Manila to host International Lion Dance Competition

MANILA, Philippines – More than a hundred delegates from countries across the world will come to the Philippines for the 5th International High Pole Lion Dance Invitational Championship on October 16 to 18 at Robinsons Place Manila. 13 teams from 8 different countries including the Philippines will gather to showcase their routines and compete for coveted championship title. The Philippine team will be represented by the Philippine Ling Nam Athletic Federation, a non-profit organization promoting Chinese culture with a particular focus on martial arts.

Unknown to many people, the Chinese lion dance (often mistakenly referred to as dragon dance) is a traditional Chinese art usually performed by martial artists. The movements of the dance are closely linked to Wushu and kung fu and performers train painstakingly to master the skill. The dance has evolved considerably to incorporate more complex acrobatic styles; thus, the creation of the High Pole Lion Dance which entails even greater balance and strength as the lion costumes typically weigh a great deal.

The 3-day event will commence with an opening ceremony—to be attended by Manila City Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Vice Mayor Isko Moreno, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Ricardo R. Garcia and Department of Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr.—and close with the awarding and a ceremonial turnover of the host flag to the next tournament’s host. The competition aims to elevate the High Pole Lion Dance as a sport and promote the Philippines domestically and internationally as a world-class sports events destination. The performances are open to the public from 2pm to 6pm on October 16, 17 and 18 at the Midtown Atrium of Robinsons Place Manila.