Don Salvador Benedicto wins first Lin-ay sang Negros crown

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Don Salvador Benedicto achieved a historic milestone when 20-year-old psychology student Jamaicah Bantigue won its first-ever crown in the Lin-ay sang Negros pageant during the 30th Panaad sa Negros Festival.

Bantigue was crowned Pearl Queen during the pageant and coronation night held Friday at Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan here.

This year’s pageant featured all 32 local government units, including Bacolod City, making it the largest and most inclusive lineup in its history.

Lin-ay sang Negros has long been one of the festival’s signature events, with candidates representing their respective towns and cities during the provincewide celebration.

Bantigue stood out for her advocacy, “You Matter,” which emphasizes mental health awareness and the importance of timely, meaningful interventions for psychological concerns.

As a psychology student at the University of St. La Salle, she highlighted the need to pair awareness with compassion, understanding, and accessible support systems.

“You Matter is a reminder that no one should feel alone in their struggles,” Bantigue shared, underscoring how her academic journey and personal experiences shaped her platform.

As a working scholar, she demonstrated resilience and dedication throughout the competition while balancing her studies.

In addition to the crown, Bantigue also won Best in Talent and Muse of the Media in the municipality category.

She expressed pride in bringing home the title after three decades, calling it a long-awaited victory for her town.

“To my beloved Don Salvador Benedicto—this victory is ours. A historic first for our humble town, rooted in the mountains and carried by the strength of our people. May this moment ignite hope, especially among our youth, that no dream is too distant, no voice too small,” she shared.

Her journey, however, was not without sacrifice.

Bantigue became emotional as she recalled spending three months away from her family while preparing for the pageant.

Despite the challenges, she said she placed her trust in God and embraced the process.

She also encouraged young women to pursue their dreams despite obstacles and to believe in themselves.

“Being you is power,” she emphasized.

Bantigue is set to represent Negros Occidental on the national stage as its official delegate to Miss World Philippines next year.

Before her Lin-ay journey, Bantigue also won Miss Mansilingan 2024 and later Diwata sang Kali 2025.

Meanwhile, Johana Marie Oyog of Kabankalan City finished first runner-up.

Kimberly Kate Payumo of Talisay City was named second runner-up. Elisha Krizzle Escultura of Cauayan placed third runner-up. Glazel Bayona of Calatrava was fourth runner-up.

The event was further highlighted by a performance from actor Jericho Rosales.

Hosting duties were led by Robi Domingo and Dani Dingcong.

The pageant was one of the major highlights of the weeklong provincial celebration, showcasing not only beauty and talent but also advocacies that resonated with the community.