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RP HOSTS ASIA SONG FESTIVAL '98

Manila, Jan. 6, 1998 - In celebration of the 100th year of Philippine Independence, the Philippines will host the Asia Song Festival '98 on March 11-15, 1998.

Only on its third year, the Asia Song Festival is recognized as the most prestigious song competition in the region. Ten countries are participating in 1998: Japan, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, Taiwan, People's Republic of China, Brunei and the Philippines.

Prizes at stake include a cash prize of P50,000 to the winner of the local search, while trophies and cash prizes amounting to $26,000 await the winners of the international finals.

The festival is jointly sponsored by the KATHA, or Organization of Filipino Composers, the Minoru Endoh Music Foundation, Nippon Foundation and the Department of Tourism.

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