Where Music Meets Filipino Craftsmanship: KWC Philippines and Tumandok Forge a Creative Partnership | A new season deserves a new symbol of achievement.
As Karaoke World Championships (KWC) Philippines enters Season 3 (2026–2027), it is raising the bar not only in discovering and celebrating Filipino singing talents but also in creating a more meaningful and memorable experience for its champions.
Finding the right creative partner was an important part of this year’s vision. KWC Philippines wanted something beyond the usual competition plaque or conventional trophy. It wanted an award that would tell a story, reflect Filipino artistry, and embody the passion, courage, and excellence of every individual who steps onto the KWC stage.
That vision found its perfect creative match in Tumandok Craft Industries, a proudly homegrown creative enterprise from Bacolod City, known for its craftsmanship and artistic approach to locally made creations.
The partnership brings together two organizations with a shared appreciation for Filipino talent, creativity, and craftsmanship. Through an exciting collaboration between Ms. Josephine Locsin of Tumandok Craft Industries and Apple Esplana-Manansala, Country Director of KWC Philippines, the two teams co-designed and exclusively fabricated a distinctive, upgraded version of the KWC Philippines Season 3 award.
The result is a striking piece of craftsmanship that moves away from the conventional trophy design. Featuring a sculptural interpretation of the microphone and the iconic star, complemented by rich metallic finishes and a bold circular centerpiece, the award represents the power of music, the courage to perform, and the shining individuality of every Filipino singer.
More than an award, it is a keepsake that celebrates the journey behind every victory.
A Collaboration Built on Shared Creative Vision
For KWC Philippines, the partnership was about finding a creative collaborator who could understand the bigger picture: that an award should be as exceptional as the achievement it represents.
“We wanted to give our winners something different this season. Something that would not simply sit on a shelf but would become a meaningful reminder of their hard work, courage, and the journey they took to become champions. We wanted an award that had character, identity, and a distinct Filipino touch. Tumandok understood that vision and helped us bring it to life,” said Apple Esplana-Manansala, Country Director of KWC Philippines.
For Ms. Josephine Locsin, the collaboration provided an opportunity to translate an artistic concept into a tangible creation that celebrates music and Filipino craftsmanship.
“Every award carries a story, and we wanted this particular piece to tell a story worth remembering. It was exciting to collaborate with KWC Philippines because we were not simply producing a trophy; we were creating something with purpose and meaning. We wanted every detail to reflect the passion behind the competition and the pride of the people who will receive it,” shared Ms. Josephine Locsin.
From Bacolod to the National Stage
One of the most exciting highlights of this partnership is its commitment to bringing regional Filipino craftsmanship to a national platform.
With Tumandok Craft Industries exclusively fabricating the KWC Philippines Season 3 awards, the collaboration also puts a spotlight on the creative capabilities of Bacolod-based artisans and makers.
It is a meaningful reminder that world-class creativity and craftsmanship can come from anywhere in the Philippines.
And this partnership will not be limited to the national finals.
Every Regional Winner of KWC Philippines Season 3 will receive an exclusive Tumandok Trophy, making each regional competition an opportunity to take home a specially crafted symbol of achievement.
For the winners, the trophy will represent more than being the best singer in their respective region. It will symbolize the dedication, preparation, and determination that brought them one step closer to the national championship and, ultimately, the opportunity to represent the Philippines on the international stage.
More Than a Trophy, A Celebration of Filipino Excellence
As KWC Philippines continues to expand its reach across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, its partnership with Tumandok Craft Industries reinforces a bigger vision for Season 3: to create a competition that celebrates not only extraordinary voices but also Filipino creativity, collaboration, and innovation.
The collaboration between Josephine Locsin and Apple Esplana-Manansala demonstrates what can happen when two creative minds come together with a common purpose.
One brings the platform that discovers and develops Filipino singing talent. The other brings the artistry and craftsmanship that transforms an idea into something lasting.
Together, they are creating a new tradition for KWC Philippines.
Because at KWC, every voice deserves to be heard, every champion deserves to be celebrated, and every achievement deserves an award worthy of its story.
KWC Philippines Season 3 (2026–2027). A bigger stage. Extraordinary voices. A trophy crafted to remember.
In partnership with Tumandok Craft Industries, Bacolod City.
KARAOKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS PHILIPPINES
Celebrating Filipino Voices. Championing Filipino Talent.
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