Inspired by her grandparents, Princess Ella Olmilla took on the challenge and emerged as this year’s Miss Bacolod MassKara during the Coronation Night at the USLS Coliseum in Bacolod City on Saturday, Oct. 19.
Olmilla’s wit, beauty, and captivating personality impressed the judges as she excelled in the Super Bacoleña, Swimwear, Evening Gown, and Q&A rounds.
An advocate for elderly care and a graduate of Colegio San Agustin Bacolod with a degree in Accounting Information Systems, she dedicated the crown to her five grandparents, especially her late grandmother, Lola Ella Olmilla, who raised her during her childhood.
“This has been a dream of my grandmother ever since I was 16, and I believe I not only carried this journey with me but also carried her legacy,” she said, expressing her excitement about preparing for the national stage.
Olmilla stood out among 15 exceptional candidates, winning the titles of Best in Swimwear, Best in Evening Gown, and several special awards, including Miss Merzci, Miss Ysa Botanica, Miss MKU Construction, Miss MassKara Chicken, Miss SM Store Bacolod, Miss Bacolod JOR Travel & Tours, Miss Bingo Plus, and the Radiant Smile Award.
Hospitality Management student Akeisha Nicole Nuarin was named 1st Runner-Up, while PWD advocate Cindy Valencia claimed 2nd Runner-Up.
Nuarin also won Best in Festival, while Valencia took home Best in Talent, Miss Dito Telecommunity, and Miss Northwest Inn titles.
Jhudiel Micha Maris Lianda received Miss Congeniality, and Sophia Zaragoza was awarded Most Photogenic and Darling of Social Media.
Notable guests included Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez, Congressman Greg Gasataya, former Mayor Monico Puentevella, and Victorias City Mayor Javi Benitez.
Councilors Cindy Rojas, Claudio Puentevella, Thaddeus Sayson, Jason Villarosa, and Israel Salanga also attended.
Bacolod MassKara Festival Chairman Jojie Dingcong and Bacolod Yuhum Foundation officials graced the event.
The pageant was hosted by actor Marco Gumabao and Cristalle Belo-Pitt, with a special performance by GMA artist Patrick Quiroz. The event showcased Bacolod’s vibrant culture and the festive spirit of the MassKara Festival.
The Miss Bacolod MassKara 2024 pageant was directed by Rodney Ascalon and chaired by Carlos Durana.