Kids and kids-at-heart at TOYCON '09

MANILA, Philippines – In collaboration with Hero TV, ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN Interactive, the eighth Philippine Toys, Hobbies and Collectibles Convention or TOYCON 2009 was a success. With support from toy distributors, gamers, pop memorabilia collectors and cosplay enthusiasts, the event was celebrated by kids and kids at heart last weekend at the SM Megamall‘s Megatrade Hall 2 and 3. It started with a ribbon-cutting ceremony participated in by Zaijan Jaranilla, popularly known as Santino of May Bukas Pa.

When Zaijan was asked what he wanted to take home, the boy responded, “I like Bumblebee of Transformers.” To the delight and surprise of everyone, the participants were given the chance to watch the special and exclusive video stream of Mark Ryan, the voice actor behind Bumblebee, who gave his warm greetings to everyone at the convention.

The occasion was graced by both Hong Kong-based artists Tim Tsui and Toby HK. To the delight of all the toy loving participants, the affair had band performances, colorful cosplay, unique toy photography, customized action figures, live auctions, fan film screenings, diorama and scale model contest, toy designing, raffles and games.

ABS-CBN‘s Isang Lakas lifesize statues of Mars Ravelo‘s creations like Lastikman, Kapitan Boom, Varga, TinyTony, Dragonna and Flash Bomba added more excitement for enthusiasts who made sure they had their photos taken with them.

This year’s toy convention has set new attendance records and is considered by many to be the best Philippine TOYCON so far.

The eighth Philippine TOYCON is organized by Collectibles Unlimited.

For details, log on to www.abs-cbn.com.