By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD CITY – “I was once that little girl who dreamed of having a crown.”
This was how Princess Ella Olmilla recalled her journey in beauty pageants after winning the title of Miss Bacolod MassKara 2024 during the coronation night at the University of St. La Salle (USLS) Coliseum on October 19.
Olmilla, an Accounting Information System graduate of Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod, stood out among 15 candidates in the Sapphire edition of this year’s Miss Bacolod MassKara.
During the pageant, she also won Best in Swimwear, Best in Evening Gown, and several corporate awards.
In a media interview, Olmilla encouraged aspiring beauty queens to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. “I hope my journey inspires you,” she said.
She shared that one of the most memorable moments of her Miss Bacolod MassKara experience was performing a tribute to her late grandmother by playing her favorite song during the talent competition.
“I hope she continues to guide me, to be the wind beneath my wings, because I soar to heights when I’m with her,” Olmilla said.
Raised by her grandparents, Olmilla emphasized the importance of caring for the elderly, stressing that they deserve proper attention and support.
She admitted to doubting herself at times but credited her grandparents and supporters for keeping her grounded.
An advocate for elderly care, Olmilla dedicated her crown to her five grandparents, particularly her late grandmother, Lola Ella, who raised her.
“This has been my grandmother’s dream ever since I was 16, and I believe I not only carried this journey with me but also carried her legacy,” she said, expressing excitement about preparing for the national stage.
“Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) is a dream for me, and I will make sure not to let any Bacolodnon down,” Olmilla added, promising to prepare thoroughly for the national competition.
Though she admitted feeling pressure, Olmilla said she views it not as a burden but as a challenge to improve herself for the national stage.
Meanwhile, first runner-up was Akeisha Nicole Nuarin, a Hospitality Management student, who also won the Best in Festival award.
Second runner-up was Cindy Valencia, a third-year Business Administration student at USLS, who advocates for awareness and empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Valencia also received the Best in Talent award.
Jhudiel Micha Maris Lianda was named Miss Congeniality, while Sophia Zaragoza won Most Photogenic and Darling of Social Media.
Other candidates included Ella Gozon, Quennie Kuan, Angelica Gwen Tenero, Bea Tricia De La Peña, Mary Heloise Ginson, Gesille Mae Sullivan, Gwyn Maricon Lopez, Jasmine Mahilum, Ed Marie Aguilar, and Cailah Jhane Delarma.
The pageant was hosted by actor Marco Gumabao and Cristalle Belo-Pitt, with a special performance by GMA artist Patrick Quiroz. Directed by Rodney Ascalon and chaired by Carlos Durana, the event highlighted Bacolod’s vibrant culture and the festive spirit of the MassKara Festival, now in its 45th year.
