Mrs. Cebu Philippines 2024 unveils 14 candidates

CEBU, Philippines — The Mrs. Cebu Philippines 2024 candidates channeled Audrey Hepburn during their September 1 sashing ceremony at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel’s Teatro Casino Filipino, donning outfits inspired by the late actress’ iconic black dress from her 1961 film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”.

Among the ladies present, 25-year-old Alva Joyce Cardenas from Dumanjug was selected Best in Audrey Hepburn Fit.

Cebu City South’s Hannah Grace Olbes, 28, was also named Darling of the Press for her engaging responses during the press conference. “When I was in high school and college, I was into public speaking, so I think it helped me win,” Olbes shared.

The rest of the contenders are Princess Aracelli Abella, 42, from Minglanilla; Ana Ruby Cañete, 45, of Barangay Quiot Pardo, Cebu City; Jay Maricor Carredo, 23, from Ginatilan; Manilyn Comaling, 30, from Argao; Jean Jamila Butaya, 45, from Liloan; Sandra Concillo, 29, from Pilar, Ponson Island Camotes; Ana Mae Gudao, 33, from Lapu-Lapu City; Claire De Guzman, 52, from Mandaue City; Liz Petallar, 41, from Danao City; and Leoneliz Tejero, 40, from Consolacion.

Completing the line-up are Cherie Mae Ocampo, 37, from Talisay City, and Queeny Rissa Ila, 26, from Brgy. San Nicolas Proper, Cebu City, though they were absent at the sashing ceremony due to prior commitments.

This year’s coronation night will be on November 28 at the Grand Pacific Ballroom of Waterfront Lahug.

Having a purpose

Gudao said she joined Mrs. Cebu Philippines to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a beauty queen. After giving birth at 21, she had no opportunities to join pageants until now. “I was pregnant at a young age and couldn’t join pageants. I’m so happy that there’s now a platform for mothers to join,” she said.

De Guzman felt the same, adding, “It’s been my dream to become a beauty queen, even at 52 years old.”

For Cañete, a cancer survivor, the beauty tilt offers an avenue to inspire fellow Big C warriors to thrive despite their illness. “I was diagnosed four years ago, and I want to encourage people that even if you’re battling an illness, you still have a purpose,” she said.

Abella also opened up about how her brother’s struggle with kidney failure motivated her to join the competition to raise awareness about the need for more dialysis centers in municipalities.

“Ten years ago, my brother was diagnosed with chronic kidney failure. I couldn’t stand seeing him going back and forth to the city from our hometown, knowing how much he was suffering,” she said. “With advances in technology, I hope the government will build dialysis centers in the provinces to ease the burden and cost for patients.”

Olbes hopes to use Mrs. Cebu Philippines to promote her advocacy for stay-at-home moms to pursue work-from-home opportunities. “I hope to provide training and help moms build careers from the comfort of their homes,” she said.

Promoting Cebu

Asked about changes they’d like to see for Cebuanos, Concillo suggested shifting from a skeptical mindset to one of positivity.

“Positive thinking can make a significant impact in our lives. It can help us understand the relationship between our thoughts and our kindness. To change your life, you must change your thinking,” said Concillo.

Cañete emphasized the power of a simple smile, saying, “Our smile can brighten the world wherever we go”, while Olbes pointed out the importance of highlighting Cebuanos' strong command of the English language for job opportunities. Cardenas, meanwhile, said Cebu’s rich culture and history should be further showcased.

Motherhood

When talk came to motherhood, Cardenas described it as a full-time career and just as challenging as any other job. “I’ve loved kids since I was a teen, and I was destined to become a mother,” she said. “Motherhood has no pay, no days off, and you work overtime. But it’s also the most fulfilling job. Being home, seeing those grateful faces makes it all worthwhile. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Olbes agreed, calling motherhood the most beautiful experience despite its challenges. “It’s the most difficult job a woman can have, but no matter how hard it is, it’s made me more determined and resilient. It’s not just about you anymore – it’s about your family and children,” she said.

Cardenas stressed that motherhood shouldn’t limit women to their homes. “Everyone thinks that when you become a mom, your life ends. It doesn’t. It’s just the beginning. We can be more than wives, mothers, and partners. Women can contribute so much to society and the economy. We are more than just moms – we are women.”

For her fellow single mothers, Concillo had this to say: “I want them to know that it doesn’t matter where you came from or what your background is. As long as you’re determined to inspire others and proud of how strong you are, you can overcome anything. I salute all the mothers out there. I’m proud of us all.”