5 students make it to Inquirer Read-Along festival finals

MANILA, Philippines — Five students made it to the finals of the Inquirer Read-Along Festival Storytelling Competition after surpassing the semifinals round held on Saturday at the Inquirer office in Makati.

The finalists are Mary Gold Tiara Eliang of Antonio Regidor Elementary School, James Zeus Manuel of School of Saint Anthony, Gain “Jessica” Seo of The Seed Montessori School, Lee Zceskamae Botin of Optimus Center for Development and Erika Zeurie Herrera of St. Alphonsus Ligouri Integrated School (Cavite).

The 11 semifinalists were given two minutes each to read their chosen book.

Ruth Navarra-Mayo, Inquirer Read-Along host, headed the board of judges, which included Ang Pinoy Storytellers’ Posh Develos and Inquirer photographer Grig Montegrande.

The two-day festival, to be held on Nov. 22-23 at the Inquirer main office, will culminate in the storytelling competition finals round to crown the festival queen or king.

The elimination round was held on Oct. 26. A total of 91 storytellers from 13 schools in Metro Manila, Bulacan and Cavite joined the competition.

Now on its ninth year, the read-along festival’s theme is “Children Rising” and will feature role models and celebrities as guest storytellers.

The festival queen or king will receive a cash prize, a medal and a stuffed Guyito doll.

Those interested to join the festival may call Odeng Orolaza at (02) 8897-8808 extension 330, or email [email protected]. Slots are available on a first come, first served basis. —Arianne Aine D. Suarez