IT’S a back to back victory for Jude Michael Villadolid after his fantasy-inspired costume modeled by Elona Jane Wilis bested six other finalists in this year’s grand finals of the Nights of Mardi Gras on Thursday.
Villadolid, who also bagged the championship last year, said his winning Mardi Gras costume was inspired by the samba carnival queen.
First runner-up. Designer: Joed Christian Custodio. BACOLOD CITY PIO 
Second runner-up. Designer: Ethel Donoso. BACOLOD CITY PIO
“Samba as a famous Brazilian dance known for its sultry and sexy movement that captivates the hearts of festival revelers. I used black as the dominant color of the costume as it accentuates the curve and sexiness of the bearer,” he added.
Joed Christian Custodio ’s design worn by Christy Jean Española was adjudged 1st runner-up, while Ethel Donoso’s costume modeled by Sam Basci was 2nd runner-up.
Christian Joed Custodio’s design worn by Jun Rey Garcia was 3rd runner-up, and Villadolid’s costume worn by Dinawher McQueen was declared 4th runner-up.
Third runner-up. Designer: Joed Christian Custodio. BACOLOD CITY PIO 
Fourth runner-up. Designer: Jude Chael. BACOLOD CITY PIO
According to festival director Eli Francis Tajanlangit, the lighted, fantasy-inspired costumes showcased Bacoleños’ creativity.
“We live with creativity, we do things with a sense of style and art,” he added.
Nights of Mardi Gras , a fantasy costume competition, is one of the highlights of the Ruby MassKara celebration.
For two nights, 32 models joined, with 12 contestants per night advancing to the finals.
Of the 12 finalists, four were declared winners. The eight non-winning finalists were given P1,500 each./PN
