LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte – A gorgeous Education student of the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) was crowned Miss Ilocos Norte 2023 during the final round of the beauty pageant held at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena on Wednesday evening, May 24, here.
Lovely M. Demandante, 20, a Dingras town resident, bested the other 22 modern Ilokanas vying for the title with her natural stunner and imposing height of 5'9". She also bagged the Best in Municipal Costume award.
The other winners were Tourism student Kate Winslet V. Villa, 19, of Solsona town, who took first runner-up and adjudged Best in Swimsuit.
Mariela Biaca Q. Acob of Bacarra town, Samantha Jane Aganon of Badoc town, and Maria Pamela Ellena S. Agurita of Paoay town were the second, third, and fourth runners-up, respectively.
Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc cited the significance of this beauty pageant in their advocacy of the rich culture and heritage of the province.
"Miss Ilocos Norte has always been about more than just beauty and advocacies. Our winners receive scholarships, and (they) carry out meaningful campaigns in their communities," said Manotoc.
"We do not only celebrate the 23 Ilokanas here on stage, but we celebrate the Ilokana, the greatness of Ilokana, who composed the very bedrock of the Ilokano society," he added.
In a report from the Communications and Media Office (CMO) of the provincial capitol, this is the second Miss Ilocos Norte main title that the municipality of Dingras claimed. The first was in 2016.
Meanwhile, Demandante and her fellow winners will serve as the province's ambassadors in youth affairs, education, tourism, and environmental conservation, among others.