2017 Ms. Bicolandia pageant exudes the image of contemporary Bicolana

By Jason B. Neola NAGA CITY --- Donning this year’s theme of “contemporary Bicolana,” the 2017 Ms. Bicolandia Beauty Pageant will reel off “as a well-organized event that will add life and color to the month-long celebration of Peñafrancia fiesta in this Pilgrim City.” This was underscored by City Councilor Jose “Sonny” Rañola, chairman of Miss Bicolandia Executive Committee after the event’s production concept was presented to the nine-member committee last Tuesday. The concept gives prominence to the urbanization projects that the local government unit here have been pursuing. This year’s Miss Bicolandia Executive Committee is compossed of Dr. Rañola, chairman; Mrs. Farah Bongat, City Administrator Florencio Mongoso Jr., Ms. Jenny Harris, Atty. Racquel Vergara, Mr. Mike Pauig, Mr. Toti Rocha, Ms. Rye Rentoy as members and Mr. Gil dela Torre (Secretariat). Rañola explained that the annual event, which will be staged on September 6, this year, at the JMR Coliseum, will highlight the modern Bicolana who is empowering, encompassing, engaging, and emerging. Empowering in the sense that Bicolanas today are more than beauty and personality as they are also steadfast and compassionate bearing a strong moral compass, determined but flexible in their ways. A production staff explained that “Bicolanas are also encompassing in terms of physical, mental and emotional characteristics as they are unafraid of their sexuality but strive not to be solely defined by their ability to attract the interest of another person, a clear reflection of how well-rounded they are -- having the maturity to understand that being feminine is not just about physical endowments but a complete synchronicity of heart, mind and body.” He said a Bicolana is also engaging. She engages the community through culture, arts and festival, of which she is the symbol. Thus arts and culture is refined and dignified. She is also the festival queen that adds beauty and color to the celebration that is why she galvanizes them all to action. “Another distinguishing character today of a Bicolana is her capability to emerge continuously as contenders to national titles, bringing with her a community of people bound together by a distinct culture and her quest for the crown,” he said. Pre-screening of the candidates will be held from 8:00 o’clock in the morning to 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon at the Avenue Plaza Hotel on August 27, this year. It will be followed immediately by the announcement of 20 official candidates and public presentation at 3:00 p.m. on said date. On August 31, 2017, the candidates will appear in a welcome dinner and presentation at the Moraville Hotel and on September 2, 2017, the beauteous Bicolanas will be witnessed in a fashion show and swimsuit pre-judging competition at the Avenue Plaza Hotel. On September 4, their attendance is expected during the flag raising ceremony at the City Hall grounds where they will make a courtesy call with Mayor John Bongat afterwards.