Martinus Miguel, a 13-year-old Filipino singer, musician, and performer based in Dubai, is quickly becoming one of the most promising young talents in the global performing arts scene. A Grade 8 student at Richmindale Learning Center, Martinus captured international attention after a spectacular showing at the 2024 World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Long Beach, California.
Representing the United Arab Emirates in WCOPA 2024, Martinus brought home an impressive collection of medals: golds in Vocal Gospel, Vocal Contemporary, Gospel with Self Accompaniment, and Vocal R&B Soul Jazz; silvers in Instrumental Open and KEM Trio Contemporary; and a bronze in Vocal Open. He was also named a Junior Grand Finalist and earned the title of Division Champion in Gospel with Self Accompaniment—solidifying his status as a global rising star.
In recognition of his outstanding talent and global representation, Martinus was recently honored as a 2025 Global Icon Awardee by Filipino Global Magazine, celebrating his achievements as a young artist making waves on the international stage.
Beyond competitions, Martinus has demonstrated exceptional range and versatility in musical theater, including his notable performance as the lead in Aladdin for an Off-Broadway UAE production. A multi-instrumentalist, Martinus plays the drums, piano, and guitar, showcasing musical maturity far beyond his years.
In April 2025, Martinus released his debut single, “Naaakit Mo Ako”, a fresh, feel-good OPM track composed and produced by legendary Filipino hitmaker Vehnee Saturno. On May 17, the official music video was launched, directed by WCOPA UAE National Director and Off-Broadway UAE Artistic Director, Elipas Sibua. The video tells the story of a young high school boy who develops a crush on a classmate—depicting the universal experience of teenage admiration with charm and authenticity. Filmed at Brilliant Mindz Training Institute and a park in Dubai, the music video adds a heartfelt, cinematic layer to the single.
This collaboration marks a historic milestone, making Martinus the first Filipino artist raised in Dubai to be produced by the acclaimed OPM icon Vehnee Saturno.
Martinus continues to inspire fellow youth and aspiring performers, not only through his accomplishments but through his unwavering dedication and passion for the arts. As he sets his sights on a professional career in the entertainment industry, Martinus proudly carries the Filipino flag and the dreams of young talents across the UAE and beyond.
