• CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
The presentation and sashing of the 21 candidates for the first Miss Universe Philippines – Negros Occidental was held yesterday at Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod.
The candidates are Bernie Larit, Arianah Dimson, Jonalyn Grace Diamena, Allana Brodit, Frances Marie Monsale, Anika Rose Torres, Hannah Eureka Carriedo, Angeline Shane Javellana, Carvi Reyes Lacson, Dissa Figueroa, Franches Anne Laquibla, Althea Nicole Gadingan, Ina Marie Hengelmolen, Brittany Kendylle Gabutina, Mary Angelique Faye Cabellero, Angelica Janine Layoso, CJ Lois Nicole Wong, Louise Lian Bobe, Patricia Ysabel Galapino, Precious Ramiragen Batiancilla, and Elvie Mae Barrios.
The official sashing of the candidates will be on November 10, while the pre-pageant will be on Nov. 19 at the Atrium, North Wing of SM City Bacolod. Coronation night will be on November 24 at SMX Convention Center.
Only one winner will be selected to represent Negros in the Miss Universe Pageant.
Kashmere Granada, Miss Universe Philippines local director, yesterday said she took the risk to involve herself in this project because she believes that women in Negros have the capacity to put the province on the national stage.
James Larnelle, head stylist, said they held a two-day screening of all 34 applicants on August 30 and September 1 to select the best of the best, especially when it comes to communication, beauty, and how they present themselves.
Rodney Mitz Ascalon, head of production, said the panel of judges was composed of beauty queens who represented Bacolod.
The candidate who will represent Negros on the national stage does not only have to possess beauty and intelligence, but the right character or attitude as well, Granada said.
Ascalon said the candidates are scheduled to pay a courtesy call on the governor and the mayors of the local government they represent. So he is appealing to the mayors to support their candidates on their journey to the Miss Universe.*
