Words by: Jas Nepomuceno
Our favorite Japanese cat-type robot from the future, Doraemon, aims to spread a reminder that everyone can be a hero to anyone, with its anti-bullying campaign, #ImYourHero. With the beloved character’s story derivation from the comic books, Doraemon is perfect for the role. Doraemon’s character embodies honesty, perseverance, courage, family values, and respect in a comedic approach.
(Left) Abe Franco, General Manager of Animation International Philippines, Inc., (Right) Tim Kondo, General Manager of Animation International
This 2017, TIME Magazine’s Cuddliest Asian Hero in 2002 reaches out to more fans with the help of the creative minds from Animation International (AI) Limited. AI also brought life to some popular anime characters that we grew up with like Hamtaro, Dragon Ball Z, Sailor Moon, and Digimon, to name a few.
[Related Article: 10 Things You Probably Did Not Know About Doraemon]
Doraemon has been a household name, especially for the 90’s kids (who are not so kids anymore today). Even so, the First Anime Ambassador from Japan is a versatile character who can adapt to anyone regardless of one’s age bracket. Who wouldn’t want a friend like Doraemon, anyway? With his handy gadgets from his 4D pocket and of course, a friend who stands by you no matter what! Doraemon is truly a hero.
The beauty of Doraemon’s story is that it also demonstrates that heroes do commit mistakes. In the story, we can remember that it’s not always Doraemon helping out Nobita, sometimes, it’s the other way around, even with the other characters, like Damulag, Suneo, or Shizuka.
With AI Philippines’ intention to empower today’s generation that everyone can be a hero, we can expect to see more of Doraemon here in the Philippines in the near future!
Doraemon merchandise would soon be available in our local convenience stores. We can also look out for Doraemon treats and Doraemon-themed toys! (We are also hoping for functional Doraemon gadgets, to come out as well. *Fingers-crossed* Because wouldn’t that just be awesome?)
Watch out for the Doraemon ROADVenture! Mall Tour to meet and greet a life-size Doraemon and Nobita and take pictures with them, too!
Everyone is invited to the Kick-Off Event of the Tour from August 7-13 at SM North EDSA The Block.
Don’t worry if the Kick-Off event is too far from you, there are other venues to look out for!
- August 21 – 25: SM City Manila
- September 1 – 10: SM City San Mateo
- September 18 – 24: SM Taytay
- September 25 – 30: SM Sta. Mesa
- October 9 – 15: SM City East Ortigas
- October 23 – 31: SM BF Paranaque
- November 13 – 19: SM Mall of Asia
- November 4—5:  Robinson’s Manila
- November 24 – 35 : Robinson’s Antipolo
- November 10 – 12: Robinson’s Magnolia
(These may still change upon final confirmation of the Mall Management.)
Not only that, children who haven’t known Doraemon yet would get the chance to meet the very cute and lovely Doraemon with the following School Adventure Venues:
- Don Bosco Makati
- UNO High School
- Claret School
- Makati Hope Christian School
- Southville International School
- University of Sto. Tomas
- James QC
- Notre Dame of Greater Manila
- Colegio De Sta. Rosa
- Colegio De San Agustin
Be part of Doraemon’s advocacy against bullying and spreading love! Be anyone’s hero and post how much you love Doraemon with the HashTag #ImYourHero
