THE first toy convention in Northern Mindanao will have its second row this year on November 26 to 27.
With the success of its first launching last year, producers Kristoffer Jan Liao and Rick Tidoy of CDO Toyzone are very excited about this year's Toy Show which will be held at the Limketkai Rotunda.
They assured that the toy convention is packed with more exciting activities.
CDO Toy zone is a group of Kagay-anon toy hobbyists who want to share the joy of toy collecting to more people.
"Children aren't the only ones who are invited in the Toy Show, in fact, we want it to become a family or barkada activity wherein even grown-ups can go and discover their hidden love for toys," Liao said.
One of the main highlights of the Toy Show is the Toy Exhibit wherein toys that are produced by well known makers such as Goodsmile, Square Enix, Hot Toys, Kotobukiya, Bandai and Hasbro will be put on display for interested toy collectors.
"The toys that we will feature are really legit ones which can cost up to P6, 000 when ordered online. In this event, we want toy enthusiasts to come together and discover more fandoms and participate in more toy show activities," Liao said.
Aside from the Toy Exhibit, other activities include Cosplay contests, Cardfight Vanguard and Magic Tournament, an Art Exhibit, Gundam Workshops and the Geek Wars.
The organizers are positive that these activities will further draw toy collectors and hobbyists not only from the city but also as far as the other regions in Mindanao.
Liao added that toy conventions are anticipated and celebrated all over the world such as Toycon, Hobbycon, San Diego Comic con and many more.
With them launching the Toy Show, more Filipinos in Northern Mindanao will finally get to experience a toy convention.
Liao also said that other budding collectors may be interested in toy collecting which, he believes is a very satisfying and fun activity to do.
"While most people believe that toys are only for children, we in Toyzone do not really think so. Adults can play and collect toys too. Activities like these will bring people who love toys and it can actually be entertaining. Aside from that, we are hoping that this can be a family activity wherein both parents and children can enjoy the two-day event," Liao added.
Organizers said that half of the proceeds will go to the children in the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC).
Liao said that they will organize a Christmas party on December for the children of the RSCC with the money that the Toy Show will produce.
"It is a way for us to give back to those who are less fortunate than us, to the children who can't actually afford to have toys of their own," Liao said.
Liao noted that they raise funds through registration fees, donations, in-card games and video and game tournaments.
“Last year, the registration fee was P250. But this year, we have plans na babaan siya, still in discussion pa,” said Liao.
The Toy Show will be held in the mall hours of Limketkai mall. (AV)