Castillo, 20, nicknamed "Sunshine," received a plaque in recognition for her accomplishments. Vicencio gave her a red carpet reception at his office at the city hall the other day.
Also with the mayor to greet Castillo, who hails from Barangay Tugatog, was his wife Florinda, rumored to be running for mayor in the 2004 elections.
Castillo, a Bachelor of Science in Math graduate at De La Salle University (DLSU), was with her proud parents, Jaime and Elizabeth.
In his brief welcome speech, Vicencio said the beauty is a potential winner in the coming Miss Asia Pacific beauty tilt.
"She is a great honor for the city and an example of the modern Maria Clara endowed with intelligence and rare beauty," Vicencio said.
Castillo, in response, expressed her appreciation and gratitude to Vicencio and everyone who supported her in the competition. – Jerry Botial