 |
| Roque Mari Espayos as Kamael of Lineage 2 |
In the early days of cosplaying, conventions were mostly exclusively known to those who have unwavering passion for cosplay and those who consider it as a true form of art and expressions.
Sadly, today, due to the availability of information, cosplay events are now attended by some people who have neither good motivations nor respect for the hobby. Perverts dudes, sexual predators and starry-eyed teens seeing cosplay as their way to stardom (with no real love for it) are just some of the examples.
Amidst all these issues surrounding cosplay, it is gratifying to know that there are still many who sees cosplay for what it should be; a venue for self-expression, guiltless fun and character transformation. Our featured cosplayer today is unquestionably one of them.
Meet Roque Mari Espayos, a simple guy with true respect for cosplay.
Let's get to know Roque a bit more through this short interview.
Tell us a few things about yourself.
I was born on a strict family, I was an introvert kid as shy as a bashful mimosa and agoraphobic; I’m an only child but was never spoiled due to my personality, BUT THANK GOD TO COSPLAY! It gave me the courage to step up (kumapal ang face) and thanks to the community that teaches me how to be with different people, good or bad.
 |
| Roque Mari Espayos - Wizard Class from Aion Online |
I started cosplaying back in 2010.
What motivates you to cosplay?
Cosplay helps me boost my self confidence,
What costume/s have you worn? What made you choose that/those costume/s?
My first cosplay was Kamael race from Lineage 2, this costume was a tribute for Lineage2 Sea Asia server that was shut down way back 2010 and as a promise to myself I will cosplay my favorite race. My 2nd was wizard from Aion online Elyos race, as a tribute for Aion Online private server, Infinite Aion that was shut down a year ago.
What cosplay events have you attended and which one do you consider most special?
Cosplay Mania X is the most special event and the first event I ever joined, I’m just a usual conger on events. Otaku Expo, Toycons and PCC are just some of the events that I have attended so far.
Describe your life outside cosplaying.
SOBRANG BUSY NA TAO! pero makulit
What keeps you busy these days?
I’m a freelance, animator, graphic artist, book illustrator and full time owner of the only service transport handler of San Beda Taytay, Rizal, I’m a very busy person but gives allotment for cosplay events which is the source of my well-deserved happiness.
What do you want to become in the cosplay world?
SIMPLE, GUSTO KO LANG MAGING REPRESENTATIVE ANG PILIPINAS ON ANY COSPLAY CONS SA IBANG BANSA!!!
It will be my honor, and my dream to be on that position!
Tell us something that you HATE.
I hate cosplay butchers/ butcheresses! Lalo na kung plastic at di marunong makisama. There’s no such thing as professional cosplayer, cosplay goddess and gods (baliw lang mga ganung tao)
Tell us something that you LOVE.
Mga taong masaya kasama at may topak. Yung hindi (menstruation topak ha, panget un!) Baliw sa baliw ako, sinusulit lang ang pagkakataon with friends.
I also love people who loves to cosplay because of their passion.
Messages to fans and fellow cosplayers.
Cosplay will never leave as long as there are people who humbly believe that it’s a form of self expression, passion and love.
 |
| Roque Mari Espayos as Kamael of Lineage 2 |
 |
| Roque Mari Espayos - Wizard Class from Aion Online |
 |
| Roque Mari Espayos - Costrip |
 |
| Roque Mari Espayos - Costrip |
A young man with great motivations and a clear vision of what he wants to accomplish; that would probably best describe Roque as a cosplayer. If only all cosplayers would have the same amount of passion that Roque has, then the cosplay cosmos would be a more fun place to live in.
You can follow Roque at his official Facebook account.
