Ormoc City Superdome was illuminated with anticipation on April 24, 2024, as Western Leyte College had its search for the new Miss WLC 2024. The evening event commenced promptly at 6:00 PM, welcoming a full house of eager students and attendees, poised to witness the spectacular battle of beauty and brain. At precisely 7:50 PM, cheers reverberated through the venue as the lights dimmed. The official proceedings commenced at 8:00 PM with the introduction of WLC President, Emanuel A. Fiel, alongside an engaging opening address. 

      Guiding the evening’s proceedings with the affable host, Mr. WLC World 2017, Roguin Suson, who commanded the stage with a charismatic presence. The event unfolded with a spectacular production number featuring the Miss WLC candidates in collaboration with Ormoc City’s dancesport team, followed by the regal entrance of the reigning queen, Amehan Gonzales, bedecked in gold attire. Each candidate then eloquently introduced themselves, representing their respective department, laying the foundation for an evening of both fierce competition and camaraderie. 

      Special awards were bestowed upon standout contestants, honored for their exceptional qualities. Julia Tiarra G. Rebaño, representing the High School department as candidate number 14, secured the title of Miss Photogenic. Anelyn C. Alicaya, hailing from the CICTE department as candidate number 5, was celebrated as Miss Congeniality. Kaye Chammy R. Quiamco of COAB as candidate number 13 clinched the titles of Miss GLD, while candidate number 8, Princess Aila Desabille, also from COAB, earned the accolades of Miss Luxe Skin and Miss Jessica Design and Build. Geovanna Catalina C. Dawa, representing CONAHS as candidate number 12, swept multiple titles including Miss Nathania, Miss Skincare, and Miss Supercat. The anticipation reached its zenith as the criteria for selecting the top 7 finalists were unveiled by Florwin Angelo Arguelles, Mr. WLC World 2023, followed by the introduction of esteemed adjudicators tasked with determining the evening’s victor. 

The competition intensified with a captivating swimsuit showcase, succeeded by a thought-provoking Preliminary Q&A round. A delightful surprise awaited the audience as The Clash S3 grand champion, Jessica Villarubin, took the stage, infusing the atmosphere with her vibrant and uplifting melodies, captivating the hearts of all present. The anticipation was met with fervor as minor awards were presented, recognizing the candidates’ excellence across various categories. Geovanna Catalina C. Dawa, representing CONAHS as candidate number 12, claimed victory as Best in Production Number and Best in Swimsuit. In a display of elegance, candidate number 14, Julia Tiarra G. Rebaño from the High School department, was crowned Best in Evening Gown, adding to the evening’s array of distinguished honors. 

      Following the presentation of minor awards, Rayver Cruz graced the stage, treating the audience to a soul-stirring performance of three enchanting songs. His presence elicited waves of affection and appreciation, filling the entire dome with love and admiration.  

      As tension reached its zenith, the top 7 finalists were announced, propelling them into the eagerly awaited final question and answer segment. Those who secured their place in the next round include Geovanna Catalina C. Dawa, candidate number 12 from CONAHS; Julia Tiarra G. Rebaño, candidate number 14 from the High School department; Stephanie Keizha C. Larrazabal, candidate number 7 from CONAHS; Princess Aila Desabille, candidate number 8 from COAB; Reiss Mae A. Perez, candidate number 11 from CICTE; Aaliyah Joppa Uberas, candidate number 3 from the School of Law/Political Science; and Kaye Chammy R. Quiamco, candidate number 13 from COAB. 

      With poised eloquence, each finalist expressed their unwavering dedication to upholding the esteemed values of Western Leyte College. The evening culminated in the poignant farewell walk of the reigning Miss WLC 2023, Amehan Gonzales, followed by the final procession of the candidates, marking a beautiful conclusion to the event.  In a moment of triumph, the victors emerged. Kaye Chammy R. Quiamco, candidate number 3 from the School of Law/Political Science, claimed the title of fourth runner-up. Princess Aila Desabille, candidate number 8 from COAB, secured third runner-up. Julia Tiarra G. Rebaño, representing the High School department as candidate number 14, earned the position of second runner-up. Stephanie Keizha C. Larrazabal, candidate number 7 from CONAHS, was awarded first runner-up. Finally, the coveted title of Miss Western Leyte College 2024 was bestowed upon candidate number 12 from CONAHS, Geovanna Catalina C. Dawa. 

With a seamless blend of grace, glamour, and intellectual prowess, Miss WLC 2024 transcended as an unforgettable event, showcasing the remarkable talent and beauty of Ormoc City’s finest.

Written by Jedrick Perjes (ACT)