A tourism management student representing Barangay Vito was hailed as the new Sinigayan Queen, besting 11 other candidates during the coronation night at the Sagay City Gymnasium, Monday night, according to a press release from Sagay PIO.
Franciene Rios, 19, a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management from the National University-Bacolod was crowned as the new Sinigayan Queen during the almost 4-hour show.
Rios bested the other candidates during the preliminary question and answer, swimsuit and long gown round, and the final question and answer.
During the final question, Rios was asked how she would serve as an instrument for every Sagaynon to move forward in unity and harmony.
She said that she would want to use her platform to advocate for nature and nurture, highlighting Sagay’s sustainability efforts while bringing her advocacy on mental health as she believes that a healthier planet results in healthier minds.
“I would like to use this platform not only for nature but also to connect mental health with it, that we can find solace in nature”, she said, adding “That here in Sagay City I also found the healing I needed.”
“As a beauty queen standing in front of you, I will move forward in harmony and bring Sagaynons as an orchestra to produce a progressive symphony because a healthier planet leads to healthier minds”, she added.
Meanwhile, Joyce Christine Gonzales from Brgy. Fabrica was the Sinigayan Queen 2025-Tourism and Jane Ashley Apelacio from Brgy. Old Sagay was the Sinigayan Queen-Charity.
Aiera Beleganio from Brgy. Paraiso was the 1st Princess while Novelyn Solitano of Brgy. Bato was the 2nd Princess.
Solitano grabbed five minor and special awards including Best in Production Number, Best in Swimsuit, Miss Photogenic, Best in Festival Costume, and Best in Festival Costume Design.
Fabrica’s bet was also awarded as Best Evening Gown Design, Best in Talent, and Best in Advocacy while Apelacio was declared as Best in Evening Gown.
Sinigayan Queen is one of the highlights of the 29th Sinigayan Festival which will end on March 19, through the Sinigay sa Sagay Saot para sa Dunang Manggad at the City Public Plaza and closing concerts at the Sagay National High School grounds.
The show was produced by the Sagay Sigay Jaycees in partnership with the City Government of Sagay.*
