BACOLOD CITY – A third-year veterinary medicine student was crowned Lin-ay sang Negros in this year’s 28th Panaad sa Negros Festival.
Kyla Rose Romarate, from Victorias City, Negros Occidental, bested 28 other candidates during the coronation night at the Panaad Park and Stadium here on Friday, April 19.

ROMARATE (Photo courtesy of Lin-ay sang Negros 2024 Facebook)
She also bagged the awards for best in festival costume for the city seal category and best in evening gown.
Romarate pocketed P80,000 cash prize and a full scholarship grant from the provincial government.
Zoe Clarisse Limson of Cauayan town was the first runner-up and bagged eight corporate and minor awards, including the best in swimwear and darling of social media.
Ilog town’s Patricia Ysabel Galapino was the second runner-up, Roshyn Kate Jamantoc of Talisay City was the third runner-up, and fourth runner-up was Gelisa Marie Nangan of Hinigaran town.
In a Facebook post, Victorias Mayor Javi Benitez lauded Romarate for her achievement.
“You were beautiful, eloquent, and passionate beyond doubt throughout the entire competition and you delivered on when it was needed most. I know how hard you and your team have worked for this,” Benitez said.
“My humble hope for you is to never lose your grace and to always stay authentic.”