PATHUM THANI, 05 DECEMBER 2024 - A family of Filipino puppeteers proudly represented the Philippines at the Harmony World Puppet Innovation Festival 2024, held from 13 to 17 November 2024, at the National Science Museum in Pathum Thani.

The festival, which brought together puppet artists from 13 countries including Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mexico, Colombia, Canada, Australia, Japan, Turkey, Indonesia, Singapore, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, and the Philippines, showcased the rich diversity of puppetry as an art form.

The Philippines was represented by Wanlu A. Lunaria, Elijah G. Lunaria, Gabby G. Lunaria, Debbie Guanzon-Lunaria, Jean Amador, Ernie Sarangaya, and Joan Barbacena-Sarangaya, who captivated audiences with their puppet show promoting animal welfare and environmental awareness. Their performance featured the creative use of ventriloquism and marionettes, delivering an inspiring message that resonated deeply with the audience.

In recognition of his exceptional talent and passion, Christian Elijah G. Lunaria was honored with the festival's Outstanding Youth Puppeteer Award. Presented by the event organizers, UNIMA Thailand and SemaThai Marionettes, this prestigious award was the sole prize given during the festival, highlighting Elijah's remarkable contribution to the art of puppetry.

The Lunaria family shared that their participation in international puppetry festivals is driven by a love for the craft and a profound commitment to representing the Philippines on the global stage.

"We don't earn anything when we join puppetry festivals abroad," said Wanlu Lunaria. "Our happiness lies in performing the art, representing our country, and most importantly, doing this for our son, Eli, who has ADHD and mild autism. His joy and growth through puppetry inspire us to keep going."

The Harmony World Puppet Innovation Festival 2024 celebrated not only the artistry of puppetry but also its power to educate, inspire, and build cultural bridges. The Philippines' heartfelt performance and meaningful messages left an indelible mark on the international audience. END