BY MARY JOY CAVAÑAS
ILOILO – The province of Iloilo will be crowning its newest “Lin-ay” this Friday, Oct. 20, at 1 p.m. at the University of San Agustin auditorium.
“Lin-ay” is the Hiligaynon word for a young lady.
The “Lin-ay sang Iloilo” beauty pageant is a search for a young Ilongga lady who embodies the admirable virtues of a Filipina.
Twenty ladies from different municipalities, promoting unique Ilonggo culture, arts, history, and tourism, are vying for the Lin-ay sang Iloilo 2023 crown.
The participants are Joan Aguirre (Ajuy), Sherna Mae Andea (Alimodian), Laifair Klynx Donguilan (Anilao), Dayna Javelin Balisi (Balasan), Zeny Triunfo (Banate), Lyka Shane Balofiños (Barotac Viejo), Gleza Jean Isaac (Batad), Althea Gwen Magbanua (Bingawan), Raniella Louise Aguila (Cabatuan), Zuellen Faye Cerbo (Calinog), Tyryna Estelle Juls Oquias (Concepcion), Kiela Therese Labro (Dueñas), Fritzie Louise Pardo (Dumangas), Jessica Mae Gatungay (Guimbal), Enid Fundales (Leganes), Wayncy Nagpaton (Miagao), Dexy Dawn Pedrosa (New Lucena), Andrea Gail Canto (Oton), Zoe Kyra Belandres (Pavia) and Ma. Krystel Miranda (San Enrique).
According to JJ Patubo, president of the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, candidates must be title holders from any beauty pageant organized by their respective local government unit (LGU).
This is the 11th year of the pageant, Patubo added.
Patubo expressed hope that this would inspire other LGUs in the province to organize their own pageants, providing their representatives with platforms to promote various advocacies. (With a report from RMN Iloilo)/PN