GRACE, intelligence, and a strong advocacy for heritage and progress carried Belle Kate Gatilogo of Sibunag to the Miss Guimaras 2026 crown during the pageant night held on May 17, one of the major highlights of this year’s Manggahan Festival.
A graduate of Bachelor of Science in Management Accounting from Central Philippine University, Gatilogo stood out among the candidates with her eloquence, composure, and clear vision for Guimaras’ future, ultimately earning the judges’ nod for the province’s most prestigious pageant title.
Her winning answer during the final question-and-answer round drew loud applause from the audience and reflected the spirit of this year’s festival theme, “Mangoes and More.”
Asked what makes Guimarasnons world-class beyond producing the world’s sweetest mangoes, Gatilogo underscored excellence, innovation, and responsible development.
“Here in Guimaras, we don’t just grow the sweetest mangoes, but we cultivate excellence,” she said.
She added that Guimarasnons continue to thrive by working together to protect their culture, people, and environment while embracing innovation and progress.
“When we dream of progress, we should act on it—turning every possibility into probability, and probability into every Guimarasnon’s reality,” she said.
Joining Gatilogo in the winners’ circle were Kin Alliyah Billote of Buenavista, who was named first runner-up, and Shiela Muya, also of Buenavista, who placed second runner-up.
Gatilogo’s win was warmly celebrated by Sibunagnons, who hailed her as a symbol of the town’s growing pride and prominence.
As Miss Guimaras 2026, she is expected to serve as an ambassador of the island province’s culture, tourism, and continued pursuit of progress anchored on heritage. (Photos from Manggahan Festival Facebook page)/PN
