‘TOL VIEWS
The Philippines takes deep pride in the beauty and charm of Filipinas. This is perhaps why beauty pageants are a regular spectacle during special celebrations such as founding anniversaries, school fairs and fiestas, among others. In most colleges and universities, pageants are quite a regular thing as well. It is not surprising then that even among women cadets enrolled in the Reserve Officers Training Course, the Miss ROTC pageant has become an equally anticipated highlight in the annual ROTC Games.
The Miss ROTC pageant is not a mere showcase of beauty, grace and poise for women cadets. Much like the more popular Binibining Pilipinas, the Miss ROTC pageant is likewise a showcase of the candidates’ character and leadership potential. The pageant is a means to highlight the broadening role of women in Philippine society, sharing with their male counterparts the responsibility to serve and lead the country. The Miss ROTC pageant weaves our beautiful culture into the tapestry of military discipline and elevates women cadets as equally vital elements of the Philippines’ defense force. In the Miss ROTC pageant, we vividly see the dynamically transforming image of the Filipina – the leader, the nation-builder.
The 2024 Philippine ROTC Games – Visayas Leg began last May 26 in Bacolod City. Air Force First Lieutenant Claire M. Gregorio from the University of Negros Occidental Recolletos outshined 24 other female cadets and was crowned Miss ROTC Visayas 2024. Battling to out-charm, out-wit and out-poise each other, the 21 candidates of the Miss ROTC Visayas were indeed their island’s pride. The Mindanao and Luzon tournaments are set to launch on June 29 and July 28, respectively. While there is much excitement as several sports events have been added to this year’s ROTC Games, the Miss ROTC pageant remains an equally anticipated part.
The Miss ROTC is not simply a search for beautiful, poised, outstanding female cadets. It is similarly an affirmation of the young Filipina’s intelligence, discipline, patriotism, and leadership skills, among many other qualities that have broadened her role in society and nation building. The Miss ROTC is a testament to our continuing advances in terms of gender inclusivity. The Miss ROTC can likewise be a breeding ground not only for future beauty queens but more importantly, for empowered women leaders of the future upon whom our country can rely for positive change and holistic transformation.