Who will be crowned Lin-ay sang Iloilo?

ILOILO – Fifteen festival muses from across the province are set to compete for the coveted Lin-ay sang Iloilo 2025 crown as the grand coronation unfolds this Wednesday, Nov. 26, 3 p.m. at the City of Passi Arena.

The event, organized by the Association of Iloilo Tourism Officers, Inc. (AITO) led by Dr. Jose “JJ” Patubo with support from the provincial government through the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office (PCAHTO), highlights the province’s push to elevate cultural ambassadorship and empower young Ilonggas.

The 15 official candidates represent their towns’ signature festivals:

* Shania P. Sermonia – Tawili Festival, San Rafael

* Cathlyn Kae S. Rodrigo – Saad Festival, Leganes

* Lira E. Gico – Bantayan Festival, Guimbal

* Elissa Jayne F. Dely – Lechon Festival, Balasan

* Dyjie Laurice B. Yucor – Kasag Festival, Banate

* Lyra Angela T. Temperatura – Saludan Festival, Tigbauan

* Allesandra Keysha Emonaga – Saug Festival, Lemery

* Chrishia Khayrelle P. Tuvilla – Tambobo Festival, Ajuy

* May Ann P. Panes – Pintados de Pasi Festival, Passi City

* Joveline Grace E. Elpos – Tangyan Festival, Igbaras

* Janine F. Vasquez – Pandayan Festival, Badiangan

* Shiela C. Muya – Sulay Basya Festival, Sara

* Ira Kharylle L. Baylon – Tampisaw Festival, Concepcion

* Crystil Joy L. Sepaya – Katagman Festival, Oton

* Monice Vienne G. Centena – Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival, Calinog

The winner will not only wear the Lin-ay crown but will serve as Iloilo’s cultural ambassadress, with the opportunity to join national pageants if she meets the qualifications.

A crown rich in symbolism

This year’s crown is handcrafted by Carles-born artisan Michael Angelo Bangalisan Betita. Organizers describe it as “magnificent” and “handmade to symbolize province’s rich culture, history, arts, tourism, and the empowerment of its women.”

Its elements — including white crystals for purity, emerald green accents for harmony, floral motifs for unity, coral and pearl embellishments, and beads inspired by patadyong and hablon — pay tribute to Iloilo’s heritage.

Other titles up for grabs

Aside from the main crown, candidates will vie for:

* Lin-ay sang Turismo

* Lin-ay sang Maragtas

* Lin-ay sang Taliambong

* Lin-ay sang Panubli-on

Pre-pageant activities

The grand launching and sashing ceremony was held on Nov. 10, followed by the preliminary competition on Nov. 15 at SM City Iloilo, featuring talent, casual wear, and free speech categories.

Last year’s winners

In 2024, Alleh Gane Dela Cruz of Estancia took home the Lin-ay sang Iloilo crown. Other titleholders were:

* Rochelle Ann Lubguban (Ajuy) – Lin-ay sang Taliambong

* Leizel Marie Deysolong (Concepcion) – Lin-ay sang Turismo

* Mary Elizabeth Lozada (Dueñas) – Lin-ay sang Maragtas

* Yammika Nagae (Balasan) – Lin-ay sang Panublion

Eighteen candidates competed last year./PN