• ROGER D. BELTRAN
The maritime community of VMA Global College and Training Centers in Barangay Sum-ag, Bacolod City is buzzing with anticipation as the annual Mr. and Miss VMA pageant, a highlight of Sportsfest 2023, is just around the corner.
Contestants will not only represent themselves but will also become ambassadors and ambassadresses of one of city’s prestigious maritime schools.
This year, the pageant promises to be a spectacle of elegance and beauty, with the theme “Gods and Goddesses of the Sea” setting the stage for a night of maritime glamour.
The pre-pageant activities are scheduled to commence today, October 9, at 3 p.m., at the Gaisano Grand Central Bacolod. These activities include a talent competition where the contestants will showcase their unique abilities, and a sports attire presentation that will surely dazzle the audience. Corporate awards will also be handed out during the event.
The panel of pre-pageant judges comprises renowned MassKara choreographer and costume designer Jesus Segundo “Panoy” Cabalcar, the dashing Mr. Body and Looks Philippines 2022 Jhon Miles Peodina, and transgender beauty queen Angelicka Tupas. Their expertise promises to make the pre-pageant competition a fierce but fair affair.
The much-anticipated coronation night is set for October 10, starting at 7 p.m., at the VMA RSB Gymnasium. This is when the crowning moments will take place as six male candidates vie for the title of Mr. VMA 2023, and six female aspirants compete for the coveted title of Miss VMA 2023.
The contenders are Vincent Bullor, 19, and Zevah Mae Metoda, 19, from the “House Tritons” representing Deck 2; Razak Lopez, 19, and Kherstine Mahinay, 19, from the “House Nereus” (Deck 1); Joshua Dale Tamayo, 19, and Martinna Elissabette Lopez, 18, “House Thaumas” (Engine); Dominic Gabo, 21, and Sillyn Ysabelle Valente, 19, “House Palaemon Titans” (Deck 3); Philip Louis Pacheco, 22, and Carlin Jean Villanueva, 20, “House Oceanus” (College of Hospitality and Business Management); and Marco Antonio Padilla, 17, and Jane Lee Montales, 17, from the “House Proteus Defenders” representing the High School Department.
The pre-pageant photoshoot, artfully captured by Khalil Gib Alanza Estraño, was beautifully styled by CHBM Dean Edwin Benitez, who also serves as the pageant director. Before the coronation night, candidates also underwent rigorous training, including question and answer workshops, personality development sessions, and runway coaching.
Meanwhile, on October 6, the candidates came together at Romahan Beach in Brgy. Punta Taytay for an impressive cleanup effort and mangrove planting initiative. Their collective efforts are creating ripples of transformation, working towards a more environmentally friendly and pristine future for the coastal area.
While the main titles of Mr. and Miss VMA 2023 are the ultimate prizes, first runners-up and second runners-up will also be acknowledged. There are also minor awards at stake, including Mr. and Miss Congeniality, Mr. and Miss Photogenic, Best in Festival Attire, Best in Talent, Best in Sports Attire, Best in Swimwear, and Best in Formal Wear.
The reigning Mr. and Miss VMA, Lloyd Wel Anzures and Cristine Joy Baylon, will pass their crowns to the next generation of maritime ambassadors in an anticipated evening of maritime splendor.*
