MISS BACOLOD MASSKARA 2024: PWD advocate named Darling of the Press

BACOLOD CITY—Miss Bacolod MassKara 2024 kicked off with a dazzling display from 15 candidates during the Sashing Ceremony at SM City Mall on Sunday, September 29.

The candidates impressed the packed crowd, all wearing Limited Edition MassKCAREra Cynefin Collection shirts from Mangkas Apparel.

While all the candidates presented their advocacies admirably, it was Candidate No. 7, Cindy Valencia, who captured the media’s attention and was named Darling of the Press.

Valencia, a 20-year-old third-year Business Administration student at the University of St. La Salle, stood out with her advocacy to raise awareness and promote empowerment for Persons With Disabilities (PWD). She also shared plans to develop and expand a school-based program for PWDs, which she initiated at USLS.

“With this project, I aim to unlock the potential of a leading, developing Bacolod City where no one is left behind,” Valencia said.

The 14 other candidates vying for the crown are:

1. Ella Gozon
2. Quennie Kuan
3. Sophia Kaye Zaragoza
4. Angelica Gwen Tenero
5. Princess Ella Olmilla
6. Jhudiel Micha Maris Lianda
7. Bea Tricia De La Peña
8. Mary Heloise Ginson
9. Gesille Mae Sullivan
10. Gwyn Maricon Lopez
11. Jasmine Mahilum
12. Ed Marie Aguilar
13. Cailah Jhane Delarma
14. Akeisha Nicole Nuarin

Kuster Cadagat, Secretary and Festival Director for Cultural and Accredited Events, expressed confidence in this year’s Miss Bacolod MassKara batch. He believes the candidates are well-equipped to compete in pageants outside of Bacolod.

“This year’s batch of Bacolodnon women is one of the strongest and most impressive in recent memory, strong enough to compete for and win national beauty pageant titles,” Cadagat stated.

The candidates were also featured in a video where they discussed their advocacies, aspirations, and personal interests.

Upcoming events for the candidates include the Talent Competition and Festival Costume Competition at Ayala Malls Capitol Central on October 5 and 12, followed by Corporate Day at SM City-Bacolod on October 13.