured it will change without prior notice.

The old website layout of Cosplay.Ph

The Evolution Of A Cosplay Goddess

2012-06-03T21:47:00.000+08:00

With the largest and greatest anime convention in the country draws near, let's check back to one of the biggest reasons why anyone would go to TOYCON. For those who don't know, Alodia Gosiengfiao started to be a guest judge for it was in 2008. It went to be her last afterwards as she became a regular staple. In order learn more about her greatness today, let's spin the time backwards into memory lane.

Alodia Gosiengfiao from being a girl to a woman. Via her offical "Alodia Gosiengfiao" facebook page.

What do you think guys? Leave a comment below and share this out using our social bookmarker at the bottom left of the page. WSCTB4RNGSSE

Professional Tips for Cosplay Organizers

2012-05-30T14:29:00.000+08:00

They are an important staple in conventions. Sometimes they might look like your run-of-the-mill grunt with a t-shirt and jeans on. Some might be cosplaying their characters and to some they might be even promoters and floor directors. Cosplay organizers are abundant in the community. Whether you are long seasoned veteran or an average guy who is willing to put the resources to create a cosplay convention it’s always a "no-brainier" to be professional in every aspect to the process. These basic tips will help ease the pressures and obstacles in the way from the conceptualization until the egress of any cosplay/anime-related event.

A good cosplay organizer can handle this kind of pressure.

1. Be Punctual

As Filipinos we are always familiar with the term “Filipino Time." We get late in an important meeting or negotiation, and it ends up as an excuse. This will suffice when it’s your own fellow countrymen but what about the foreign investors? Being punctual and in a timely manner is absolutely a requirement. It creates a persona of being professional, and at the same time it shows to the clients that you are taking the deal seriously in a business-like fashion.

When dealing with plenty of clients, exhibitors, sponsors, or even fellow cosplayers and organizers its best that you keep their tabs in them at all times regarding updates. One noticeable thing that lacks in cosplay conventions is the lack of communication between the event organizers, marshalls, and exhibitors. It’s always a recipe for disaster and makes things harder to tackle when somebody turns into a grumpy mood. These aspects shall include:

* Event Schedules

* Contracts and X-Deals

* Ingress and Egress period

* Networking

What’s the allotted time you ask? Well, it really depends on the location, but we usually have at least a thirty (30) minute allowance time to accommodate our clients, especially when they are from another city or province. Furthermore, contact your clients immediately if you are going to be late. You don’t want to look like a douchebag when they need you the most.

2. Open Communication IS A MUST

It’s always a rule of thumb to get their contact number either from their head or a representative to make things a little easier. Never get deterred when they ignore your call, instead leave a message regarding the matter. We are human beings after all, and we have our own personal issues to tackle. You never know that the person you are calling might be having a “bathroom break." The only way that you push the conversation is when it’s really important, and they are going to be affected by the changes. Time is your worst enemy in every event, and it’s an organizer's job to make sure that you meet the deadline.

3. Listen First, Act Later

An important tip to remember is when in meetings and negotiations, always listen to them first before making a statement on the matter. The biggest difference between those who lead and that who follow is their open-mindedness. You get less obstruction from the other party in the process. In the contrast, never put yourself in a position that you can’t justify your own opinions and goals. You can’t simply say yes to everything they had to say.

Furthermore, when the negotiations are getting tougher chances are they are getting too personal. When this happens always state to them that “it’s just business." One major hiccup on cosplay negotiations is when they take it to a more personal approach. You need to break some eggs to make that omelet. Learn how to separate business and personal intentions in negotiations. The only time that you need to back out from the deal is when you understood the explanation and in the end, it still doesn’t work.

4. You are the BOSS!

Remember the time when you respect and idolized your father because he has the authority over things about the house? Always have the final say in any decision. At the same time, be flexible at start to believe in your people and staff. There’s no negative response to a leader who trusts their followers. Be competent and teach them a trick or two in the long run.

With the sense of authority is the bigger sense of responsibility for all aspects of the convention. Always keep tabs with people and socialize them so that you can fix the problem as soon as possible. When it gets tough, take a break and refocus. You never want to see a problematic organizer, especially when they disappear due to the pressure.

If you are the kind of guy who likes to follow orders, the only thing you must do is to try to accomplish the task at hand. You could “fake it until you make it”. It helps when you have a partner ready to back you up once in a while. Think of him/her as your “second in command." It’s a good way of enjoying work and learning in the long run.

5. Never Stop Improving

Consistency can be a big factor in any cosplay organizer’s portfolio. If you can provide the same effect you are giving in every convention, you will definitely get some positive feedback. Never think of criticisms as a way of putting yourself down. It’s a good way of making plans and fixing what are the problems later. Make a group discussion afterwards and analyze the problems at hand so that you can fix the issues as soon as you can create the next one. Find new concepts and ideas and mix them up to create interesting events.

And remember that in the end, it’s the people who are willing to improve themselves are the ones who are ready to accept the rewards. It’s a combination of hard-work, creativity, and a dream that one-day things will be better. And this dream will fuel your inspirations in every aspect of your life.

Same Repetitive Cosplay Jokes

2012-05-08T10:04:00.000+08:00

You see it anywhere you go. For those who remembered the old times when people just have fun for what they want and not being ridiculed for how perfect it is. I wonder if it’s because of the increase of fans or the monopolization of the cosplay scene that makes people negatively criticize it. Yes, it’s still an art form on its own but compared to our other cosplay brothers and sisters in different countries. We are walking one step backwards upon our goal.

Cosplay Goddess "Alodia Gosiengfiao" on a feed site

I still remember when Alodia was a friendly, geeky, otaku. Remembering the days where she personally answers her friends and fans on social media sites. She was a “fan” just like the rest of the newcomers in the community then. I can still say back when she, and her sister Ashley wasn’t “picky” when it comes to eating food off the streets. The same-old times indeed and I personally miss that. Most of her supporters would not at any time be able to feel what I have experienced and will never be. I can’t blame progress if the price for it was freedom on their part. They have their own sacrifices, and I gave them the credit at the same time the benefit of the doubt.

And what about these people stating that they are quitting for good? Will it ever change for the better? I suggest people; especially pinoy cosplayers should always keep their word. That is one of the things why the local populace treats us like a bunch of child minded individuals. We are the ones who creating this image of backstabbing, poor work ethics, and lack of professionalism. Some cosplayers stated that they were leaving because of stubborn reasons. One example is the ever popular “because of *name of famous cosplayer here*”. No offense guys but in the real-world justifications based of people’s success is a recipe for humiliation. Most otakus don’t know how to justify what is wrong and right when it comes to cosplay because in the first place, they are thinking of the merchandise. I have to admit as of this day it still does.

And it gets even worse when cosplay gets infused with the local entertainment section, especially television. That’s the price we get when we use the easiest tactic to get the maximum exposure we need to achieve. That’s why I gave them the doubt. Not only has it affected the pioneers of the cosplay scene but also the new ones. And what’s the worst thing? The ones who created this mess in the first place are the ones who are slowly disappearing from the scene. They created this mess in the first place. Why we need to suffer from it? I say we should we fix this problem and accomplished the only thing that the old guys never did. Fixing the problems that they left behind and build a more stable community for all of us.

Looks like in the end, it’s about not only about the past that we need to focus on. Now it’s the time that we start to discipline ourselves. If it’s our attitude toward cosplay that will stab us, it’s the mass media for sure. I always put the term “professionalism” into play. It may seem repetitive but in the long run it’s what keeps the best from the mediocre ones. We all have a dream, but I still believe that one-day things will change. It’s not that bad if you know the correct mentality to do things right. Never be deterred by the negative side effects of cosplay tribalism and it’s commercialization. It serves as a challenge to all of us.

Common Sense Tips (For Cosplayers)

2012-04-25T13:56:00.001+08:00

With the joy and entertainment, every cosplayer faces something new to the table nowadays. It’s not that much to realize how an easy dose of “common sense” can help a long way. A simple application of these tips would definitely improve not only your cosplay but also personally improve your life. With all intents and purposes, this guide will describe basic scenarios in events as well of relating them to personal habits. Are you being affected by it? If yes, then we suggest you start reading and start acting upon it.

Familiar with this?

1.“Learn How To Say No” – if you’re in a hurry and being photo bombed by more like a dozen photographers once in a while you need to let them know. It’s far better than just being a ninja and move away from the crowd. People will respect you for it, especially when you need to have a bathroom break. Just like every human being in the world we all have the right to privacy once in a while. To some it’s a bit annoying but for cosplayers, it’s always a right to say no.

2.”Sidewalks Are For People” – ever find in a situation that a security guard would tell you to stay somewhere else? It’s a common occurrence in malls especially when the hallways are too narrow to walk alongside. Think of hallways as sidewalks. You can’t simply park a car into a sidewalk since people tend to walk to onto it. It’s much safer than walking on the street right? So the next time you try to cram yourself and your cosplay buddies into a corner of a hallway expect the crowdedness and the repetitive nagging of the mall’s security staff. They’re just doing their job in the first place.

3.”There’s always more than one way” – I remember back then when people tend to get jam packed inside comfort rooms at the top floor of SM Megamall due to location is very nearby the Megatrade Hall. If you think the other way around, there are tons of comfort rooms below where you can dress up and fix yourself with utmost convenience. The best about it is you people would definitely look upon you with their foremost interest. And remember to dress up as fast as you can. That’s why they are called comfort rooms right? Look best and make others relieve their tension.

4.”Act! Don’t React” – plenty of people mean plenty of problems. If any problem occurs during your stay, inside conventions, always act upon it. Are you being harassed by other cosplayers? Say it! Are you a female cosplayer and was sexually harassed by someone? Then send everyone a message by slapping the guy in the face. Just reacting to it like posting Facebook's statuses about what happened doesn’t help anyway. Don’t even try to share your experiences if it’s only for the sake of sharing it. It simply degrades your value as a person. There will always be the proper authorities to explain the situation.

5.”Cosplay is COSTUME PLAY” – most people don’t get the meaning of cosplay. Simply wearing a costume from a famous character isn’t enough. Only models do that kind of thing. You need to play your part and act upon it. Don’t just be a walking wall flower taking pictures with the weirdest of photographers around. If the character you’re portraying is a bit weird in nature, then act dumb like hell at some point. Most con-goers get the idea.

So there you go everyone. We hope that you would put these basic tips into good use. And remember the most important rule in cosplay. “Have Fun!”

The Community Wants Us Out

2012-04-01T02:46:00.000+08:00

(This is a personal message from the overall team. This is not for the faint hearted. Proceed if you want the truth)

One year passed, and it seems like it was yesterday. Started from just a simple meet-up, we become the first and only cosplay news organization in the country. We covered at every place and every date any organizer can arrange inside and outside the metro. We did the unthinkable. From the personalized to the extravagant, we did what the ideas of the organizers have to offer. We accomplished what some other groups can only have dreamed of and will probably be a mere fantasy. For over a year we battled the pressures, hindrances, and social acceptance of us in the community. We are constantly fighting the one thing that binds all members into one big family. The dream that every cosplayer would be in a place of equal respect and the pure act of social transparency inside and outside the convention halls. We did our best as of now, but it seems it was not enough.

We could still remember back when we're at our infancy that it would come into great things. That it would become bigger and more socially accepted as a new art form. Sometimes we still ask the questions ourselves. “Did it really become bigger?” alternatively, in our honest terms “Did it became worse than we expected it to be?" Personally, we don’t know but one thing is obvious from the twelve months that we are around. That once in a while they need to get the right respect that they deserve.

If you remember the past, cosplayers enjoy this hobby. For some they managed to turn it into a profession. The only problem is their narrow-minded approach into making events. If we could still remember three years ago, conventions are organized and controlled in a timely and professional manner. It’s all about making “eyeballs” nowadays with huge disregard to both cosplayers and con-goers alike. No wonder why conventions are packed from mall to mall.

One thing that we are so proud of with the change is the businesses that live around cosplay. They would be spending dimes on rocks if that boom never happened. Some establishments are now acting as sponsors to certain events. They get the attention that they wanted when they started doing business.

One thing that pushes back from doing our job right is the amount of information that we know. Some people in the community feared that by sharing what we know we could cripple them for good. Even some are willing to pay us just to shut down our operation. To us that is one thing. They thought that we wanted to take over and shut the booming season of cosplay for good. Actually, we are doing what we believe is right. To let them know what must be done so that we could progress faster. Unlike the slow progress that they had for almost a decade, we hope that by sharing what we know everybody can make a change.

What is that change? We want to move things forward. Most in the community wanted the good days of cosplay. Believe it or not we do agree. There are some elements back then that makes it the best times but let’s not forget that we must move on. They don’t need the past instead they need to plan for the future. The future lies in every cosplay entity inside and outside the zone. We cannot be held by the past. What we can do is learn from the lessons that we have fought and use them today so that soon every cosplayer will experience the same fun and acceptance as with every cosplayer in the past.

Cosplay is one thing. Making them is another. In the short span that we have, it’s some of the things that any organizer must know. Cosplay is neither a fashion show nor a rock concert. It’s not a typical weekend event in some mall’s event center also. We have learned from helping people from cosplay events. What’s the conclusion? We need cosplay organizers. Not some floor director from some fashion show or your weekend guy at the club. Cosplayers turned organizers who are being paid to make conventions more appealing and acceptable to the masses. I wish they would concentrate more on making the customers happier than making a buck from each of us from such poorly organized events.

We have cosplayers indeed, but we need something more. Idols are one thing, but we need to put professionalism into our portfolio. Remember the day when conventions and groups are so well-organized and well behaved? We bet you can’t experience that with a grain of salt nowadays. And the infamous bashing and showing who the finest group in the community makes it a lot more badly than we could possibly know. It’s one of the greatest hiccups in cosplay as of right now, and we did our finest to understand why. The biggest reason we don’t because they are oblivious to the fact that it’s greatness is its own catalyst for disaster.

As for us we have been under constant pressure from all forms of harassment from them. From simple threats and accusations, we have accepted them happily as a challenge. We take one nudge to the head; we just prove them ten times more. Even corporate entities want to sell us out, but we never believed in covering the truth. Some cosplay groups thought that we were pawns pretending to be reporters but in fact, operating under espionage and conspiracy. It’s seemed that in the end they rather believe in other people's murmurs than even asking us directly. It is such a cowardly way of showing incompetence to our line of work, and we take it as a huge insult.

For the people that believed us, thank you. We could have never reached this far without your full support and your dose for the truth. We did everything we could to understand the entire goings inside and outside. Thanks for the spending sprees and all the budget cuts that we did so that we can go to conventions and feed you guys with information around the Philippine cosplay scene. We have kept our word, but it seems they want us out. We tried to hide it but in the end it’s about time that you learn the truth. We don’t know how long would be staying around with you guys but one thing are for sure. We will always be in the community as long as we can hold out. Only when nobody listens to our stories that we shall quit and forever disappear as time passes on and things are at its worst.

It might be the last. We hope we could hold out for much longer.

Goodbye 2011 (Annual Review)

2012-03-14T13:49:00.000+08:00

It’s been a good year for all of us. We experienced the best and possibly the year when the Otaku community becomes larger than we have ever imagined. This is what the forerunners and innovators of the trend wanted, and they manage to achieve a year of pride, popularity and acceptance. It not only affects those businessmen, cosplayers, and the mass media, but also it affected us in a way that we could not predict when we first started doing this in the first place.

Alodia Gosiengfiao's rection when her co-star, Grace
announced that she is still single. Taken at TOYCON 2011.

The year was 2011. What could have been the “GOLDEN YEAR” of cosplay. Cosplayers started to multiply in size and the variety. For related businesses, they managed to have the exposure that they need to thrive on themselves from their foxholes. The appearance of cosplay-related online shops as well as the establishment of the first maid café in the country indicated that it was a pronounced sign of great things to come.

Alongside the businesses is the formal (and sometimes hurried) establishment of organizations to provide related services and information for otakus, cosplayers, and anime lovers alike. The local media started to accept us and realized they could use it to their advantage. As a result, it has become more of a fan-based obsession similar to celebrities and artists. That became into reality when the Philippines “Cosplay Idol” Alodia Gosiengfiao signed a contract with a local television network. From them on, more people used cosplay as another form of gaining reputation, turning the scene more of an entertainment-related activity.

"You can't hit me" - A superman cosplayer being arrested by the members
of the Resident Evil cosplay group. Taken at COSPLAY MANIA 2011

As for the events themselves, they mushroomed into more of a weekly fan affair. Unlike the quarterly conventions that every otaku old-timer knew from the last half decade, it evolved into a monthly tribute to anime, manga, and for all intents and purposes, the local cosplay scene. A new breed of organizers were created to tackle the massive supply and demand for cosplay to turn into a standard staple in Philippine Society. The biggest malls in the country allow them to create not only larger events but also events of variety, packing all the anime-related activities into one big festival.

Front stage of the recently concluded Level Up Live 2011 (LULIVE).
Notice the dual projector screens and the LED monitor at the center stafge.

Everyone around the trend started to create conventions. From the big department stores and shopping malls to universities, high schools, and regional campuses, and even extravagant event locations, every otaku is creating events like it was their bread and butter. Another worth mentioning is the cosplay photography business. The simple photo-ops and major product deals in print, television, and web media ensures its position to the masses. The good thing about it is that these photographers proved that you can make cosplay photography into a thriving business, many of which are now working internationally.

Fenbrook Gardens in Pasay were Fantasy Quest was held.

With all the greatness of last year were its consequences. Standard places where cosplay conventions usually held were now deemed “unacceptable” by the public due to the massive amounts of people entering them. Lack of organization by the organizers is also become a huge burden not only for their sponsors and exhibitors but also to the con-goers and cosplayers themselves. Respect among cosplay groups and idols themselves were the largest issue. Alongside these were the issues regarding cosplayer femininity as well as the fan based bash-offs and the greatest factor of them all, COSPLAY TRIBALISM. Not to mention the hard part of filtering the loyalists from the opportunists and the lack of ethics on cosplayers, con-goers, and photographers alike.

The stars of COSPLAY NATION as they being "photobombed"
by photographers.Taken at the first day of TOYCON 2011

In the end, it all depends on us know to make the change. In our experience last year, we felt that there was something lacking among all of these. The LACK OF DIRECTION for what the community wanted to proceed on. All of them have something that they want to keep in exchange of fame and control. We definitely understood them but that tactic was so-so 2008. This is the decade that we must act upon. If we don’t then the community that we managed to grow and cherished will be its stepping stone to its own separation.

As part of this community, we will uphold the values that stood us from the rest of the attention seekers; the equity, equality, and transparency that will not at any time be deterred by the times. We never lied to our viewers about our intention to make a living out of what we do but that is for serving you (the one who is reading this post) the latest and the most interesting writings about the Philippine’s cosplay scene. We personally thank all of you for the greatest support that you are giving us. Rest assumed it will be our fuel to continue infusing journalism and cosplay into our hearts.

We have reached the TOP OF THE PEAK; it’s about time we make the change.

Alodia (Before & After)

2011-12-04T22:22:00.001+08:00

It's good to see you all cosplay aficionados again. Were bringing back the picture database with another nostalgic picture. As you can see the lady that we call now as "Cosplay Goddess" wasn't really a goddess

back then.

Alodia Gosiengfiao before and after

Doe's this look familiar? Share your thoughts and leave a comment below.

Pasko Mechaniko! (Pasko Magnifico)

2011-12-02T14:50:00.001+08:00

(Check our set of pictures from this event HERE)

The Venice Plaza at night

Most of you guys would probably be sleeping or getting ready for school but these guys are different. What if you put the best of the best mecha cosplayers in one great setting? The Otakuzine Cosplay competition was held last November 29 at the Venice Plaza Grounds in McKinley Hill, Taguig as part of the range of all-week activities of the "Pasko Magnifico" celebration.

Pre-registration started at two in the afternoon.With lots of performances from the chorale and other bands to spice up the place, the cosplayers started to arrive in preparation for the competition proper.

One cosplay contestant's costume.
Did you guys event imagine how heavy these are?

With the arrival of the cosplayers comes their big and bulky storage bags but the organizers where ready with this situation.They provided areas to leave their costumes while they wait for the others. We never thought that there would be non-mecha cosplayers coming but it's also coincidence that this would turn up to be a "MECHA" only competition. The breezy clouds and it's misty rain splatters didn't stop the cosplayers from staying outside. We think that we just got lucky afterwards.

The skies weren't cooperating but we all got lucky

It was six in the evening when the cosplay proper started. It's was a the "Clash of the MECHA". From the new guys to the veterans like Pablo Bairan, Guy Singzon, and RB Cheng, the competition fired up and the crowd and started to gather around them. Taking pictures and meeting with their childhood fantasies from anime series like Transformers, Gundam, and Zoids. The place became nostalgic as the night showers the area with lights and christmas ornaments.

After the competition was the cosplay parade around the entire plaze. Many people started to take pictures and chit-chat with their fellow cosplayers. The winners were announced at 7pm. Third placer is Bolen Lareza while 2nd is Abraham Cruz and the champion is Rb Cheng cosplaying his signature character from the Zoids series. When will be the next MECHA BATTLE take place? Keep your eyes and ears on us and stay tune for more updates.

Winners (from Left to Right):
RB Cheng (1st), Abraham Cruz (2nd), Bolen Lareza (3rd)

Pinoy Gaming Festival 2011

2011-10-27T01:24:00.000+08:00

The philippines largest gaming tournament is on schedule. With more than Php150,000 worth of prizes at stake and a spot for being the Philippine's representative for the World Cyber Games (WCG), the Pinoy Gaming Festival is one event you shouldn't miss for those cyber gaming fanatics. This event will be held at the Cyberzone Level of SM City North EDSA from October 28 - 30.

Not only you will be able to watch the best of the best battle for the podium, there will also be a cosplay competition and other events that will definitely spice up the as the event goes on. For gamers, the event will feature tournaments for both Mineski Professional Gaming League (MPGL) and the WCG Qualifiers. Alongside this is the appearance of Alodia Gosiengfiao not only as a cosplayer but also as a gamer for one of the matches. Who says girls can't play DotA? Be there to find out what the goddess can do with a mouse and keyboard. :)

Side note to this is the first ever group planking competition organized by "Planking Pilipinas". With alot of activities and prizes at stake, this is one event that every pinoy gamer shouldn't miss. Check out the sneak peak below and for more updates please visit their official fan page for more details. (https://www.facebook.com/PinoyGamingFestival)