Draft:Zumba in the Philippines

Zumba is a Colombian fitness program founded by Colombian dancer Beto Pérez in 2001. Ever since then, the program spread worldwide, with multiple countries catering to the program. Zumba later landed in the Philippines in 2011.

History

Origins and spread

Zumba in the Old Provincial Capitol of Bacolod.

In the 2000's, Emma Satchell, now known as the nationwide "Zumba Queen", attended Zumba classes in the United States held by Beto's assistant, Kho Herlong. After years of experience, Satchell became a licensed instructor in 2007 and flew to multiple countries to teach her expertise. She later landed in the Philippines in 2011, teaching students and dancing in public parks. Initially, Satchell was laughed at by passerby, pushing her to spread Zumba to local gyms. Even though gym members worshipped Zumba, Satchell spread Zumba to local malls and Barangays.

Further spread

Zayaw Fiesta and other major events

In July 2017, Filipino Zumba instructor Ron Antonio released the Original Pilipino music Zumba album Zayaw Filipinas, the first worldwide Zumba album. To promote the album's release, Antonio held a Zumba concert on July 16 in the Philippine International Convention Center. A total of 2,500 people joined, with Pocari Sweat, Organique Acai, Rain International, and Flanax as co-presenters. Two media partners recorded the event, Pinas FM and WhenInManila.com. The event was a success, popularizing Antonio as the "Creator of Pinoy Dance Fitness".

In April 2023, Antonio headed another event, this time breaking the Guinness World Record for the most participants in a Zumba class, with a total of 14,000 participants.