20TH APHCA HAIR OLYMPICS – Beauty Showdown in Manila

20TH APHCA HAIR OLYMPICS – Beauty Showdown in Manila
By JAY PATAO
Photos by Edmund Chua & Joselito Caleon

THE 20th Asia Pacific Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Association (APHCA) Hair Olympics came back to Manila where it all started in 1997, holding the fabulous beauty and fashion event at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Arena last October 26.

Talented hair and make-up artists from APHCA’s member countries Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China (Hong Kong and Macau), Indonesia, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and the Philippines gathered for the competition where they eagerly put their best efforts to surpass themselves after winning national selection events in their respective countries.

The grand event began with the ribbon-cutting ceremonies led by APHCA founder and president Ricky Reyes, former Philippine First Lady Amelita “Ming” Ramos, Pasay City First lady Edna Calixto, SM’s Hans Sy, APHCA secretary general Theresa Tham and Senator Bam Aquino.
The competitors displayed their creative talents and expertise with precision that amazed both the judges and audience in the truly jaw-dropping event.

Hair and make-up techniques, originality and creativity were among the criteria utilized by the judges who were composed of experts from the participating delegations.
The competition has two categories: Category A for men’s cut & blow dry, avant-garde color, evening party make-up and bridal make-up; and Category B for total look, nail art and evening party hairstyle.

And the winners are: Taiwan, evening party make-up; Philippines, nail art; Taiwan, total look; China, avant garde; China, men’s cut & blow dry; Hong Kong, evening party make-up; and Macau, bridal make-up. Macau was declared as the overall champion this year.

Category A winners each received a trophy/citation and cash prize of P25, 000; first runners-up each received a trophy/citation and cash prize of P15, 000; and second runners-up each received a trophy/citation and cash prize of P10, 000. The grand champion received a presidential trophy and cash prize of P35, 000 plus a trip to Hong Kong.

Category B winners each received a trophy/citation and cash prize of P10, 000; first runners-up each received a trophy/citation and cash prize of P7, 000; and the second runners-up received a trophy/citation and cash prize of P5, 000.

The international delegates, sponsors and guests also got a special treat from heartthrob Alden Richards who graced the event. Seminars and workshops were also conducted while a trade fair of over 50 booths featuring local and international beauty items from participating APHCA member countries were also featured.

A spectacular number featuring APHCA delegation from Korea, China, Japan, Thailand and the Philippines showcased their native cultural dances.
Ricky Reyes turned over the APHCA flag to Eung Soo Kang of South Korea, the host of next year’s event.

The 20th Hair Olympics is supported by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) through the Department of Tourism (DOT), Zen Institute, Air Asia, Skin Care Formula by Dr. Alvin, Philbeauty, Selective Professional, Pagcor and Travelpros.