CEBU, Philippines — Cebu has two delegates for the upcoming Reyna ng Aliwan 2024 competition, and they have a tough – though not insurmountable – task of nailing a back-to-back win after Sinulog Festival Queen 2023 Kiara Liane Wellington’s triumph last year.
Reigning Sinulog Festival Queen Mariel Bogert will represent Cebu City's Sinulog Festival, while Pasigarbo sa Sugbo Festival Queen 2022 Mia Loureen Tamayo is the bet for Cebu Province’s Pasigarbo sa Sugbo Festival.
Bogert, who hails from Carcar City, is of Filipino, Dutch and German descent. The Nutrition and Dietetics major at the University of San Carlos has won Pasigarbo sa Sugbo Festival Queen 2023 representing the Dinagat Festival of Dinagat Island, and then as Sinulog Festival Queen 2024 representing Tribu Canlaon of Negros Oriental.
Tamayo, on the other hand, has been hailed as Sinulog Festival Queen sa Lalawigan 2024 representing Carcar City, and was Pasigarbo sa Sugbo Festival Queen 2022 for Carcar City’s Kabkaban Festival.
Reyna ng Aliwan aims to showcase the intellect, talent and beauty of young Filipinas hailing from various cities of the Philippines. The tilt began in 2003, giving an avenue for women to promote their hometown’s tourism, culture, traditions, and heritage.
Cebu holds the most Reyna ng Aliwan title-holders, which include Miss Earth 2014 Jamie Herrell, Miss Universe Philippines 2021 second runner-up Steffi Rose Aberasturi, and Miss Eco International 2018 Cynthia Thomalla.
The Reyna ng Aliwan 2024 finals will be held on June 28 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Theater in Pasay City. — Kassandra Venice P. Broca, CNU Intern