PUDTOL, Apayao – Reigning Dayag ti Apayao Jazreal Jamila Enciso was crowned Miss Cordillera Youth Ambassador for Autonomy during the coronation night held on July 14, 2023, at the EKB Multi-purpose Gymnasium in Pudtol.
As one of the main highlights of the 36th Cordillera Month Celebration, under the theme “Celebrating One, Resilient, Diverse and Inclusive (CORDI) Journey Toward Regional Autonomy,” the pageant served as a creative platform to engage the younger generations and work towards the ultimate goal of self-determination and governance in the region.
The Cordillera youth, representing a significant portion of the voting population, is seen as crucial in achieving autonomy when a plebiscite is eventually called.
During the coronation, Enciso’s answer to the question, “What are the challenges that the region is currently facing, and what would you say as a youth ambassador to help solve these problems?” impressed both the judges and the audience, ultimately leading to her victory.
With confidence, she emphasized that the lack of information dissemination is a major issue hindering the realization of regional autonomy. She proposed her program called ABEL, which stands for “Acquiring Benefits, Enhancing Lives of Cordillerans.” This comprehensive approach, she believed, would address the root problem and empower the three pillars of progress: People, Policy, and Progress.
To achieve these goals, she envisioned implementing comprehensive youth programs, fostering community-responsive education, supporting small-scale businesses, promoting sustainable development in agriculture, and preserving the region’s ecological heritage through eco-cultural tourism.
“By accomplishing all of these initiatives, we can undoubtedly create a prosperous, peaceful, and stable life for all Cordillerans,” she concluded.
Enciso is the second holder of the title after Miss Angela Mae Respico of Abra was crowned last year.
On the other hand, Arnel Labisa of Benguet was named Mr. Cordillera for this year’s celebration.
Additionally, Eddiemar Pacis of Apayao and Angelika Josiery Servinas of Baguio were honored as Mr. and Ms. Cordillera 2023 Youth Ambassadors for Capacity Building. Pacis received the Best Autonomy Pitch and Mr. Best Speaker awards, while Servinas was awarded Best in Talent and Best in Filipiniana.
Godwin Bumusao of Kalinga and Kristine Dilao of Benguet were named Mr. and Ms. Cordillera 2023 Youth Ambassadors for Education and Information Campaign. Bumusao also received the Best in Formal Attire award.
Rj Sean Maverick Caustro of Abra and Almie Jane Paned of Abra were recognized as Ambassadors for Alliance Building.
Other notable contenders included Maryjean Bugnosen of Mt. Province, who was named Queen of the Ramp, and received the Best Arrival Look and Best Speaker awards in the female category.
Ryan Jyle Dulay earned the title of King of the Ramp.
Ephryl Jan Tapyogan and Marvie Michelle Mitchell, candidates from Ifugao, were honored with the Mr. and Ms. Flawless awards. Jan Marveeno Palispis from Baguio City received the Best Arrival Look award in the male category. By Jomela Dela Torre
