By: Ryan Tejero, Editor-in-Chief
Excitement overflows to the 5 finalists who will be competing at the 2023 Rising Stars talent competition. Each of the finalists will have the chance to showcase their unique talent. A carefully selected panel of judges will be giving feedback on each performance. Judging will be based on technical skills, creativity and originality, stage presence and charisma, audience impact and overall performance. A cash prize of $1000 and a lifetime of good memories await the lucky winner. The winner will also have the chance to perform at the stage of Fiesta Ko Sa Texas 2024 in Houston. This event will be covered by One Philippines Texas News at the MCM Elegante Hotel in Beaumont on December 16, 2023.
Meet the Finalists:
Khyla Dennise Bulajao is a 12-year-old, honor student from Bob Hope School, who is in love with singing and dancing. Khyla is a source of pride in her family. She placed 3rd in photojournalism Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC).; Regional 1st place in folk dance, Nutrition Month Queen and is very active in the Student Government Program (SPG).
Lemuel Jian Lobramonte was born with musical talent. He started playing drums at the age of 2 using plastic tupperware, saucepan and stainless cover. He joined Talentadong Trinitirain at General Santos City and won the 1st prize (playing drums as his talent). He loves to play KMKZ songs and other Rock Metal Band. He has a Youtube channel: Dreamer Drummer.
Jay Roco has been a Beaumont Texas resident since 2015. He migrated to the US in 2012 in Louisiana, where he became a member of the Iberia Performing Arts League. Jay is a recipient of the Presidential Award of Outstanding Leader and Outstanding Journalist from former Philippine President Gloria Arroyo. As a musician, he formed a band with his friends, and made it to front acts for some popular bands in the Philippines. He also devoted his talent to the Church by being part of the praise and worship team. Jay is a registered nurse and a graduate of an MBA in Healthcare Administration with an Honor for Asian & Pacific Islander recognition from Lamar University for his academic excellence. He is expected to graduate again in 2024 with his master’s in public health. Jay is the Assistant Director of Nursing at Dubuis Hospital and Quality Manager for Baptist Hospital. Jay currently serves as the Vice President of the Philippine Nurses Association of Texas Golden Triangle and previously a board member for PABT. Jay also owns and operates MJ Handyman Services.
Mark Kenneth A. Ones is 30 years old and is married. He is a teacher and has been teaching for 11 years. He is currently teaching Mathematics at Beaumont United High school.
Dan Lorenze Cogan Pasay was born and raised in Hawaii and had moved to Southeast Texas as of 2018. He is very proud of his Philippine heritage and culture but most of all his faith. He is currently 21 years old pursuing music and ministry. As of now, he has one song collaboration out on all platforms called “This Day”. Alongside his passion he is an accounting college student and currently works in sales for a tech/service company. He loves God, family, and serving others. He prays that He can be a blessing to others and be a testimony of what the grace of God can do.
Meet the panel of judges:
Tim Sudela began his career at American Valve & Hydrant in 1983 and was appointed President of the Company in 2008. He received a Degree in Drafting Technology from LIT in 1980, and later received Industrial Technology and Mechanical Engineering degrees from Lamar University. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Beaumont and he currently serves on the boards of the LIT Foundation, Symphony of Southeast Texas, and United Way of Beaumont and North Jefferson County.Tim is married to his wife, Lisa, and they have a son, Michael, and a daughter, Casey. His hobbies include photography and home repair.
Morline Guillory is the Associate Director of Philanthropic Services and Co-Director of Multicultural Ministry at Diocese of Beaumont
Elizabeth Blackstock is the Regional Vice President and Market Manager of Cumulus Media Beaumont and Lake Charles.
Ryan Tejero is a Fil-Am journalist based in Houston. He is the Editor-in-Chief of One Philippines Texas Newsmagazine, and a Senior Columnist-Writer for Chicago’s oldest and largest Filipino newsmagazine, The VIA Times. He is a graduate of the University of the Philippines, a community organizer, and a vocal coach. Ryan features Filipino leaders and organizations in America. He recently featured the Philippine Association of Beaumont Texas in the October issue of One Philippines. He is a co-organizer of Fiesta Ko Sa Texas, which is the biggest indoor Filipino community event in Texas. Ryan will invite the winner tonight to perform at the 2024 Fiesta Ko Sa Texas on August 4th in Houston. As a community organizer and advocate, Ryan sits as the Chairman of the Advisory Board of US Filipinos for Good Governance based in Michigan, Board Advisor to Filipino American Society in Iowa and currently the Executive Vice President of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association in America. Ryan is the personal vocal coach of her singer-daughter, who was previously invited to the private auditions of America’s Got Talent and The Voice USA.
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