Lubuagan wins Miss Kalinga 2025

MS. KALINGA 2025, Fatima Rose Peralta

 

LUBUAGAN, Kalinga – Folks of this town are celebrating as the most-coveted beauty crown in in the province was won by the municipality for the first time since the separation of Kalinga and Apayao in 1995.

Fatima Rose Peralta, a first-year college student taking Bachelor of Science in Criminology at the Kalinga State University, gracefully walked and brilliantly answered her way to the Miss Kalinga 2025 title in Bulanao, Tabuk City on Feb. 10.

Other Lubuagan beauties brought home the Miss Kalinga - Apayao title before, but it was Fatima who brought the Miss Kalinga crown to the municipality for the first time according to the Lubuagan Municipal Information Office.

Fatima wrapped up the grand coronation night with Miss Kalinga 2024 Audrey Magallis passing her the crown after her take on the final question got the nod of the judges and wowed the crowd.

The question: ‘Miss Kalinga’s theme is elevating timeless beauty and elegance. As the next Miss Kalinga 2025, how has this theme guided your journey towards winning the Miss Kalinga 2025?’

Fatima said she had never felt empowered until she joined the Search for Miss Kalinga, saying that the theme elevating timeless beauty and elegance reflects women’s sophistication, and that comes from being true to one’s self.

“I believe that in joining in this pageantry, I have found what really makes me feel beautiful and confident and that is being authentic of who you are,” she said.

The newly crowned Miss Kalinga likewise took home with her the Best in Creative Attire and Best in Evening Gown awards.

Fatima shared during the competition that she had seen how difficult life can be for the less fortunate, narrating she used to sell snacks, vegetables, and fruits just to help her family make ends meet.    

“…putting this within my mind and heart, it allows me to open my eyes how beautiful life is – allowing me to persevere, to work harder, and always see the beauty of every instances. Ultimately, as an aspiring Miss Kalinga, I want you to take my story as another inspiration that would contain you to resonate and empower others,” she said.

Other ladies who took home crowns and titles at the grand coronation night included Ezra Kiser Lagasi of Tabuk City who was hailed the Miss Kalinga Tourism 2025; Claire Baguitan of Rizal, Miss Kalinga Environment 2025. Meantime, Ehdrian Nicole Pinated, sponsored by the Pallayoc Clan, won first-runner up, while Mary Ann Solog of Tinglayan was second-runner up.

 For the minor and corporate awards: Jemmae Biangdan who was sponsored by the Kilos Mamamayan Ngayon na Partylist was cited Miss EA Aesthetic Choice; Fanlee Valdez of Pasil and Christine Joy Bagwingan who was sponsored by Sustainable Livelihood Program were Miss Personal Collection; Guiajill Garrino of Balbalan, Miss Congeniality; Ezra Kiser Lagasi, Best in Talent and Best in Native Attire; Angel Destiny Garcia who was sponsored by Caroline Cares, Miss Photogenic; and Claire Baguitan was awarded with Best in Swimsuit.

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Loakan Proper lass crowned Miss Baguio

BAGUIO CITY -- An 18-year old lass from Loakan Proper barangay was crowned as this Year’s Miss Baguio during the Coronation Night held at the Baguio Convention Center Aug. 26. 
    Janah Rhyl B. Lumidao bested 17 other candidates aspiring for the coveted crown that paved the way for her to become the city’s ambassadress of goodwill.
    She is a senior high graduate of the University of Baguio (UB) who loves to actively participate in community activities and playing volleyball. She is also the former 2021 Miss Ifugao and a taekwondo champion.
    Justine Tarah Marie Valencia, 22, of barangay Lower Quirino-Magsaysay, who graduated cum laude in the course Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management with specialization in International Tourism, was adjudged Miss Baguio Turismo. She also bagged the Best in Long Gown, Miss Photogenic and Best in SwimWear awards in the said competition.
    Lumidao took home the P40,000 cash prize for this year’s Miss Baguio titleist aside from another P40,000 courtesy of Giraffe Boutique hotel, a trophy and gift certificates from the sponsors and a round trip ticket to Vietnam while Valencia settled for the P30,000 cash prize earmarked for the first runner up.
    Sophia Franchesca Cacho, 21 of Guisad Surong barangay, and a student of Bachelor of Science in Psychology was crowned Miss Baguio Kalikasan. She took home P25,000 in cash and gift certificates from the various sponsors.
    Eula Arielle Paltep, 21, of barangay Camp 7 and a student of Bachelor of Science in tourism Management major in Travel Industry management was crowned Miss Baguio Kulutura. She took home P15,000 in cash and gift certificates from the sponsors. She was also the former Miss University of the Cordillera Green Ambassador 2022 and a university scholar.
    Norainne Azarcon, 20, a student of Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy was crowned Miss Baguio Malikhain. She was one of the 12 finalists in the Limgas na Pangasinan 2023. She took home the P10,000 cash prize and gift certificates from the sponsors.  She was also adjudged as the Miss Amedia Personality.

Camille Desumala, 25, of barangay Sto. Tomas Proper barangay and a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Nursing took home the Miss Social Graces award while Mericar Togana, 26, of barangay Asin Road and an education graduate as well as a law student was adjudged as the Darling of the Press. -- Dexter A. See

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Movie stars wow crowd in Panagbenga Festival

BAGUIO CITY -- Movie stars spiced up the grand floral parade of the 27th edition of the Panagbenga flower festival as they rode floats paraded from Session Road up to Melvin Jones football field here Feb. 26.
    The grand floral parade, which featured flower-inspired floats, passed through a 4-km route.
    Residents and tourists converged along the parade route as early as 3 a.m. to get vantage view of beautifully decorated floats escorted by winners of the street dance competition.
    The crowd applauded the floats, which were accompanied by drum-and-lyre and dance groups.
    The star-studded parade saw 2020 Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo board one of the floats of the Baguio Country Club.
    Former basketball star-turned-actor Benjie Paras and his son Andrei boarded the float of Palawan Express.
    Actress Cristine Reyes and actors Marco Gumabao and Kyle Belino rode the promotional float of their movie "Martyr or Murderer."
    The float, which resembled a coffin and heavily criticized by netizens, was reportedly not among those lined up as part of the parade.
    "Batang Quiapo" star Sen. Lito Lapid and his son Mark, the chief operating officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, were on board the float of Tieza, an attached agency of the Dept. of Tourism.
    Fellow Batang Quiapo star Lovi Poe was one of the most cheered movie stars who joined the grand floral parade, boarding the float of Eegor Skin Depot.    
    On Feb. 27, Session Road, the city's main thoroughfare, was closed to vehicular traffic until March 5.
It was converted into a promenade area with sidewalk cafes and stalls that offered flower-inspired handicrafts to visitors, shoes, clothes, novelty items and food.
    This year, 24 floats joined the parade.
 
 

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Pangasinense Phl pride for making Ms Universe gown

DAGUPAN, Pangasinan -- The Philippines may not have won the Miss Universe crown but Filipino creativity and talent shone brightest at the 71st Miss Universe. Filipinos, including a Pangasinense, dominated the Miss Universe scene in other ways than just winning the crown.
    A number of Filipino fashion designers created stunning outfits for the international delegates of the pageant.
A Pangasinense designer, Rian Fernandez, made a big splash on the universal stage and became the talk of the pageant industry for creating the gown of Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel, who is half-Pinoy.
    Gabriel made history by becoming the first Filipino American to win Miss Universe.
    Fernandez was behind her stunning pieces — from her local to state, national to international competitions.
"We don't just have a client-designer relationship. We are like family. And I am more than happy to see them succeed," he said in an interview.
    For this, the provincial government of Pangasinan has recognized Fernandez, 38, who was originally from Alcala town, for showcasing the talent of a Pangasinense.
    The Sangguniang Panlalawigan passed a resolution on Monday authored by Board Members Rosary Gracia Perez-Tababa and Nicholi Jan Louie Sison to recognize Fernandez's talent and honor his achievement.
    "The provincial government of Pangasinan constantly recognizes the achievements of outstanding Pangasinenses for their valuable service to the Filipino people and laudable contributions to the nation," the resolution reads.

Fernandez finished a degree in Communication Arts at the Saint Louis University in Baguio City and became a member of the university's theater group, which in turn ignited his passion for designing costumes.

Also inspired by his grandmother, a seamstress, he pursued fashion studies at LaSalle College of the Arts in Singapore and is a member of the Council of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Fashion Designers.

His ensemble was featured in Vogue Italia magazine, and a piece of his garment was exhibited in "Music Through Your Veins" in London.

He also obtained awards such as Designer of the Year in the Indrajark International 2019 in Bangkok, Thailand; was named as one of the Best Designers of the Northern Philippines; and was Outstanding Designer during Pilipinas Fashion and Style Week 2018.

He is one of the sought-after designers in Thailand and has launched his personal protective clothing line at Times Square in New York City.

This year's Miss Universe competition was a sweet victory for his career.

"You have to do the things that you love and you will never have to work a day in your life. There is perfect timing for everything. If it's not now, maybe some other time, you can blossom," he said.

On Instagram, Fernandez shared the meaning of the gown, which he named "Phenomenal Queen."

He said that the color black represents "competence and sophistication," while the gunmetal accents "epitomize strength and remarkable resilience" of the beauty queen.

Fernandez also noted that the black onyx and the glass mirror drops symbolize reflection and self-growth, adding that the fringe skirt and blue sapphire Swarovski stones stand for the movement of life and the new era of emerging women, respectively.

In one of her interviews, Gabriel, a fashion designer herself, expressed her gratitude to Fernandez who designed all of her gowns.

"Thank you, Rian, for making this beautiful dress. Maraming salamat po!" she said.

 

 

 

 

 

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Catriona Gray experiences Ilocos Norte

MISS UNIVERSE 2018 Catriona Gray visits Ilocos Norte last week to experience  Ilokano way of life and explore attractions of the province for her vlog series “Raise Your Flag.” -- Edison Justin B. Deus / PGIN-CMO

By Edison Justin B. Deus

LAOAG CITY -- Miss Universe 2018 titleholder Catriona Gray visited Ilocos Norte Nov. 11 to 14  to experience the Ilokano way of life and explore attractions of the province for her vlog series "Raise Your Flag."
    Hosting her were the provincial government of Ilocos Norte’s Tourism Office and Communications and Media Office, local government units and homegrown accommodations and food establishments that served as sponsors.
    The "Raise Your Flag" team was welcomed by Batac City officials where Gray and Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc learned to make and cook the city’s world-famous empanada.
    As a wartime invention, this famous delicacy gives insights into the values of the Ilokano people, as well as their capacity to innovate.
    “Raise Your Flag IlocosNorte has kicked off. Ilocos has long been on my bucket list to feature for my Raise Your Flag series at hindi ito yung first time ko sa region, pero magiging first time ko to truly immerse myself in the culture, traditions, sights and foods of the North," she said in her post.
    The first day of Gray’s visit to the province immediately trended on social media as it sparked a hilarious online debate after she was spotted eating the empanada with ketchup.
    Many netizens argued the snack was better paired with sukang Iloko, a locally produced vinegar.
Gray also visited Mrs. Magdalena Gamayo, a master weaver and “national living treasure,” at the Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan Cultural Center in Pinili town.
    "I don’t find myself welling up with tears for many things. But watching Nana Magdalena sitting at her loom, at the graceful age of 98, naiiyak ako."
    Her hands have literally woven tradition...the hands of a national living treasure. I'm so honored to have met her and witnessed her craft with my own eyes," Gray said.
    Throughout her stay, she wore dresses made by local designers using inabel, Ilocos Norte’s handwoven heritage fabric.
    "Raise Your Flag" also featured the UNESCO World Heritage site of St. Augustine’s Church, the Paseo de Paoay, and the Ilocos Norte Sand Dunes in Paoay town. In addition, the Bangui Wind Farm and the Kaangrian Falls in Burgos were also promoted.
    The coast of Barangay Saud in Pagudpud town will be featured in the series.
    In April 2021, it was listed in the "25 Most beautiful beaches in the world" by the Travel and Leisure International magazine for "its white sand which pitches gradually into the clear-as-glass water, like a real-world example of a zero-entry swimming pool."
    While in said town, Ms. Gray also visited DelMar Shellcrafts Multi-purpose Cooperative, which specializes in handicrafts made by women in the community.
    Anticipate the premiere of the episode of "Raise Your Flag," featuring the province of Ilocos Norte, on Gray's official YouTube channel.

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Baguio beauty queens cited for winning nat’l Phl, int’l awards

BAGUIO CITY -- City officials commended “Baguio girls” Marikit A. Manaois for being crowned the 2022 Aliwan Fiesta Digital Queen and 2016 Miss International, movie actress and model Kylie F. Verzosa,  for winning Best Actress in the 6th Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards held Nov. 4 at Dubai Creek Harbor Marina, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
    In a resolution, the city council stated that showing both beauty and wit, Ms. Manaois serves as an inspiration to all young ladies not only making her family proud but the entire city as well with this accomplishment.
    Aliwan Fiesta is an annual event that gathers different cultural festivals of the country in Star City Complex in Pasay City that highlights tourism, among others.
    The council claimed that due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, its Reyna ng Aliwan has gone digital similar to other local, national and international competitions.
    Ms. Manaois is a graduate of St. Louis University (SLU) here, where she completed her degree in Business Administration major in Human Resource Development Management.
    At present, she is currently working as a zero-waste ambassador in a waste treatment company.
    She has also been active in both academic and non-academic activities where she was achieved honors in both.

In another resolution, city councilors stated that the city where Ms Verzosa was born and raised is truly proud of the award bestowed by an international body on her.

Further, the body claimed the award symbolizes not only the recognition of the outstanding performance of an actor or an actress but is an acknowledgement of the presence, talents and dynamism of the Filipinos.

Ms. Verzosa was born in Baguio City to spouses Ari and Racquel Verzosa.

She graduated high school from the St. Louis University (SLU) and Ateneo de Manila University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management.

She was also a pre-school teacher at one point in her life. She initially won the Bb. Philippines 2016 title and was eventually crowned Miss International 2016 at Tokyo, Japan.

Later, she joined the movie industry and subsequently starred in several movies and television shows.

The movie ‘The Housemaid’ is a Philippine adoption of the Korean movie of the same title which was released in 2021. The original Korean movie version was released in Korea in 1960.

Ms. Verzosa played the lead role which earned for her the Best Actress Award for her acclaimed performance in the said movie.

The Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards (DIAFA) is an annual award that honors distinguished international and Arab personalities in recognition of their annual achievements and contribution towards the betterment of communities and society. It is one of the best-known awards being given in Dubai.

Ms. Verzosa was recognized for her acting prowess. She dedicated the award to her fellow Filipinos who continue their sacrifices in other lands to provide for their family. By Dexter A. See

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Ms Tuguegarao bets vie for Darling of the Press plum

By Vince Jacob Visaya

TUGUEGARAO CITY -- Showing not only their beautiful faces and sexy bodies, 20 Miss Tuguegarao City 2022 bets displayed their wits and intellect as they vied for the Darling of the Press award at the SM Center Tuguegarao Downtown on Monday, August 8.
    And they did not disappoint.
    Answering queries from the media, the candidates said Tuguegarao women exude positivity, unity, credibility and serve as inspiration to others. Others said local women should show confidence, empower themselves and manifest self-confidence.
    The bets also shared their views on the Covid-19 pandemic, fake news, environmental protection, sexual harassment, early marriage, teenage pregnancy, illegal drugs and other concerns.
    The winner of the Darling of the Press award shall be announced during the pre-pageant on August 12, one of the highlights of the grand coronation on August 13.
    Dr. James Guzman, beauty pageant chairman and incumbent city health officer, said minimum health standards shall be observed throughout the event due to the continuing threat of Covid-19.
    "After two years of hiatus, this is a time to bring the beauties back, but we are still adhering to minimum health protocols," he said.

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Laoag City bet crowned Miss Ilocos Norte 2022

LAOAG CITY -- Keith Alawag of this city was crowned Miss Ilocos Norte 2022, in front of a live audience for the first time since the pandemic at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena night of May 6.
    The 21-year-old Ilokana is a budding actress and a micro-influencer who advocates for geriatric care, saying caring for older people is a great responsibility and gratitude for allowing the present generation to enjoy life.
    In addition to the main title, Alawag got three special awards, including the Sirib Award, best in Terno and best in swimsuit.
    For the final question and answer portion, Alawag was asked by Sass Rogando Sasot, a Netherlands-based political realist and blogger as well as the chairwoman of the judging panel, “The Ilokano community can be found all around the world. Given the chance to live abroad, what can’t you live without from Ilocos Norte and why? ”
    Alawag answered, “If there is one thing that I can’t live without from Ilocos Norte is the community itself, the Ilokanos. I believe that the Ilokanos are beyond compare that wherever you go around the world, you cannot really find Ilokano, the Ilokano traits…”
    Meanwhile, Miss Ilocos Norte 2022 1st runner up was Sophia Noreen Guillermo of Dingras.
    Second runner up was Fhebe Kate Ballesteros of Sarrat while 3rd runner up was Alliah Gwyn Romero of Batac City.
    Fourth Runner Up was Marianne Abigail Pagdilao of Pinili.
    Gracing the occasion, Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc related an anecdote of his grandmother, former congresswoman Imelda R. Marcos who was also a former beauty queen, about putting one's "best foot forward" as a gesture of respect.
    “We celebrate that same spirit, not only in terms of beauty but also in terms of putting our best foot forward and representing the very best of the Ilokana.
     “Each woman brings pride to her hometown while illustrating the beauty and greatness of the Ilokana. After all, the Ilokana is the very backbone and foundation of our communities. Tonight, we celebrate and appreciate beauty, culture, and the Ilokana.”
    Manotoc cited those behind the Miss Ilocos Norte pageant, who showcased the province's design, fashion, tourism, and culture. – PGIN-CMO
 

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Miss Universe Phl 2021 candidate tests positive for Covid

By Victor Martin 

GAPAN, Nueva Vizcaya — A candidate in the Miss Universe Philippines 2021 beauty pageant has tested positive for Covid.
Gianne Kryssee Asuncion, who represents the province of Cagayan, revealed in a post on social media last week that she contracted the virus, according to the Cagayan provincial information office.
    This, as Cagayan recorded 3,871 active infections, bringing the total number of cases in the province to 27, 104.
CPIO chief Rogie Sending said Asuncion’s post came after beauty pageant officials announced the top 50 candidates in the runway and video challenges on the same day.
    Asuncion is one of the candidates to be interviewed virtually by the judges of the Miss Universe Philippines for the selection of the final top 30, who will compete at the coronation night on Sept. 25.
    “I was speechless for days. With the discovery of being Covid-positive with pneumonia, I didn’t know how to react. I didn’t know what’s the next  thing that could happen,” Asuncion said.
    Asuncion, who is recovering in a hospital, said she is taking necessary precautions to recover from the disease.
    “But you see, this fear of the unknown can’t stop me. It might be hard, but all I know is I will heal. I will get better. Tuloy ang laban,” she said.

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KC Concepcion sorry for partying in Baguio

By Heidi Hsia

BAGUIO CITY – Actress KC Concepcion recently took some time to write a long apology on social media, after she was blasted online for not wearing a mask during good friend Tim Yap's birthday party on Jan. 17.
    The actress, who along with others were fined P 1,500 for violating Covid-19 protocols, posted her apology on Jan. 30, writing,     "Taking the time to thank our nurses, doctors, frontliners and caregivers who have been working hard since the beginning of last year. To be honest, we are all still getting used to our new normal. I quarantined solo for three months, not leaving my house, trying to be strong home alone to keep myself and others safe, and had no one at home to lean on. Mentally, it was taking its toll, which it did on so many of us regular people, but most especially on our frontliners who have been working nonstop to keep our communities safe. Thank you."
    "I do agree that keeping a mask on and not letting our guards down is the least we citizens could do. I personally apologize for not having kept my mask on 100 [percent] of the time during a gathering. It has been two weeks since then and I hope we can move forward with lessons learned about safety protocols indoors or outdoors when in a crowd. I understand the panic. And I would react in a similar way," she wrote.
    Concepcion admitted that the pandemic situation is tiring everybody and that they all have different struggles and ways of coping.
    "There are days that you're up, and there are days when you're down. There are days that you're strong, and days when you fail. But one thing is for sure, we can all learn from everyday experiences, and from each other. Nobody is perfect, revenge travel is truly a thing, and in as much as we would like to break free from chains and restrictions to try and keep sane, no. We need to travel more responsibly. We need to gather more responsibly. Stay focused and patient. We can get through this together. In the meantime, we should take care of our mental health, always, as much as the physical, no matter what Find things that make you happy. Rest when your mind and body need it. Eat healthy, be active, stay alert."

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DOT probes celebrity party; Magalong sorry

BAGUIO CITY — The Dept. of Tourism Cordillera Administrative Region said it was investigating a party of celebrities here at Camp John Hay which Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and his wife attended recently.
    Social media users criticized the event with some saying application of Covid-19  protocols were in favor of the rich while poor and ordinary Baguio folks were subjected to stringent rules.
    Following this, Magalong tendered his resignation as contact tracing czar but Malacanang denied this.  
     “Tao lang po tayo, sometimes we are just so engaged in one particular activity... minsan nakakalimutan din po natin,” Magalong told a radio interview.
    Her apologized for what happened.
    He said he and his wife attended the event to thank celebrator Tim Yap, and his group for helping local artists and promoting their tourism.
    A video showing Yap and his guests dancing and not wearing face masks and face shields went viral.
    Magalong’s wife was seen not wearing a face mask as she posed for a photo with actress KC Concepcion.
    Netizens chided Magalong for his “double standard” in implementing quarantine protocols.
    In a statement, the DOT-CAR said it was investigating the party. “A notice to explain has already been issued to the establishment,” the govnerment agency said Wednesday.
    The Public Information Office of Baguio also said the city government  gave the “hotel 72 hours to explain why it should not be sanctioned over celebrity party protocol breach.”
    Magalong, who also sits as the country’s contact tracing czar, on Wednesday admitted there were lapses in the observance of health protocols in a party organized by Yap, an eventologist and social media personality.
    The party at The Manor, was attended by several guests who appeared to have disobeyed health protocols like physical distancing and wearing masks, as seen on videos shared in social media.
    While many guests were compliant, Magalong said some violated minimum health protocols.
    “Meron pa rin. Even my wife violated it kasi nagtanggal yan because may picture-taking,” Magalong said in an interview over Teleradyo. “May picture-taking, may umiikot na picture-taking, syempre siguro sa excitement, yung iba na-excite, nagtatanggal ng masks pampicture picture. Pero ako po, lagi akong nakamask.”
(There is. Even my wife violated it because she removed her mask due to the picture-taking. There were picture-taking, a photographer was roaming to take photos, but maybe because of excitement, some removed their masks for pictures. But I always wore mine.)
    This was his answer when he was asked: “In your observation, would you categorically say na wala pong naging paglabag sa minimum health standards?”
    Despite this, Magalong said there are moments where people forget to comply with health protocols, especially when there are events as such.
    “Nagkataon lang po na tao lang po tayo na sometimes when we’re so engaged in a particular po na activity na masayahin, minsan nakakalimutan po natin,” he said.
     “Meron po kaming ordinansa na ipinapatupad na pag hindi ka nagwear ng mask while in a public place, you have to be fined… This is something na iniimbestigahan ng aming legal officer,” Magalong said.
(We have an ordinance that if you don’t wear a mask while in a public place, you have to be fined. This is something already being investigated by our legal officer.)
    Magalong said Yap and his group went to our art exhibit and they bought a lot of art, paintings from local artists who have been struggling.
    “And then tinawagan po ako if I could attend the party so pumunta po kami doon ng wife ko to thank them,” he said.
(And then they called us if I could attend the party so I went there with my wife to thank them.)
    In a televised interview on Tuesday night, Yap confirmed that he organized the reported “party” at a 5,000-square meter outdoor area of The Manor.
    Yap said that he and the guests followed health and safety protocols of Baguio and of the establishment.
    He also claimed that videos circulating were edited, saying guests took off their masks since they were about to eat dinner.
    However, he claimed this was followed by an unexpected cultural community dance that was captured in an Instagram story that has gone viral.
    “Everything looks like it was a party but it was edited to be that way but if you will see the other days that we were together,” Yap told CNN Philippines.
    “What actually happened behind this video. They are on their way to have their dinner. All of a sudden, a cultural dance happened and so the cultural dancer pulled everybody... we got carried away and we invited everybody to do the cultural community dance,” he said.

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Cordilleran wins Ms Earth – Water crown

By Redjie Melvic Cawis

BESAO, Mountain Province -- Miss Philippines Earth Roxanne Allison Baeyens who traces her roots from this remote town, was named Miss Earth - Water 2020 during the virtual pageant held over the weekend.
    Miss USA Lindsey Coffey was crowned as the Miss Earth 2020, Miss Denmark as Miss Earth Fire and Miss Venezuela as Miss Earth Air 2020.
    Cordilleran beauty Baeyens was also named Jewel Beauty Strong Earth, and won the Best in Talent (Dance Category) and Best in Long Gown.
    During the competition held on line on Sunday, Baeyens wore a gown called “Highland Maiden” made by Rian Fernandez and inspired by the Rice Terraces of the Cordilleras.
    “This gown is carefully handcrafted to perfection and inspired with the Rice Terraces of the majestic Cordilleras of the     Philippines creating a social balance of the landscape of great beauty that expresses the harmony between mankind and the environment. The bodice depicts the high rice fields of the Ifugao and the skirt represents the contours of the mountains. This Rian Fernandez masterpiece reminds us the sacred tradition to continuously ensure the sustainability and conservation of this living cultural treasure over time,” he model turned beauty queen stated in her social media account.
    In her acceptance message, Baeyens thanked the organizers for the journey of the Miss Earth despite these trying times.
    “I'm just so grateful for the entire experience and of course to the Miss Earth organization for making us find power in our voices to continue our advocacy during this trying time where the world needs it the most and I can't wait for me and my eco queen sisters to have an amazing reign,” she said.
    The 23-year old Cordilleran beauty who was crowned in July 2020 in the first virtual pageant and coronation of the Miss Earth Philippines, believes that she won the crown through her advocacy on urban gardening that she learned and loved from her mother.  
    Baeyens had been advocating urban gardening and agriculture. In September, Baeyens became the “poster girl” for highland agriculture in the Cordillera which aims to help the Dept. of Agriculture promote urban dairying, organic native pig, Arabica coffee production and chicken production in the region thru their new advocate. She also promoted Cordillera agricultural products and helped to influence and encourage the youth to be engaged in agriculture. 
    She also helped in the campaign of urban agriculture initiatives of the DA which is implemented through the “Plant, Plant Plant” program to secure food for urban families especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. 
    In October, Baeyens joined DA Secretary William Dar to promote the “Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita” program of the DA which directly links the farmers and fisherfolks including the farmers cooperatives and associations to the buying public thru the facilitation of the DA and the support of the private sector. – PIA Cordillera  

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Palace ‘respects’ Sagada execs’ rejection of SONA video shoot

By Azer Parrocha and Gina Dizon 

MALACANANG on Tuesday said it respects the decision of the municipality of Sagada, Mountain Province to reject the request of a delegation from Malacañang Presidential Broadcast Staff (MPBS), including director Joyce Bernal, to shoot videos in the famous tourist spot amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said while the team had secured health certificates and travel authorities, they complied with the rules of the Sagada local government.

“Rinespeto naman ni Joyce Bernal at ng RTVM ang desisyon ng Sagada. Inuulit ko po, meron namang pong health certificate at travel authority po si Joyce Bernal at ang mga kasama niya pero nung hindi sila pinapasok, di naman po sila nagpumilit (Joyce Bernal and RTVM respect the decision of Sagada. I repeat, they have health certificates and travel authorities but when they were not allowed to enter, they did not insist),” he said.

In a Facebook post on Monday, the Sagada local government said the request of the RTVM was rejected both by the Office of the Sagada Mayor and the Sagada Municipal Disaster Risk and Management Office.

They disclosed that Bernal’s team sent an email about the conduct of the video shoot to the Office of the Sagada mayor “after office hours” on July 3.

It also said Bernal and her team will be arriving in Sagada by night of July 5.

The Sagada officials, however, only received word that Bernal’s team will be arriving on July 5.

This prompted the Officer in Charge and  Vice Mayor  Felicito Dula  and the Municipal Disaster Risk and Management Officer (MDRRMO) Aida Abeya to convene a meeting with the Local Covid-19 Task Force which ultimately decided against the request of Bernal and her team.

“While the meeting was ongoing, the advance party of Direk Joyce were being escorted by our Phil. National Police to Sagada Cellar Door where they will be staying, after the management of Sagada Heritage Village turned them down following the local guideline that all tourism establishments continue to be suspended/closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” the post read.

Sagada Heritage Village is near the famed Sumaguing Caves.

The Sagada LGU also wrote a letter to Bernal's team, saying the strict implementation on the entry of persons coming outside Mountain Province to Sagada has been effective in maintaining a Covid-19-free community.

"Sagada, being a 5th-class municipality, is not ready, specifically our health facilities, to accommodate the presence of a Covid-19 positive case in the locality," the letter read.

Bernal and her group are now filming the video-scenic backdrop for the SONA in Baguio City.

Both Sagada mayors James ‘Payko’ Pooten Jr. and John Wesley Dulawan of Ifugao said Bernal’s team was barred from filming in their towns to protect their constituents’ health and lives.

SAgada Vice Mayor Felicito Dula  in a letter to Fern Castro, coordinator of Bernal’s team, said the health and safety of the town’s constituents were crucial and needed to be ensured.

               Escorted by police, the team left town 10 a.m. of June 6 after spending the night at Cedar Door.

The Sagada IATF, in a letter to Bernal’s group cited Sangguniang Bayan resolution No 110 series of 2020 governing tourism commerce and industry in Sagada during the covid-19 pandemic.

This included closure and suspension of tourism activities such as booking of guests  by establishments, all tourist sites  and other concerns related to tourism and non-entry of non-residents to the town coming from ‘red areas’.

Metro Manila where the team came from is a ‘red’ district area with 20,100 Covid-19 infected persons and 865 deaths as of July 5.

Local officials said the team reportedly entered to Sagada showing a letter to local officials from Malacanang Presidential Broadcast Staff-RTVM authorizing the travel of 14 persons to start production of video for the SONA signed by Dennis Wilfred Pabalan, PBS-RTVM executive director.

Marina Biag former president of the Sagada Inns and Homestays Association (SIHA) said there was an understanding among inns and homestays that they will not reopen while the Covid-19 pandemic was a threat.

Biag said she did not know of any inn or homestay which had a permit to operate.

The Department of Tourism in its Administrative Order 2020-002 provides, “all accommodation establishments that intend to commence commercial operations in community quarantine zones, whether for the accommodation of guests or operation of in-house food facilities for takeout or delivery services, shall secure a DOT Certificate of Authority to Operate prior to any operations.”

In said AO, “limited operations are observed under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) where accommodation establishments may undertake normal operations under MGCQ and may accommodate bookings of all guests, whether for work or leisure; provided, that operations shall be at 50% operational capacity only.”

Sagada is now under MGCQ status and has suspended tourism activities to include booking of guests in inns and homestays.

Cellar Door is not registered with the municipal government as a homestay or inn.

In his reply to Facebook when asked why Pascual was booked at Cellar Door, manager Andrew Chinalpan said Pascual and Bernal were friends so he and his wife accommodated them to their house.

Municipal disaster risk reduction management council officer Aida Abeya said the LGU denied the entry of Pascual and group in an earlier verbal communication on July 3.

Abeya said she was shocked when she learned that Pascual and four others were already in Sagada morning of July 5 and the rest to be arriving night of the same day which prompted the local IATF to meet and talk with Bernal.

Asked what documents the team was carrying to allow them entry to Sagada, PNP information officer Raffy Pinayakan said a letter from PBS-TRVM was shown them.

Sagada has no Covid case and had been following lockdown systems and 14-day quarantine protocols.

Right after leaving Sagada on July 6, the team proceeded to Banaue, Ifugao and were met at Mt. Polis at the boundary of Mountain Province and Ifugao.

They were denied to stay in Banaue when they requested permission to shoot in Barangay Battad.Banaue

Mayor Dulawan said town police escorted them out from the town up to the boundary of Mt. Amganad.

This, even if they presented documents from Malacanang they earlier presented to Sagada officials. According to Banaue police, the group travelled on to Baguio City after the incident.

Ramon Cabrera, general manager of Camp John Hay Manor in Baguio told local media the entourage of Bernal and Pascual checked in at the hotel on Monday night around 9:30 p.m. after going through triage process at Teachers Camp by presenting their health clearances and Malacanang documents.              

The Baguio City government said Bernal’s team was allowed to stay in Baguio because they followed health protocols.     

The team was reportedly earlier scheduled to visit Sagada and Bontoc towns of Mt. Province; Banaue, Ifugao; Kalinga, Abra and Baguio City

Meanwhile, Roque said President Duterte was expected to deliver his fifth SONA by either physically showing up at the House of Representatives Session Hall in Batasan Pambansa, or virtually.

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