SM Mall of Asia Hosts 7th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition this 2016

Fireworks are always fascinating to behold, especially when they are set to music. Last year, I watched the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition (PIPC) for the first time (read my blog post about it, here) and enjoyed appreciating the creativity of the participating countries.

a quick selfie while the sky is being lit up by a million lights  

This 2016, the PIPC is back for its 7th year at the SM Mall of Asia with an even bigger and better show. Spectators are in for a treat as 12 countries will be displaying their awesome fireworks performances in a shower of lights amid a symphony of sounds.

beautiful fireworks by Team UK

Every Saturday, starting February 13, the sky beyond Seaside Boulevard will be lit with a dazzling array of colors. Two weeks ago, the Philippine Platinum Fireworks team showcased their skills together with Luso Pirotecnia from Portugal.

Team Italy's entry reminded me of fireflies!

Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of watching the shows of Parente Fireworks from Italy and Pyrotex Fireworkx LTD from the United Kingdom. Italy's entry made me nostalgic because a song they used was featured in one of my favorite movies, Only You, starring Robert Downey Jr. and Marisa Tomei, which was filmed in Italy.

I am glad to have been able to capture a good shot of the fireworks that included a lot of vibrant colors. The photo itself speaks to me about the celebration of life and love -- a great tribute to Amore, indeed!

a myriad of pretty colors showcased by Team Italy 

While the UK team was given time to prepare their show, I was surprised to hear the announcement that Hale would be performing some songs. Two of my friends and I went nearer the stage to hear the band play. Although I'm quite familiar with their songs (having sons and a nephew who are big fans and being friends with the lead singer), it was my first time to catch Hale perform live since the band reunited last year. 

Hale on stage

Champ Lui Pio, Roll Martinez, Sheldon Gellada, and Paolo Santiago rendered some of their classic songs Blue Sky, Kung Wala Ka, The Day You Said Goodnight, Kahit Na, and Pitong Araw to the delight of the many fans who sang along, Carl and I included! 

finally, a photo op with the whole band, yey!
with (from left) Roll, Sheldon, Champ, and Pao -- thank you guys! :)

After their set, Carl, JR, and I were able to have each of our photos taken with the band inside the artists' holding area thanks to Champ who graciously accommodated us. I was so happy that Carl, who has also been a big fan for years, finally got to meet the members of Hale in person :)

UK's entry

We got back to the media area in time to catch United Kingdom's entry. I got to take a photo of hearts in the sky! Much as I loved Italy's show, I think UK's finale was more impressive because everything seemed to happen all at once while the last strains of Whitney Houston's song, I Will Always Love You, accompanied those final bursts of light.

hearts by Team UK

Make sure to catch the PIPC schedules in the next coming Saturdays and marvel at more skyline expertise:

• February 27 - Atlas Pyrovision from the USA and Royal Fireworks from the Netherlands with performances by Sarah Lahbati and Brownman Revival
• March 5 - Steffes-ollig Feuerwerk from Germany and Royal Pyrotechnie from Canada with a performance from MYMP 
• March 12 - Skylighter Fireworkx from Australia and Polaris Fireworks from China with a performance from Side A
• March 19 - Brezac Artefices from France and another exhibition from Platinum Fireworks, Inc. from the Philippines with performances by the UST Symphony Orchestra and pop princess Sarah Geronimo

UK's grand finale

To better enjoy the fireworks displays and live musical entertainment at the Seaside Boulevard, SM by the Bay, buy tickets at any SM Ticket outlet and SM Mall of Asia. Prices are at P1, 500 for VIP (including dinner), P600 for VIP, P300 for Gold, and P100 for Silver. 

Make sure to take good photos and post them online because you might win some cool prizes! Check SM Mall of Asia's social media sites for more details.

with (from left) Carl, Ella, Myrns, JR, and FPJ

The 2016 Philippine International Pyromusical Competition is in partnership with Platinum Fireworks Inc. co-presented by Close Up and SMDC, with special thanks to Department of Tourism, City of Pasay, Philippine Reclamation Authority, Microtel Mall of Asia, and online media partner When in Manila. For more information about the event, visit the SM Mall of Asia official Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts.