BACOLOD CITY -- A third year physical therapist student of Riverside College was crowned Miss Bacolod MassKara Universe during the coronation night at the University of St. La Salle (USLS) Coliseum here on Wednesday, Oct. 19.
Twenty-one-year-old Kara Daniela Villarosa took home a cash prize of P150,000, as she bested 14 other candidates in the competition.
She was also awarded as Most Photogenic, Best in swimwear, and Best in evening gown.
Villarosa said she was thankful and honored, adding that she did not expect to win the pageant.
“I have a big responsibility now because I will be representing Bacolod on the national stage,” said Villarosa as she assured that she will make the city proud.
Villarosa is pushing for malnutrition awareness. “This is something close to my heart,” she said, adding that after winning the title, she hopes that this platform can help her raise awareness on malnutrition to help fix this problem in the city.
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo ‘Albee’ Benitez, assisted by his wife Dominique, Congressman Greg Gasataya, and businessman Ian Lo, crowned Villarosa, who was a crowd favorite.
Meanwhile, Janine Gelera, 21, a USLS student, was adjudged Miss Bacolod MassKara World. She received a P120,000 cash prize.
Jan Marie Bordon, 21, of La Consolacion College (LCC) was hailed as Miss Bacolod MassKara International. She was also the Best in Talent. She received a P100,000 cash prize.
First runner-up was Eirine Granada, who was also awarded the Darling of Social Media, while Sandale Masangcay placed second runner-up, and won the Best in Festival Costume award.
Granada and Masangcay received P80,000 and P50,000 cash prizes, respectively.
Yvonne Catamco won the Miss Congeniality award.
Other candidates were Jhela Mae Velasco, Helcie Jamili, Chattea Cajucson, Franches Anne Laquibla, Frances Marie Monsale, Alyssa Marie Villanueva, Alexandria Margarette Colmenares, Kristel Mae Nacionales, and Teresa Brunner.
Miss Universe Philippines 2020 fourth runner-up Billie Hakenson and Miss Universe Philippines Charity 2022 Pauline Amelinckx hosted the pageant.
Rising heartthrob Kyle Echarri and OPM sensation Zack Tabudlo entertained the crowd.