The search is on for young 'Pinoy Idols'

MANILA, Philippines - Are you the talk of your hometown because of your exceptional singing, dancing, painting, or acting? If you are a graduating elementary student, and believe you’ve got the gift and the heart for ART, then you are the talented Pinoy that we’re looking for.

Join the nationwide search for young arts scholars, a yearly screening conducted by the Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) to identify and develop artistically gifted children. 

Applicants may go to the various regional audition centers on the dates specified:

Luzon: La Union National High School, Ortega St., Catbangen, San Fernando City (Feb. 15); Olongapo City National High School (Feb. 19); General Trias Memorial Elem. School, Cavite (Feb. 22); Masbate National Comprehensive High School (Feb. 26); San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila School, Nangka, Marikina City (March 3); Philippine High School for the Arts, National Arts Center, Los Baños Laguna (March 13).

Visayas: Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School Tagbilaran, Bohol (March 8); Mandaue City School for the Arts, Cebu (March 9); Leyte National High School, Tacloban City (March 10).

Mindanao: Alabel Central Elem. School, Saranggani (March 19); and Agusan National High School, Butuan City (March 22).

All application forms, documents, and requirements must be received by the search committee on or before Feb. 8 (Luzon applicants); Feb. 22 (Visayas) and March 8 (Mindanao).

The PHSA is a government-run secondary school for artistically gifted and talented children. It implements a special secondary education curriculum and support programs committed to the conservation and promotion of the Filipino artistic and cultural traditions. Located in Mt. Makiling, PHSA provides its students with opportunities to develop their social skills that will contribute to their development as socially responsible artists. PHSA students take Basic Education subjects prescribed by the Department of Education plus specialized studies for creative and artistic expressions in Creative Writing, Dance, Music, Theater Arts and Visual Arts.

PHSA students regularly participate in extramural events such as outreach projects in other communities, recitals, educational and exposure trips, interactions and master classes with well-known artists and other co-curricular activities. To ensure a more individualized and differentiated academic and arts training program, the PHSA accepts only a limited number of freshmen (from 40 to 50) every year.

The successful applicant is awarded free tuition fee, board and lodging, classes with master teachers, a monthly stipend, plus the chance to represent the country and the school in international festivals, competitions and exchange programs.

Write or call the Philippine High School for the Arts, National Arts Center, Mt. Makiling, Los Baños 4030, Laguna, telefax (049) 536-5972, email [email protected] or download the application form at www.phsa.edu.ph.