Donning sharp, colorful corporate ‘girl boss’ outfits for their sashing ceremony, the 15 candidates of Mrs. Cebu-Philippines 2025 each have their reasons for joining the pageant for married women, single mothers, and older women.
Among them is Jesusa Lopez from Talisay City-South, the oldest contestant at 69, who was named Darling of the Press during the September 27 press conference at Teatro Casino, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. Joining the competition fulfills her long-held dream of joining a beauty tilt.
‘At my age, I want to enjoy myself,’ she said. ‘I want to encourage and inspire women that whether they are single or separated, we are strong even though we don’t have a husband.’
In contrast, Princess Devalgue of Cebu City-North is the youngest at 24 and a mother of two.
‘I was told that young mothers my age don’t usually have opportunities, and people think we are just wasted goods,’ she said. ‘That’s why I joined, because I want to empower young mothers and show that opportunities are waiting for us as long as we lift each other up.’
Raquel Britania, 40, from Talisay City-North, said she aims to help stay-at-home mothers find ways to earn an income.
‘I am for empowered women through livelihood, and I want to impart my knowledge on how they can earn even if they are just at home,’ she said.
For Mae Mancao Maranga of Cebu City-South, who was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism last year, joining Mrs. Cebu-Philippines is about showing strength despite hurdles.
‘I want to raise my platform and be fearless because I want to help other women understand their rights. We are women with limitless power,’ the 29-year-old candidate said.
This year’s Mrs. Cebu will crown winners in nine categories during its coronation on November 27 at Waterfront Lahug, including the titular crown currently held by Cherie Mae Ocampo of Talisay City.
Other titles include Elite Mrs. Cebu-Philippines, MS Cebu-Philippines, Mrs. Cebu-Philippines Tourism, Charity, Grand, Heritage, as well as two ‘special titles’: Mrs. Cebu Philippines Regional Queen, and Imperial Queen.
The rest of the candidates are Eunice Baguio (32, San Remigio), Marichu Alferez (45, Lapu-Lapu City-North), Raina Barrientos (27, Mandaue City), Shanine Rose Gealon (27, Argao), Alfanta Obispo (38, Mactan), Nika Linz Harris (31, Liloan), Ethel Joan Poley (48, Consolacion), Sweeney Capote (37, Toledo City), Emielou Sanchez (30, Borbon), Janeth Bardos (45, Lapu-Lapu City-South), and Myrla Navarra (43, Carcar City).
Resilience, role models
Asked what qualities a titleholder should possess to represent Cebu nationally and globally, Bardos, a mother of three, said resilience defines a true Filipina beauty queen.
‘We should be resilient in everything we do because there are so many challenges thrown at us,’ she said. ‘Being a mother is no joke, but I am lucky to be one because I wouldn’t be complete without my kids. I am resilient and have overcome challenges because of them. I actually have asthma, but look at me, presenting myself in this pageant. Obstacles are unexpected, and we should always be ready.’
Alferez believes empathy is the most essential trait. She said, ‘Being compassionate is so important. Most people these days are not anymore because they are busy with their cellphones.’
Sanchez highlighted bravery, explaining that ‘Women are capable of everything. That’s why I am here despite personal struggles.’
On how they would promote responsible tourism in Cebu as mothers, Poley emphasized the importance of environmental protection.
‘We have to take care of our waters. Coastal cleanups are helpful in our communities, especially since we had a big storm a few days ago,’ she said.
Capote stressed that local leaders must serve as role models who can help uplift Cebu’s image.
‘We have to be good examples so we can promote ourselves without hard selling,’ she said. ‘When we meet people internationally, they will see good things in us as Cebuanos who love what it’s like to be a Cebuano.’
Lopez agreed, adding, ‘Our leaders should join us so we can be united and become good examples not only within Cebu but also outside.’
Building a sisterhood
Obispo shared that she looks forward to the Q and A portion, viewing it as a platform for sharing stories. ‘It’s always the wonderful part of the pageant. We have different stories to tell, and I believe this sends a message that married, separated, and single mothers can still join these kinds of pageants,’ she explained.
Bardos expressed her excitement for the entire competition. ‘It won’t be a whole pageant if one part is missing. I love all parts of it because they help enhance our personalities, develop new skills, and sharpen our knowledge. All of them are enriching,’ she said.
Harris shared that she looks forward to fostering camaraderie among her co-candidates, as well as ‘having a sisterhood, growing together, and sharing our advocacies so we can support each other.’
Capote echoed the same sentiment, stating that, ‘This is not about competing against each other or stepping on others because we are friends. We should encourage one another and build a sisterhood. It’s inspiring for women to step out of their comfort zone and shine.’