15 Ilonggas vie for Lin-ay Sang Iloilo crown

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

The 18th Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair officially opened on November 10 with a fashion show and sashing ceremony for the 15 Lin-ay Sang Iloilo 2025 candidates at SM City Iloilo North Point.

Implemented by the Provincial Culture, Arts, History, and Tourism Office (PCAHTO), the annual event aims to integrate Iloilo’s indigenous weaving traditions into the province’s tourism development strategy.

It enhances the visitor experience while ensuring the continuity and relevance of cultural heritage by celebrating the craftsmanship of artisans and women weavers from across the province.

The candidates, representing various towns and festivals, were officially sashed and introduced to the public, joined by their municipal tourism officers, Sangguniang Bayan members (Committee on Tourism), and other local officials.

The candidates are:

1. Shania P. Sermonia – Tawili Festival, San Rafael
2. Cathlyn Kae S. Rodrigo – Saad Festival, Leganes
3. Lira E. Gico – Bantayan Festival, Guimbal
4. Elissa Jayne F. Dely – Lechon Festival, Balasan
5. Dyjie Laurice B. Yucor – Kasag Festival, Banate
6. Lyra Angela T. Temperatura – Saludan Festival, Tigbauan
7. Allessandra Keysha Emonaga – Saug Festival, Lemery
8. Chrishia Khayrelle P. Tuvilla – Tambobo Festival, Ajuy
9. May Ann P. Panes – Pintados de Pasi Festival, City of Passi
10. Joveline Grace E. Elpos – Tangyan Festival, Igbaras
11. Jannine F. Vasquez – Pandayan Festival, Badiangan
12. Shiela C. Muya – Sulay Basya Festival, Sara
13. Ira Kharylle L. Baylon – Tampisaw Festival, Concepcion
14. Crystil Joy L. Sepaya – Katagman Festival, Oton
15. Monica Vienne G. Centena – Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival, Calinog

In his message, Association of Iloilo Tourism Officers (AITO) President Dr. Jose “JJ” Patubo described the event as “a celebration not only of beauty and brains, but also of character, culture, and Ilongga excellence.”

“This sash is more than just a piece of cloth—it is a symbol of pride, responsibility, and the values that each Lin-ay carries in her heart: humility, intelligence, compassion, and love for Iloilo,” Patubo said.

He emphasized that Lin-ay Sang Iloilo goes beyond physical beauty, serving as a platform that honors empowered Ilongga women who embody the province’s spirit—upholding tradition while embracing progress.

Also unveiled during the opening event was this year’s Lin-ay Sang Iloilo crown, handmade by Carlesanon crown maker Michael Angelo Bangalisan Betita, with assistance from Carles Mayor Arnold T. Betita II.

The fair runs until November 12, featuring the Accessory Fashion Show on November 11 and the Finale Runway with the Association of Iloilo Tourism Officers (AITO) on the final day.