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[av_heading heading=’2018 Miss Iloilo Dinagyang candidates strut in their festive costumes’ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=” av-medium-font-size-title=” av-small-font-size-title=” av-mini-font-size-title=” av-medium-font-size=” av-small-font-size=” av-mini-font-size=” admin_preview_bg=”]
BY CAROLYN JANE ABELLO
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January 13, 2018
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ILONGGOS were in full support of the pre-pageant activities of the Miss Iloilo Dinagyang Festival – flocking in crowds during the Costume Competition held at the Iloilo Business Park Festive Walk on Jan. 6.
The event kicked off with a costume parade led by the 13 candidates, which started at the Iloilo Convention Center and ended at the Festive Walk activity center.
According to event chairman Alex Gonzales Soncio, the main purpose of Miss Iloilo Dinagyang is to promote tourism and bolster the economy of Iloilo City.
“The event shows how colorful and artistic our culture can be. The evening will highlight our festivity, our tradition, our history, and the creativity of the Ilonggos,” said Soncio during his remarks.
In behalf of Mayor Jose Espinosa III, Ben Benito Jimena – former head of Iloilo City Tourism and Development Office –opened the program with a warm opening speech.
“We have tried to make Dinagyang a masterpiece of our culture and heritage, yet we sometimes forget that the Ilonggos are a beautiful people,” Jimena said. “The candidates of the Miss Iloilo Dinagyang, beautiful ladies of Iloilo, highlight the beauty of our people.”
Every contestant was paired with a designer, Soncio sharing that he is proud to present the works of these Ilonggo artists to a greater audience.
After 7 years of handling this event, Soncio shares that this is the first time there are more than 10 candidates participating.
The pageant has five pre-pageant events, first is the Fantasy Make-Up event; second is Casual Wear runway, followed by the Talent and Costume competitions. Last but not the least will be the Swimwear competition set to be held on Jan. 13. The awarding and coronation night will be on Jan. 20.
The board of judges for the Costume competition consists of both designers and public figures: Jor-el Espina, Joenie Barredo, Doctor Eden Deriada, Mr. Benito Jimena, and Robert Alor.
Contestants Jessamyne Javier, Czynni Ynaiz Rean Miranda, Mary Rose Alayon, Demi Patria Jainga, Kristin Cassandra Cambronero, Brazzirie Yanson, Ruffa Nava, Dana Diana, Cherry Joy Sulit, Sheena Alcantara, Patricia Mae Delos Reyes, Ma. Yvonne Galo and Maria Liza Lizada showcased their colorful and elegant costumes to cheering crowds on Jan. 6.
The Irong-Irong Dance Company of West Visayas State University also entertained the audience during the evening with their dances depicting the culture and tradition of Iloilo./PN
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