“Empowering the Future, 12 Powerful Voices: Leading the Way”

“Empowering the Future, 12 Powerful Voices: Leading the Way”

BAGUIO CITY – The Miss Baguio 2025 media launch was held at Venus Parkview Hotel on Sunday, August 10, 2025.

In a dazzling showcase of talent and purpose, twelve young candidates presented their visions for a better world, each bringing a unique blend of education, accomplishment, and passion to the stage. Their backgrounds are as diverse as their ambitions, united by a common thread of leadership and a desire to make a tangible difference.

From promoting leadership empowerment and sustainable tourism to championing environmental preservation and inclusivity for persons with disabilities, these young women are tackling critical issues head-on.

Several are focused on creating safer, more supportive environments for children and young people, advocating for anti-bullying initiatives in schools, health literacy among the younger generation, and ensuring every child has the opportunity for a beautiful, abuse-free childhood, safe from abuse and malnutrition.

Candidate Ms. Brynne Cesary Bayang of Middle Quezon Hill barangay passionately advocates for press freedom in our country. (Mario Oclaman) FNS

Recognizing the importance of cultural heritage, some individuals are dedicated to promoting cultural diversity, while others are creating safe spaces for women, emphasizing the importance of mental health support and healing.

Candidate Miss Janela Recio, one of the deepest personal reasons she chose, “Caring Hands for Aging Hearts,” as her advocacy, wants to focus more on caring for senior citizens. (Mario Oclaman /FNS)

Each young woman embodies a life motto that reflects her commitment to service and positive change.

Candidate Miss Mikaela Coloma Lazaro of Bakakeng SLU-SVP is an advocate for PWDs. (Mario Oclaman /FNS)

Together, these twelve are not just glamorous faces; they are powerful advocates, change-makers, and leaders who are actively shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable future for all. Their collective efforts highlight the potential of young people to drive meaningful progress and inspire others to join them in their respective causes.

City Tourism Officer Engr. Alec Mapalo also said in an interview, “We had two weekend screenings in July. We initially screened 22 candidates. All of them were very determined, but we still needed to assess their readiness because we only had a month for preparation.

We want to ensure they are ready and that we can train them well in this short period for the upcoming big event, the coronation.

City Tourism Officer Engr. Alec Mapalo. (Mario Oclaman/ FNS)

After the screening, we selected 16 final candidates. However, unexpectedly, the series of typhoons affected the candidates, and four of them backed out. Some had difficulties, and others needed to catch up with school. We allowed them to prioritize their commitments because, when they join the pageant, they will face a significant commitment. As a result, we were left with only 12 candidates. It would have been ideal if all 128 barangays were represented, but that would have been difficult to manage for the show.

Nevertheless, we still extended invitations to all 128 barangays. We didn’t require them to participate; we only encouraged them. That’s why not all barangays sent their participants.” Mapalo concluded. # Mario D. Oclaman // Filipino News Sentinel

Mario Oclaman