WITH the help of a stage, a microphone, and spotlight, some local kids shined during the preliminary competition of the annual search for SM Little Stars held at the SM City Davao last May 14 and 15. 
 
It was indeed another great weekend for me, to see kids jumping, running around the venue, and innocent laughs roaring at the backstage while parents anxious while waiting for their kid’s turn to show up onstage.
 
A total of 180 children joined during the pre-elimination round in which only ten kids will qualify for the elimination round slated July 07.
 
Kids who came from Cotabato, Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos), Davao Del Norte, and Davao City competed for the title to join the eliminations at SM City Davao.
 
Winners include Patrick Jan Jakob, Lady Jewel Agduma among others.
 
Organizers had a hard time keeping order among the kids as the backstage turned into a playground. However, with their bubbly and cute faces, you can only smile and watch them enjoy this moment. 
 
It was a lengthy show but the rewards were immeasurable as we hear endless giggling from the kids, parents beaming with pride to see their talented mini me’s onstage showcasing their talents.
 
The 180 SM Little Star qualifiers strutted the stage and introduce themselves, to the delight of the audience, as kids showed self-confidence and talent with ease. 
 
The SM Little Stars is a contest for boys and girls aged four to seven years old who is smart, photogenic, telegenic, cute and charming. 
 
Over P6.5 million worth of prizes is at stake, which includes a year contract from TV 5, Trip to Xiamen, China plus a college scholarship to National University, P500,000 worth of cash and SM Gift Certificates, Brand new Suzuki Ciaz Tax-Free to be won in the Grand Finals which will be held in Manila.
 
Members of the Board of Judges were Song spell Alumna & Musikademy Voice Coach Marianne Tuazon, Mutyang Mindanao 2014 and Ateneo de Davao International Studies Graduate Arianne Shane Buenviaje, Division Education Program Supervisor for Elementary & Secondary and DepEd events specialist Amelia Lacerna.