• ANDREW ALTAREJOS
Jamaica Bantigue representing Sangguniang Bayan Office was crowned this year’s Diwata sang Kali 2025 during the pageant’s coronation night at the municipal gymnasium in Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental Saturday.
Runner-up winners who were also crowned with individual titles were Karryl Alimbuyao representing Barangay Bunga as Diwata sang Katubigan, Jeah Navarro representing Barangay Bagong Silang as Diwata sang Katawhan, Juliana Marie Benitua of Barangay Pinowayan as Diwata sang Kabukiran, and Chloegen Cauntao representing Barangay Igmayaan as Diwata sang Kahanginan.
This year’s panel of judges for the Diwata sang Kali pageant were Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez – director, Regional Office VI Department of Tourism – Western Visayas, Brent Dalman – Mr. Top Model of Universe Tourism 2024, Raven Doctor – Miss Eco Teen International 2024 3rd runner-up, Alexie Caimoso Brooks – Miss Iloilo 2024 and Miss Eco International Philippines 2024;
Kenneth Vincent Cabungcal – Man of the World 2024 1st runner-up, Cindy Obeñita – Miss Intercontinental 2021 and Senior Tourism Officer, Province of Misamis Oriental, and Jojo Bragais – owner of Bragais Shoes, Diwata sang Kali official footwear.
Also present during the event were Don Salvador Benedicto Municipal Mayor Marxlen dela Cruz, Vice Mayor Nehemiah Joe dela Cruz, former mayor Cynthia dela Cruz, 3rd District Board Member Manuel Frederick Ko, 4th District Board Member Jose Benito Alonso, and municipal councilors.
The 3-hour pageant was hosted by Miss Charm 2023 1st runner-up Anabelle McDonelle and Migz Bustos.*
