Mikey Gatal at 50: Untouched by Science

Mikey Gatal hasn’t changed at all and not a part of his was altered by science (he's a Beauche user for years).

Look, Ma, no wrinkles! 

At 50 (last Nov. 1) , it seems that nothing about US-based socialite Mikey Gatal has changed at all through the years.

In a Zoom chat, he runs his fingers across his flawless face and says with singular pride, “Untouched by Science.”

Not even the rigorous and stressful stories (and work!) can seem to ruffle him.

Has he perhaps uncovered the fountain of youth? 

"Only Beauche touches my skin," says Mikey.

At whatever age, he will always be Mikey Gatal. 

But due to the pandemic that has kept him at home, Mikey is celebrating his 50th with special friends to thank the Lord for all the blessings.

"My wish is to have a good health, finding one true love...and I wish the pandemic will end so that I can go home and spread world peace," says Mikey, who owns the famous www.mikeygatal.com. 

Before we intrude deeper into Mikey’s private life, let’s find out Mikey’s 50 (actually, more!!!) memorable events and good reasons to celebrate life.

1. I miss my Lolo Intong and Lola Inday because they raised me until l was 6 years old. 

2. I knew it, when I became an expert of chinese garter at the age of seven! LOL! 

3. I became a prince charming in 2nd Grade. 

4.I can't forget someone planted a kiss on my cheek during graduation practice in 6th grade.

5. Then I saw Jorge Besa the moment I reached high school. Ha! Ha! Ha! 

6. When I competed with my sister in getting some papaya leaves to scrub and whiten our legs in high school. 

Whether US-based socialite Mikey Gatal was seven (when starting to perfect the Chinese garter) or fifty (as he turned last Sunday, Nov. 1), he will always be Mikey to all his family and friends.

7. I became a dancer when Ma'am Nila Itac saw my potential. 

8. I was wearing shorts when someone kissed me while walking near Bohol Quality. 

9. I really enjoyed high school life. 

10. My first ever beer after high school graduation. 

11. I flew to Manila to study. 

12. I went back to Bohol for one semester. 

13. I left Bohol because I felt left out of my batchmates.

14. I went to Davao to study.

15. That's My Boy 1992 winner in our campus.

16. A crew at Jollibee Davao was my first ever job.

17. I went to Cebu after college graduation then worked at Jollibee.

18. I met a friend who became a flight attendant.

19. I was interviewed for another job.

20. I was employed at House of Representatives.

21. I became obsessed with tennis.

22. I left Congress and worked at the Meridian Hotel in Bohol for a year.

23. A heart to heart with dad that I have to go back to Manila because he believed in me.

24. Back in Congress for two years.

25. I arrived in America in 2000.

26. My first ever relationship lasted for 10 years.

27. I became an American.

28. I traveled to Thailand.

29. Vacationing in Hongkong with my two sisters and Mom.

30. Mom's trip to the US.

31. I met someone who became my inspiration again.

32. I miss my sister who died of breast cancer.

33. I traveled to Niagara Falls in Canada.

34. I went to New York, New Jersey visiting my friends and relatives.

35. Wine tasting in Napa Valley.

36. Health scare.

37. I appeared and interviewed on TV and newspapers at Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas.

38. My red carpet experience during the Oscars in Hollywood.

39. I helped someone became a beauty queen.

40. I witnessed and had a picture with Pia Wurtzbach before she became a Miss Universe winner.

41. My 40th birthday spent in Bohol wearing Halloween Costumes with family and friends. 

42. We call each other BFF until now, 8 years of friendship.

43. I love Switzerland.  It never ceases to amaze me!

44. I love Italy and Spain.  I love to visit again!

45. I became skinny! Hehehe

46.  H Club got me inspired again!

48. I worked at Kaiser.

49. This pandemic I have learned to value and cherish life more.

50. My dream house is almost complete.

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Will Pauline win the Miss Universe PH?

Miss Bohol 2017 Pauline Amelinckx will represent the province at this year’s Miss Universe Philippines pageant. Photo courtesy of Mikee Andrei

Since the Bohol bet, Pauline Cucharo Amelinckx, has been consistently topping online beauty pageant surveys, Boholanos are pinning their hopes on her to bring home the country’s Miss Universe Philippines crown.

"Her personality makes her win the crown! She is obviously brought up well. Everyone she works with would love to work with her again. She is open to criticism but she knows how to filter. Even she is smart, she isn't complacent and very diligent during trainings," according to Manila-based Boholano designer Mikee Andrei.

"Pauline is an epitome of authenticity, beauty and genuinity talaga, " Mikee added. 

During the preliminaries held Friday night, October 23 in Baguio City, Pauline won the heart of the judges and the Miss Universe PH followers with her amazing smile and how she effortlessly connected with the camera. 

Pauline grabbed four awards - - Miss Creamsilk, Miss Downy Sweetheart, Miss Cetaphil Sun and Miss Beautiful Face. 

“She has a good fighting chance,” according to Khim Roger Ryan Magtagad of The Art Nouveau (Tan) Models.

“The smile never left her face,” observed Helen Castano who covered the Miss U 2017 in Manila. 

Will Pauline win the Miss Universe Philippines? Will, rather can Pauline (who is up against other gorgeous girls) take the crown from reigning fellow Boholana beauty queen Gazini Ganados?

Puhon!!! 

Manila-based designer Mikee Andrei on Pauline Amelinckx: 'She is an epitome of authenticity, beauty and genuinity.' 

Speaking of "puhon," during the preliminary interview, Pauline and Caroline Veronilla of Misamis Oriental described the word "puhon"  as a beautiful word from their local language. 

Pauline defined "puhon" as “hopefully” and Caroline said "puhon" means “soon or someday”. 

"I would like to choose the word "puhon." It means hopefully. It's the word that we use whenever we talk something that gonna will happen in the future. Like I gonna join the Miss Universe Philippines "puhon", hopefully with God's blessings," said Pauline. 

Caroline said,  "I have always love the word "puhon."  "Puhon" is translated into "someday", "soon". And it is something that inspires me, it gives me hope, it makes me to look to the future. Puhon. Sometimes we use it, 'Kita ra ta puhon.' 'Sabay rata puhon.' So, someday. And that is something I look forward to. "

Their definitions sparked a debate online  on which candidate defined it properly. 

Well,  in Engr. Jes Berlamino Tirol's  Kapulungan (Binisaya-Iningles), "puhon" is an expression that signifies, "God willing; May it be in the future." 

It is synonymous with the word "haraw" and "hinaot" which means "May it happen." 

"Haraw" can be used for bad or good wish but "hinaot" is used only for a good wish. 

The five semi-finalists were chosen last Friday night but they won’t be known until the precious envelope is opened on coronation today, Oct. 25.

(Watch the GMA-7 telecast LIVE from Baguio Country Club on Sunday, October 25, at 9 a. m., with replay at 10 p. m.) 

Let us pray that Pauline will be the next Miss Universe, puhon!!! 

Hinaot unta! Puhon!!! 

Stand by.

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No formula to win the Miss Universe crown

PASAY,Philippines-   Miss Universe 1973 Margie Moran said that there is no magic formula in winning the Miss Universe crown.

Photo: Leo Udtohan

 

“I believe winning the pageant is for me a destiny,” said Moran during the Miss Universe red carpet event on Sunday afternoon (Jan. 29, 2017).

 

“There is no formula to winning..it is being right time and the right place and the right judges,” she added.

 

For TV star and former model Cynthia Bailey who is one of the judges, she is looking for a Miss Universe who can make an impact in the society.

 

Photo: Leo Udtohan

“I am looking for the whole package,” she said. “Someone who is confident, someone who is beautiful inside and out, someone who got class, grace and style. Someone who can make an impact.”

 

“Miss Universe is a woman who is capable of inspiring other women and young girls,” said Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopez.

 

Photo: Leo Udtohan

Miss Universe 1994 Sushmita Sen said she is hoping the best girl would win. 

 

“Honestly I rather be a contestant than a judge especially if you have been a contestant,” said Sen.

 

Miss Universe 1969 Gloria Diaz said all the candidates have an equal chance in winning the Miss Universe crown.

Miss Colombia wins Miss Universe 2014

Miss Colombia Paulina Vega, 22, was named 2014’s Miss Universe! After a rigorous competition starting with 88 girls from around the world showing off their stunning beauty and talent at the FIU Arena in Miami, Florida, the stunner went home the ultimate winner over Miss USA Nia Sanchez!

Photo by Alexander Tamargo
 / Getty Images North America / AFP

Miss Jamaica was the top trend on Twitter towards the end of the competition, so viewers were really loving her.

Miss Spain was the top trend earlier in the night, but didn’t make it into the top 5.

Miss Philippines MJ Lastimosa was on top 10 but failed to make it to the final 5.

Miss Congeniality Universe was Miss Nigeria, Miss Photogenic Universe was Miss Puerto Rico, and Best National Costume was Miss Indonesia.

This is the full list of winners.

Miss Universe: Colombia

1st runner-up: USA Nia Sanchez

2nd runner-up: Ukraine Ukraine Diana Harkusha

3rd runner-up: Netherlands Yasmin Verheijin

4th runner-up: Jamaica Kaci Fennel

National Costume: Indonesia

Miss Congeniality: Nigeria

Miss Photogenic: Puerto Rico

Miss Bohol Sandugo: Idy Cagas of Jagna wins 2012 crown

Wake-uppers:

Mortreux Credit: Tracy Torres

Scene: Blessed with silky fine white complexion and a face that could launch a thousand ships, Karen Mortreux won the title Miss Silka Bohol 2012 last July 19. Mortreux is the reigning ICM Miss Teen Earth. Other finalists were: Marie Gigi Galacio (ICM Calendar Girl 2011 first runner up), first runner-up; Irish May Clenuar (ICM Ms Teen Earth 1^st runner-up), second runner-up; and Candy Cumayas, third runner-up. Mortreux will represent Bohol to the Miss Silka 2012. The annual search is presented by Cosmetique Asia makers of Silka beauty products and Juicy Cologne.

 

Scene: Bohol third district Rep. Arthur Yap has made to good use his diplomatic experience in seeking donations from abroad in his effort to continuously provide assistance for the needs and development of the towns in his district.

 

Recently, Rep. Yap has secured five firetrucks and three ambulances from Japan, which will be donated to some towns in the third district to enhance the capability of the towns in responding to emergencies by utilizing these vehicles. 

 

Last Monday, Rep. Yap turned-over one fire truck he secured from Ibaraki Prefectural Assembly of Shimotsuma City to LGU Loay attended by the officials of Shimotsuma City.

 

“We are very thankful to Rep. Arthur Yap and our Japanese friends for donating the fire truck. This will be a big help to our firemen,” said Mayor Rosemarie Imboy.

 

Rep. Arthur Yap (first row, 3^rd from left) with provincial board member Brigido Imboy, Loay Mayor Rosemarie Imboy and Japanese donors during the turn-over ceremony. -LPU

Rep. Yap in his speech said that “with this firetruck, I believe that the local authorities will be able to attend to emergencies more effectively, save more lives and better prevent the destruction of properties and livelihoods, and thus enhance the human security of the local people.”

 

Said Masuda Seigo, chairman of Shimotsuma City Council: “The city of Shimotsuma has been active in keeping the population safe from fire and this truck has been used in doing so... we would like the Loay municipality to receive the truck because this truck has been of service to Shimotsuma." 

 

Scene: Thousands of job seekers have been provided job referrals and employment placement assistance to different job sites locally and overseas, thanks to the Bohol Employment and Placement Office (BEPO).

 

Tagaan

Last week, BEPO had facilitated the mobile services of national agencies as part of their regular programs.  National agencies which do not have full service offices in Bohol like PRC, NSO, LTFRB and DFA are invited to conduct mobile services in the province on a regular basis.  Over the years, thousands of clients mostly job seekers, public school teachers and other professionals have benefited the Mobile Services with the convenience of transacting with those agencies right here in the province. 

 

“It’s bringing government services closer to the people," says  Romy Tagaan, head of BEPO. He is also supported by Ma. Vilma Yorong, PESO manager,  Erlie Heramis, mobile services coordinator, Gay Manolong and Villa Lopena, admin officers, Reinerio Augusto Real, consultant on OFW matters, Robert Cister, STARS project coordinator and a team of job order workers. 

 

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The Miss Bohol Sandugo beauty pageant crowned a new titleholder on Friday, July 20: Idy Caseñas Cagas of Pundok Jagnaanon.

The 22-year-old beat out Mariecris Evardo of Tubigon to win the title and will take over from reigning Miss Bohol Sandugo Farrah Faye Mian of Tubigon.  The other finalist was Grace Sansen Mae Abong (Miss Biasong Loon, second runner-up).

 

Cagas also won best in production number, while Evardo was declared Best in Talent. 

 

 

Jagnaanon beauty Idy Cagas wins the title of 2012 Miss Bohol Sandugo on Friday. -LPU

 

The pageant was divided into three categories - swimsuit, evening gown and interview - and Cagas wowed the judges.

 

Miss Bohol Sandugo 2008 first-runner-up Chandrina Elluiska Schreurs and Miss Bohol Sandugo 2008 2nd runner-up Joana Pilayre, served as co-hosts for the pageant, while Glenn Manigque emceed this year's pageant.

Cagas, who said that men and women are created equal during the final interview, shared that winning the crown is her dream. “Yes, I have always dreamed to be a beauty queen, a dream I share with my grandmother,” Cagas told Bared after the pageant.

 

From left: Mariecris Evardo of Tubigon (first runner-up), Idy Cagas (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2012), and Grace Sansen Mae Abong of Biasong, Loon (second runner-up). -LPU

 

 

 

It was her grandma, the late Petra Caseñas, who told her to join Miss Bohol Sandugo.

 

“My secret in sustaining my poise and grace under pressure especially during Q and A is never failing to ask God’s enlightenment and guidance,” said Cagas.

 

Cagas is the fifth Jagnaanon to win the Miss Bohol Sandugo title. The town's entries successively triumphed from 1990 to 1992: Tiffany Yap (1990), Ma. Recelle Adlaon (1991) and Celevel Ranoco (1992). Also in 2003, Fatima Liora Lloren Rana was crowned Miss Bohol Sandugo.

 

Jagna is the only town in Bohol that has the most number of Miss Bohol Sandugo winners.

 

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MISS BOHOL SANDUGO 2012 MISS SILKA BOHOL 2012

Ebone Cimafranca wins Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012

Anyag 2012 candidates

FLASH REPORT: The Anyag sa Tubigon 2012 committee announced that Star Magic’s Matteo Guidicelli will grace the affair to serenade the lovely candidates on May 13. The event will be hosted by Mr. Cebu 2009 Kris Nimrod Cabigas and Bb. Pilipinas- World 2006 Anna Maris Igpit.

 

“Don't miss this opportunity to witness ABS-CBN's hottest talent in celebrating TANDA Festival with us,” says Raymond Delgado, erstwhile Tubigon’s Queen of All Media.

 

The Anyag crown is designed by a famous Cebuano jeweler Alpio Saban and it was donated by Manila Vice-Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso.

 

“May is not just a fiesta season; it's also a pageant season. Anyag still maintains its show mantra, quality, quality , quality...it's all about quality of showmanship and our theme is ‘contemporary beauty",” adds Raymond.

Tickets are Php 200.00 (ring side) and Php 100.00 (general admission).

For reservations, you may come and visit the Tubigon Tourism Culture Arts and Heritage Office or contact us at (038) 508-8496.

 

Anyag sa Tubigon 2011 Lori Geisha Cabrera will relinquish her crown to the new winner (12 candidates are vying for the crown) on May 13. Credit: Ryan Macalandag

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That Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca is more than just a pretty face is amply proven by the Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 crown and Miss Photogenic, Best in Casual Wear, Best in Swimsuit and Best in Gown awards during the Miss Teen Tagbilaran just held recently in the City of Friendship.

 

Ebone Cimafranca

That Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca gives a straight answer that her mother is her role model.

 

“For me, the greatest woman would be my mother. Not only because she has supported me all throughout my life, but since before school she has taught me moral values which I can apply at home and in school,” says Ebone during the pageant’s Q and A portion.

 

“And I know that without my mother, I wouldn't be the strong and confident woman that I am today,” adds the 16-year-old lass from Poblacion 1 whom Bared has interviewed after winning the crown facilitated by Bohol’s fashion icon EJ Relampagos ( EJ’s boutique is located at 51 Pamaong Ext., Cogon District, Tagbilaran City, Cell No:  09498383173, Tel. No: 416-1184), Ebone’s stylist and manager.  

 

Her parents, Engr. Cresente and Maria Eva Cimafranca (nee Calimbayan), are very proud of their daughter’s achievement.

 

An Aries (March 31), Ebone stands 5’6”, weighs 113 lbs., measures 36-25-36, and wears small-size shirt and size-8.5 shoes. She finished high school last March at Holy Spirit School-Tagbilaran and she’s planning to take up broadcast journalism in Miriam College.

 

She has more to say.

 

How would you convince people here and abroad that it’s more fun in Bohol?
“I would use the medium of information that is prominent to us teenagers of today which is social media. I would showcase the true beauty of Bohol to everyone and I'll see to it that tourism can be promoted here in God's little paradise.”

 

Should transgender be allowed to compete in beauty contests for women?
“I don't have any problems with transgender people, because I consider them very loving, fun, and sensible. In my own opinion, if the person has passed the requirements to be a woman or to be a candidate, why not?”

 

If that’s the case, how would you prove that you are more female than transgender?
“I am more female than transgender since I possess true womanhood and femininity in myself. And I have this certain edge over men which is my wonderful capability to bear a life in my own body.”

 

What do you think does the world needs most right now?
“I think the world needs love and prayers. With all the wars and calamities happening right now, I believe there is still hope. And if there is love in the community and sincere prayers from our hearts, the world would be a more colorful one.”

 

What is your favorite quote?
"Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." By Dr. Seuss

Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca with her manager and stylist EJ Relampagos and supporters. Contributed Photo

 

How's your love life?
“I am not into any intimate relationship as of now since I think it’s a distraction for me towards my studies. And I think it’s still inappropriate for me to engage in such, since I'm still a minor.”

 

What do you find sexy in a man?
“Confidence. If a man has confidence in himself, his other aspects don't matter as long as he is proud of the man that he is. That, I find very sexy.”

 

And what turns you off?
“A man who has low self esteem in himself, a man who cannot even be proud of what and who he is.”

 

As Miss Teen Tagbilaran, what qualities of the Tagbilaranon youth would you highlight?
“The oneness of our Tagbilaranon youth and their love for our city.”

 

Young people today are liberated and adventurous, willing to try everything. What's your stand on pre-marital sex?
“I strongly believe that it is against our moral values as teenagers to engage in such intimate activity. Sex is a sacred union only for a certain married couple. However, as I have observed, teenagers of today have been lured by lust and such act has become very prominent.”

 

If you were somebody else, who would you like to be and why?
“I think it would be fun to be Kate Middleton... being young, educated and carefree. I want to know the feeling of how is it to be a princess. I'd love to relive that moment when I first watched a Cinderella movie.”

 

Describe yourself in three words.
“Sensible, God-fearing, and Loving.”

 

What is your greatest inspiration?
“The love and support that my family has given to me ever since. They have always been there for me and they have been the driving force of my life.”

 

What is the essence of being Miss Teen Tagbilaran?
“The essence of being Miss Teen Tagbilaran is not only about beauty, talent and personality, it is the responsibility bestowed on me to give hope and inspire my fellow teenagers that this is a wonderful world for us to nurture and love not hate and destroy.”

 

 

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A misty-eyed look at Ubi Fest

Wake-uppers:

Scene: There were only 8 candidates for Miss Ubi Festival Queen 2012. At least 18 towns in Bohol are known as ubi country.

Seen: Kinampay was the best seller during the 12^th Ubi fest. Ubi kinampay is still the queen of all varieties because it can fetch the high price in the market. It has purple flesh color and aroma.

Seen: There were no balitaw and ubi cuisine contests during the Ubi fest.

Seen:  Alburquerque Central Elementary School is one of the twelve (12) finalists nationwide in the P&G e.Studyante program. It is one of the four schools in the Visayas and the only one Bohol. To vote: Log onto Facebook and search for e.Studyante.

Seen: A Boholana was featured on Yahoo Philippines homepage last week. Ma. Laurice “Darling” Jamero was rated top pick to click among the 12 Y! Rocks breakthrough acts for 2011.

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With the 12^th Ubi Festival over and done with, let’s loosen up a bit and play a fun game which I’m calling “How well do you know the ubi?” Ready?

1. What is the scientific name of ubi or purple yam?

Answer: Dioscorea alata

2. What are the other names of ubi?

Answer: Ubi is also known as ubi jam, food for the gods, purple yam and sweet lavender.

3. True or false: Ubi is sacred in Bohol.

Answer: We venerate it! We kiss it whenever it accidentally falls on the ground.

4. True or false. Bohol is the largest ubi producer in the country.

Answer: True. 66 percent of the total ubi production in the country comes from Central Visayas, and over half of that comes from Bohol making it the leader of ubi production in the Philippines.

5. Who is the Miss Ubi Queen Festival 2012?

Answer: Jade Nica Obedencio

If you’re able to answer all the questions, you were there at the Ubi fest!

And it seems like it was yesterday when I saw balitaw (a traditional song and dance courtship strategy in the olden times), kuradang, balak and all ubi varieties (kinampay, kabus-ok, iniling, tam-isan, baligonhon, binanag, binugas/gimna, binato, apale, cagay-anon, bot, kot and lema,); heard Onie Oclarit’s Ubi Festival jingle; and listened to ubi folklore and cultural traditions in Bohol. How time flies noh?  

.

As the country’s ubi capital, the Ubi festival was patterned as an eco-tourism event that showcases ubi products, contests and cultural shows featuring ubi. It doesn't showcase street dancing (but organizers can consider it in the near future), but zooms in on the development of ubi products or the entrepreneurial aspect of ubi's existence.

We consider ubi a “sacred” crop. In fact, when I accidentally lose the ubi I bought from Plaza Rizal, our neighbor Moning Aquino shouted, “Ginoo! Hagki jud nang ubi para dili ta gabaan sa Ginoo!” And Manang Tasing had to put an ubi on the altar. According to our elders, when anyone accidentally drops an ubi to the ground or table, they would utter an apology and kiss it as a sign of reverence and respect, so you will not be inflicted with 'gaba' (wrath or misfortune).

Why we kiss the ubi? Historian and cultural icon Jose Marianito Luspo has an explanation. “I think the practicing of kissing the ubi originated as a form of psychological way to make people respect a very important root crop for us. It is interesting to know that among the people of the Philippines, it is the Boholanos who had the long and intimate relationship with the crop. Boholanos learned to revere it… in a very special way, ubi is considered more useful than rice…”

Sir Luspo added that during the World War II and several famines, it is said that ubi was the only crop that grew in Bohol soil that saved the Boholanos from death, thus their great respect for it, so much so that it's the only staple food included in their Bohol hymn.

The Ubi festival gives an opportunity to the young generation to grasp of the traditions involving ubi culture like one would have to do chanting or incantations before he or she plants the tuber. Call it palihi, our elders said it’s effective.

The historical significance of the ubi crop to the Boholano is described by a Jesuit missionary Fr. Ignacio Alcina, S.J. In his Historia de las islas e.indios de Bisayas”: The so-called Ubi, which are numerous in kind, color and shape. The larger ones are called kinampay and are mulberry in color. The Ubi are the chief staple of the island of Bohol and other islands (Dauis / Panglao Island) where they yield abundantly and very well.” In addition, Fr. Blancos Flora de Pilipinas mentioned the best variety of ubi, is Cebu Ubi which comes from Bohol.

 

On the beauty aspect, the Ubi Festival has the search for Miss Ubi Festival Queen. The Miss Ubi Queen Festival is supposed to act as ambassador of goodwill and must be well-versed on information about the ubi so she can help in its promotion.

One beauty (and brains) contest sorely missed by beauty-watchers is the Miss Ubi Festival Queen launched in 2000 and “scrapped” in 2006 much to the sadness of its followers. Miss Ubi usually picked candidates from the towns which are “ubi” country (Alburquerque, Antequera, Baclayon,  Corella, Dagohoy,  Dauis, Dimiao , Garcia-Hernandez, Jagna,  Loay, Loboc, Mabini, Maribojoc, Panglao, Sikatuna, Tagbilaran, Ubay and Valencia) from whom the winner is chosen in a pageant, promoting, yes of course, ubi. The winners, as Bared’s beauty watcher Bohol’s seasoned host and personality guru Raul Gatal puts it, “the beauty of the Boholana can be likened to that of our very own ubi. Seemingly in the outside is just like any other but in the inside is sensitive, sweet, steadfast because of life’s adversities have given her that distinct uniqueness. Just like the ubi which thrives best under the most harsh environment which results in its texture and delicate flavor that have been tempered by the most unforgiving terrain.” And, if I may add, they combined the modesty, femininity and sophistication of a modern Boholana.

Pinky Gica Beldia–Socias was the first Miss Ubi Festival Queen in 2000 which was held in Dauis town.

The very eloquent Rhiz Nova Tagsip Arenas of Inabanga (who became Miss Bohol Sandugo 2004) was declared Miss Ubi Festival Queen 2004. She was famous for her line, “Basta ubi Bohol, basta Bohol ubi."

1999 Miss Universe 1st runner-Up Miriam Quiambao was amazed of the sweet and purple-colored ubi kinampay when she visited Dauis in 2008. LPU

Unfortunately, after January 2004, there has been no search because of lack of funds. Interest in the Miss Ubi Festival Queen waned once more in the succeeding years even in this supposed beauty contest-crazy province.

Last week, Jade Nica Obedencio of Balilihan got everyone excited again when she was declared Miss Ubi Festival Queen 2012 in a low-budgeted and less fanfare search. However, it was such a happy event for Boholano beauty watchers who were watching the 8 candidates with their winning smiles. There was a collective heave of a call for a yearly Miss Ubi Festival Queen with a topnotch production. But how?

“Miss Ubi contestants should have talents focused on ubi…culinary, visual and performing arts. Schools should be required to attend, too. Script and concept for each segment should incorporate the ubi element to set it apart from other pageants. Trivia questions can be included too to heighten and arouse interest in respect for the ubi,” said Raul.

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Farrah Faye Mian: Smart and beautiful

Farrah Faye Mian: Smart and beautiful

Tubigon wins Miss Bohol Sandugo crown again

It was one of the best batches ever, with the 19 girls giving the judges a hard time picking the winners. Fresh, young and talented, there were seven candidates who finished salutatorians, two high school valedictorians and three with honors. There were registered nurses and a licensed teacher who graduated magna cum laude.

And the winner is….

Miss Tubigon Farrah Faye Abarquez Mian, 17 (5’6, 114 lbs., 32-24-35), was crowned Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011.

At 15, she won the title as Miss Bohol Association of Catholic Schools (BACS) Personality 2009 representing Holy Family of Nazareth School- Tubigon, Bohol.

At 16, she gained the title of Miss Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) Meet in 2010 and Anyag sa Tubigon 2010.

A part time model in Cebu and a medical technology student, she brought her hometown the Miss Bohol Sandugo crown for the second-time. It was Amir Sol who got the crown for Tubigon for the first time in 2010.

"Thank you Bohol, this is the most wonderful moment of my life," said Farrah with tears in her eyes now that she is proclaimed Bohol’s Finest Daughter and included in the Miss Bohol Sandugo Honor Roll.

Farrah was also declared Miss Talent. Other winners were Miss Loon Ely Rose Apple Angcon who finished first runner-up, while Catigbian’s Aimee Ann Anunciado was second runner-up.

The Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011 beauties: (left to right) Ely Rose Apple Angcon (first runner-up), Farrah Maye Mian (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011), Aimee Ann Anunciado (second runner-up)

A few days after she was crowned at glittering ceremonies at the Bohol Cultural Center last July 16, Farrah is available for another round of grueling Q&A. This time with Bared.

Would you rather be smart but not too beautiful, or beautiful but not too smart?

I'd rather be smart but not too beautiful. For me, beauty is nothing without brains; wit and character has always been something that I have always wanted, even until now. A person's physical appearance is all too temporary but when you have the brains, there are no limitations as to the things that you can accomplish.

Why are you taking up medical technology?

“I'm taking up medical technology as a springboard for medicine. I've always wanted to be a doctor and I believe that medical technology offers not only the adequate amount of training but it also gives me the best medical experience which, if I am to survive med school and truly be a doctor someday, I have to undergo and overcome. I chose to study in Cebu mainly because there were no schools offering medical technology in Bohol and partly because Velez College is one of the top performing schools in terms of medical education.”

So, you have to read a lot of medical books.

“I do, more than I thought I ever would in this life! Right now, I have three purely medical books used by doctors and pre-med students alike and it's so thick! That doesn't even include the other compiled notes given by our teachers but still, the dream lives on.”

Farrah Faye Abarquez Mian, the 30^th Miss Bohol Sandugo, is now included in the Miss Bohol Sandugo Honor Roll. Foto by:Glenn Tumanda Gamayot

What do you think is the smartest thing that you’ve done so far?

“I think the smartest thing I've done so far was choosing the Holy Family of Nazareth School as my institution. Without it, I wouldn't be standing on this pedestal. they have not only trained me well academically but they also molded me as a person with Christian values.”

What do you think is the biggest decision that you’ve made in your life?

“The biggest decision I've ever made in my life, I think, was taking up medical technology in Velez. It's 10 times harder than I thought it would be but I'm still here, and I’m starting to think that this is where I truly belong.”

Have you always wanted to be a beauty queen since you were small?

(Smiles) “When I was small, I didn’t actually think nor imagine that I would ever be a beauty queen. I watched Miss Tubigon once and only once when I was about 5-7 years old. I was blinded by the glittering lights and the pretty ladies on stage and in a way I guess I thought that those things would never happen to me. I'm starting to actually believe in the saying ‘be careful what you wish for cause you just might get it’!”

Aside from winning the Miss Bohol Sandugo title, what do you think have you achieved so far?

“I think more than this title, my greatest achievement lies in being a 10% beauty queen and a 90% something else entirely. I'm a simple person and yet I have huge dreams that I think every person should have because why should we aim for the moon and land on the stars when we can always aim on the moon and still land on the moon? One’s perception is the only thing that is stopping him/her from achieving his/her greatest fantasies.”

What advocacy experience do you have? Maybe you have an important message to share ... and Miss Bohol Sandugo would be the venue or forum to start your advocacies.

(Smiles again) “I do. I've always been an environmental advocate and I believe in animal rights as well and that was the main reason why I became a vegetarian in the past year. I think animals should be treated well and should be given equal rights because they too have a life. It is unjust that we disregard them and treat them as beings lower than they deserve. I also think that in this extremely technological age, preserving the gifts that Mother Nature has given to us is the only answer to all our environmental problems. Starting in simple but potent ways, like planting trees, throwing one's garbage in the right place, cleaning our surroundings will actually help determine not only our future but also the future of our children and grandchildren, and I sure still want them to see the world as I see it now.”

When did you realize that you are a Miss Bohol Sandugo? During the coronation night? Or the morning after?

(Smiling even widely) “It was after a few days, when my classmates and even my teachers here in Cebu actually started talking about it and kept mentioning that astonishing fact. Until now I think I still haven’t fully grasped the fact that I am the Miss Bohol Sandugo, it’s a huge responsibility and I think I still don’t understand the implications of carrying such a great title.”

Do you have secrets sustaining your poise, your grace under pressure, especially during the crucial points in any contest?

“Prayer. That's my only secret. We are the captain of our own ship but in the end, it is always the Lord who decides what will become of us in the future.”

Do you have a plan to join higher beauty pageants like Bb. Pilipinas and Miss World-Philippines?

(Thinks)“Maybe after med school. I'm an academician now and I have to finish what I've started before I start another journey.”

What is your best asset and why?

“I don’t actually have a greatest asset.” (Laughs)

Who’s your beauty queen role model?
“My beauty queen role model is Anna Theresa Licaros who was a magna cum laude in the university of the Philippines in mass communications and who, shortly after she arrived here in the Philippines after joining the Miss Universe Pageant, chose to enroll for law rather than to have a press conference. like her, I actually believe that education comes first for it is the only thing that even your greatest fiend cannot take away from you.”

Any other woman whom you admire?

“That would be my aunt. She was the one who was always there for me and I pretty much grew up under her supervision. I love the way she handles stress and how she's so strong despite the challenges that she has to face every single day of her life.”

How’s your boyfriend now that you are Miss Bohol Sandugo?

(Laughs) “Oh, he's stressed alright. We’re in a long distance relationship but I think that winning this pageant won’t actually affect the way I feel about him.”

As Miss Bohol Sandugo, what qualities of the Boholano youth would you highlight?

“His/her open-mindedness. The Boholano youth adapts to changes faster than a neuron sensing a stimulus in the receptors of the body but even so, they still honor their past and continue to practice their traditions, one I myself would always do and in the future, something I will teach my children as well.”

Young people today are liberated and adventurous, willing to try everything. What's your stand on pre-marital sex?

“I think sex is a sacred gift given only to married people. It’s okay to be adventurous but we must know our limitations.”

How about RH Bill?

“But in terms of the RH Bill, I can’t really decide because as a Christian, I must honor the Lord's commandments but as a person living in a third world country, I also think that is practical and that it would greatly affect the future of this country.”

What is your stand on divorce in the Philippines?

“I do not believe in nor agree with divorce. I believe that what God has joined, only God can separate and that rings true as the groom and the bride profess their vows when they say "till death do us part." Marriage is the largest step in any relationship and I think before making that decision, you must know in yourself if you are ready and if you really love the person you're marrying.”

If you were to change something in yourself, what would it be?

“If I had the chance to change something, I would change the way I had spent my free time. I would have had the chance to learn how to play the piano and the violin, but I guess with school going on now I would never have the time.”

What’s your type of a man?

“I’m not really very specific but I'd like him to be tall and smart. I think a guy who is actually good with words is very hard to find nowadays and there is nothing more boring than a guy who barely talks. I'd also like him to be a doctor (fingers crossed till then!) since it would be easier for me if my boyfriend would have the same job as I did since we would already have an understanding when it comes to medicine and our passion for it.”

What is the essence of Miss Bohol Sandugo?

“The essence of the Miss Bohol Sandugo is being a great, if not legendary example of and to the women of Bohol. I say this generally and without bias as I think that it is one of the greatest achievements a woman can have in her lifetime for winning this title means that she is not only a woman of beauty but also of wit and character who will be the ambassadress of goodwill not only to her fellow Boholanos but also to the diverse people of the Philippines. She will in herself carry the true grace and mystery that surrounds every Boholana and she will not only be an example, but also be a sign that the practice of Boholano cultures and traditions remain steadfast even in this new millennium of technological advancement.”

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