MANILA, Philippines - Japan, Italy and the Philippines won the major prizes at the 21st Macau International Fireworks Display Contest, an annual event showcasing top pyrotechnic display teams from all over the world.
The Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) announced the winners last Oct. 1, National Day, at the Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center.
João Manuel Costa Antunes, MGTO director, awarded the trophy and prizes.
Tamaya Kitahara Fireworks Co. Ltd. of Japan, the grand prize winner, received $8,000. First and second runners-up La Tirrena S.A.S. Fireworks of Italy and Platinum Fireworks Inc. of the Philippines received $4,000 and $2,500, respectively.
This year, MGTO invited teams with “distinguished performances in international contests.”
The 10 teams were from Spain, South Korea, Chinese Taiwan, France, Italy, the Philippines, Japan, Portugal, Austria, and China.
Visitors from all over the world flock to Macau annually to witness the magnificent fireworks displays and to take part in activities leading up to National Day.
Antunes said the MGTO will continue to enhance the quality and attractiveness of the contest as a must-see annual event in Macau.
To captivate their audiences, participating teams are encouraged to complement their display with music, ranging from classical or folk music to contemporary music. Special themes and features also enhance the pyrotechnic displays.
Tamaya Kitahara Fireworks Co. Ltd., the big winner of this year’s show, also won first prize in 2004 and 2005, and first runner-up in the 2008 contest.
First runner-up La Tirrena S.A.S. Fireworks, a newcomer to the event, did not disappoint audiences with its promise to deliver “a unique, fresh and exciting show.”
The Philippine team’s big break came this year, its fourth year in the competition.
Throughout the competition nights, a Fireworks Carnival featuring live entertainment and a host of cultural activities took place at the shorefront beside the Macau Tower, the venue for this annual competition.
The festivities were co-presented by the MGTO and the General Union of Neighbors Association of Macau.
In honor of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Hunan Jixiu Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Co. of China presented the final spectacular fireworks display of the event.