By: Manuel Ferdinand Ramirez de Erio

The fairest of them all. Leaders Incorporated (LiNC) full fledged member Loida Tiza Lagonoy bested the fourteen lovely young Boholanas in the most prestigious pageant in Bohol , the Miss Bohol International Quest 2006 last Friday. LiNC is an organization of students and young professionals who shared common passion for volunteer works that started in a university in the province.

Eighteen year old Loida is a nursing student in a university, a student leader, a youth volunteer and a sweet and thoughtful daughter of Loreto and Teresita Lagonoy of Poblacion, Dimiao, Bohol. Among Loida's fondest moments are those spent with her family and her colleagues in service in LiNC. “Every day that I spent with LiNC is worthy to be cherished. Among the best time we had was last night, when I say them [LiNC] cheering for me. I became even stronger. The enormous support they have shown in different ways made me a better person.” Loida shared.

Loida is involved in LiNC's many activities. She acknowledges that LiNC has made her experience and understand what loyalty to friendship means: “Some cruel people would try to rip the bond, but friendship [that is] true from the heart would never be surpassed by any storm. With LiNC I laugh a lot, serve people and keep the fire of friendship burning.” Loida generously acknowledges the support that her family has given to her. Amidst her busy schedule, she maintains intimacy with her family by giving them tight hugs and embraces. “I believe its one powerful factor which makes the shortest time I spend with them heartwarming and worthwhile.” She shared.

“They [family] have always shown their inherent love and support to me. They have always made me feel that even if the world turns its back on me and obscures my path, I always have a family to turn to.” Loida added. Loida is Ms. Earth Air and the reigning Miss UB. GMA 7's Leo Udtohan had noticed Loida to naturally stand out. “She definitely knows how to walk. At first look, I know she'll win…she looks like a beauty queen. She has the aura of sophistication yet she appears humble. She wears the most cheerful face,” Udtohan quipped.

Being a girl with pure talent, it wasn't a surprise when she won Best in Talent. Her talent in playing the bandoria has been showcased in several important events including the First Philippines-China Youth Ambassadors Program last year wherein LiNC had actively taken part as the secretariat supporting the Sangguniang Kabataan of Bohol .

Loida couln't help but be ecstatic about the achievement which she tributes to the Almighty as a blessing, saying: “I am filled with gratitude and relentlessly praising God for I believe that it wasn't my achievement, it was His miracle which did it all.” After having crowned, Loida shall concentrate more on her studies. She hopes to become an effective professional nurse. Finally, she has this to share: “I want the people to know that I am a very imperfect person, but behind those imperfections is a brave heart that tries to be the best person that can ever be.

Pageantry and production: an event par excellence

Truly spectacular. This season's Miss Bohol International undoubtedly marks the most prestigious and awesome pageant in the annals of Bohol 's aesthetic history. Double kudos to the active and dynamic leadership of TBTK president Betty Veloso-Garcia and Tagbilaran City Lady Jaycees president Pureza Veloso-Chatto for the production masterpiece! It was like being in an Oscar's award night when I arrived at the HNU gym. The balikbayans truly made the night extra special as they come in their stunning gowns and cocktail dresses. Betty Veloso-Garcia looked simply elegant with her black and white striped gown. Pureza Chatto's green cocktail gown exudes the aura and character of confidence and grace.

Bohol 's mega fashion designer Maximiel Tallo attended the event with his eye-catching two-piece Muslim inspired black dress accentuated and highlighted with multi-colored ethnic embroidery. Maximiel enjoyed the event with the well-dressed Yuli Dolojol of Panglao's only real bar in beach stretch of Alona, Oops Bar! Maximiel's terno creation has earned the awe of the distinguished and well-respected board of judges as the Best Gown. The terno is made of fuchsia pink satin ribbon intricately hand-woven to come up with a banig inspired craft. The exceptional creativity and admirable craftsmanship of a Boholano were evident in Maximiel's terno.

Upon entrance, I couldn't help but marvel at the stage design which I later learned was done by architect Boy Dumadag of Blue Grass. Commissioned to come up with a classical stage design, Dumadag utilized the water feature as the focal point of the design. Water feature is usually an element in a garden but Dumadag brought the outdoor garden element to the stage and effectively provided and enhanced the texture and appeal of the stage. The design exuded an ambiance of class and integrity that amplified the prestige of the event. Bohol 's seasoned host Raul Philip Gatal proved to be a Boholano living legend in hosting. Being a veteran host, he hosted the prestigious event with his articulate and dynamic hosting skill. With luminaries, special guests and invited “whose who” judges like Mayor Lito Atienza, Señorita Bea Zobel de Ayala, Jr., Direk Mario delos Reyes and Ricky Lo, Raul is the perfect man for the job! His co-hosts Tali Inting and Ginalyn Ramirez have also proven their eloquence, poise and skill in the field. Indeed, the pageant was a tremendous success. The explosive production number with the spectacle of colors and designs of national costumes had effectively warmed up the spirit of the event.

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