A contestant performs during the finals of the 23rd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for College Students (Philippine Division) in Angeles, the Philippines, May 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali)
by Xinhua writer Zhang Yisheng
ANGELES, the Philippines, May 29 (Xinhua) -- Desley Montesa took to the flower-ringed stage with bouncy steps after listening to Chinese songs sung by legendary pop singer Teresa Teng.
"I like listening to Teng's songs when I feel nervous. Her songs calm me down quickly," the 19-year-old sophomore said after finishing her performance at a Chinese language competition held on Tuesday in Angeles, northwest of the Philippine capital Manila.
The finals of the 23rd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for College Students (Philippine Division), hosted by the Chinese embassy in the Philippines and organized by the Confucius Institute at the Angeles University Foundation (AUF), gave Montesa and other 11 young Chinese-language learners the opportunity to showcase their language skills and talent.
The final match was divided into four parts -- a Chinese knowledge quiz, a themed speech, a talent show, and a vote canvassing -- held at the AUF Sports and Cultural Center.
In the speech session with the theme of "One World One Family," the college students expressed their views on Chinese-Philippine friendship and a shared future of humanity.
"The world is like one big family, and we are family members. Even though there are some differences, we can be together," said Carl Dowen Manguera, an AUF sophomore, adding that he was inspired by "Go Ahead," a Chinese family drama series revolving around three non-blood-related kids who became each other's family.
"I am very, very happy and everything paid off," Manguera said after hearing he won the championship. That means he will travel to China later this year to participate in the global finals of the contest.
Jose Macapagal Jr., AUF vice president for administration, said: "The competition is not just a platform for showcasing linguistic proficiency. It is a celebration of cultural diplomacy and mutual respect."
Viewing education as the "cornerstone" of achieving the vision of "One World One Family," Macapagal said, "Through education, we can bridge gaps, resolve misunderstanding, and build a world where diversity is celebrated and valued."
For Montesa, who won the third prize, preparing for the contest was also a journey of personal growth. "I'm very proud of myself for conquering my fears of performing in front of many." ■
Carl Dowen Manguera (R) receives his award during the finals of the 23rd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for College Students (Philippine Division) in Angeles, the Philippines, May 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali)
