By Glazyl Y. Masculino and Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY – Two inspiring mothers from Negros Occidental are set to compete in Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) 2025, embodying inclusivity and empowerment on the national stage.
Franches Anne Laquibla, 20, crowned Miss Universe Philippines-Negros Occidental, and Louise Lian Enumerable Bobe, 28, appointed Miss Universe Philippines-Bacolod, will represent their respective communities in the pageant.
The journey begins in February when they join the official roster of contestants in Manila, culminating in April with the coronation event where reigning Miss Universe-Asia Chelsea Manalo will pass on her crown.
Kashmere Granada, franchise holder for MUPh-Negros Occidental and Bacolod City, emphasized the significance of this milestone in pageantry.
“This is more than just a competition. It’s a stage for women to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a beauty queen. Through these franchises, we’re giving deserving women, no matter their stage in life, the chance to shine,” Granada said.
Granada, supported by a creative team, ensures the queens are prepared physically, emotionally, and intellectually. Creative contributors include stylist James Larnelle and designers Khalil Gib Estraño and Jude Chael, while Louis Pangilinan showcased his collections during competition segments.
Queens with a Purpose
Laquibla, representing Pontevedra, advocates for body diversity. A single mother to a one-year-old son, she aims to promote self-acceptance and inclusivity.
“I believe true beauty is found in embracing who you are. I want to create a space where all body types are celebrated,” she said.
Bobe, who represented Murcia, is a banker and mother to a three-year-old daughter. Her advocacy focuses on equitable healthcare, financial literacy, and breastfeeding awareness.
“My role as a mother taught me resilience. I want to inspire women to pursue their dreams despite life’s challenges,” Bobe said.
Her platform also highlights affordable cardiovascular care, a cause close to her heart after undergoing heart surgery as a teenager.
A Celebratory Start
The MUPh-Negros Occidental coronation night, held Nov. 24 at SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City, featured 21 contestants from various local government units.
The event showcased local beauty, talent, and creativity while raising funds for Kalipay Negrense Foundation and Feliz Love Foundation.
Notable guests included Miss World 2022 Gwendolyn Fourniol, a proud representative of Negros Occidental, and Miss Cosmo Philippines Ahtisa Manalo.
Laquibla and Bobe emerged as winners, alongside runners-up Althea Nicole Gadingan (Talisay City), Patricia Ysabel Galapino (Ilog), Mary Angelique Faye Caballero (Silay City), and Bernie Larit (Bago City).
As Laquibla and Bobe prepare for the national stage, they carry the hopes and dreams of their community, redefining the evolving face of pageantry.
“Our goal is not just winning but representing Negros Occidental with pride and integrity,” Granada said.
