3 shine in Ms. Cebu 2013 pre-pageant

CEBU, Philippines - It’s one day away before the crowning of a new Miss Cebu, but before the big night, the 12 candidates had to hurdle a pre-pageant competition held Sunday night at the Ayala Center Cebu Activity Centre.

The ladies, looking chic wearing the latest collection of What a Girl Wants and accessories by Simply Cebuana, walked the runway before a casual interview with pre-pageant hosts Miss Cebu 2010 Reena Elena Malinao and Jonathan Cimafranca of ABS-CBN Cebu’s “Mag TV Na!”

For the Fun Wear segment, the girls changed into creations by young designers Roni Yu, Mique Yapching, Bree Esplanada and Rei Escario.

The Miss Cebu 2012 court also took centerstage led by reigning Miss Cebu Pierre Anther Infante, together with her first runner-up Rachelle Chloe Palang, second runner-up Ella Beverly Sarmago, third runner-up Jonnie Rose Louise Wee and fourth runner-up Herlie Kim Artugue (who, whispered to us by Vic Iyao of the Miss Cebu production team, plans to screen for Binibining Pilipinas).

Some pre-pageant interview highlights: 20-year-old Therese Christine Llamada said she does not feel pressured to equal or surpass her elder sister Teffanie Lene’s first runner-up placement back in 2011. “No pressure at all. I consider me and my sister two different individuals with different capabilities,” said the Nursing graduate who currently works as an English instructor.

Janessa Fe Alcarez displayed her skill with the Rubix Cube, solving the puzzle in not over a minute while managing to maintain her composure on stage.

Architecture student Jehanne Frances Dy named the Basilica del Sto. Niño Church as her favorite architectural structure because “it has stood the test of time and symbolizes our unity through our faith.”

Licensed interior designer Patricia Ann Estuart shared her dream to own a business that incorporates her three major interests which are designing, fashion and baking.

Model and licensed nurse Ely Rose Apple Angcon was also asked her dream job. “I want to have my own nursing home for Geriatrics, because I grew up having a close relationship with my grandparents,” said Angcon.

One of the heavy favorites, 19-year-old Maria Gigante said she chose to major in Philosophy because “I have a lot of questions, so I decided to find the answers for myself.” This aspiring architect-pilot said she had the privilege of traveling around Asia as a kid courtesy of her pilot father, and was thus inspired to follow in his footsteps so she can see more of what the world has to offer.

Three girls were awarded special citations for shining brighter than the rest. Miss Gems and Designs was Jehanne Frances Dy while Best in Fun Wear was Patricia Ann Estuart who donned a black and yellow cocktail dress by Bree Esplanada (also judged Best Fun Wear Designer).

Maria Gigante was named Miss PLDT, bringing home a cash prize of P10,000 and a luggage set. Pre-pageant judges were Miss Cebu production chairman and Cebu City Tourism Commissioner Philip Rodriguez, Miss Cebu 2009 Kris Tiffany Janson and PLDT Community Relations Head Evelyn del Rosario.

The Miss Cebu 2013 coronation night, happening 7 p.m. tomorrow at the Pacific Grand Ballroom of Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Lahug, will be hosted by Mr. World 2012 first runner-up and Philippine Volcanoes athlete Andrew Wolff.

West End performer Leo Tavarro Valdez (a three-time Aliw Awardee for Best Performer of the Year) will serenade the ladies during the aqua-themed evening gown segment. –/JMO (FREEMAN)