13/08/2026
𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧: SNAian Representatives Take on the APSTaP Stage
With confidence and determination, Sto. Niño Academy’s Cedric Ethan Galang and Yliah Angel Roy Santos stepped onto the Mr. and Ms. APSTaP stage last August 12, 2026, at Eduardo Cojuanco Gymnasium in Paniqui, Tarlac, representing SNA as they faced the spotlight, the competition, and the challenges of a bigger stage.
For Cedric Galang, the competition marked his first time competing at APSTaP. With only a week to prepare after finding out that he would represent SNA, he admitted that the opportunity came with pressure, especially with the school’s history of securing spots in the Top 5 in previous APSTaP competitions.
“Since this was my first time stepping onto a bigger stage, I felt very nervous because I wasn’t even aware that I would be representing our school in APSTAP. I only had one week to prepare,” he stated.
Despite the pressure, rehearsals gradually helped him turn his doubts into confidence. He eventually entered the Top 10 and faced the Q&A segment with greater assurance.
“But during rehearsal, all the doubts and pressure turned into confidence. So when I entered the Top 10, I felt confident, especially during the Q&A, because I knew I could do it—and I did,” he added.
Although he fell short of the placement he had hoped for, Galang remained grateful for the opportunity to represent SNA. For him, the experience went beyond the pursuit of a crown and became an opportunity to give his best while carrying his school’s name.
“Being able to step onto a bigger stage and represent our school is what matters most to me. Maybe it just wasn’t my time yet, but I know God has another plan for me. Nilaban ko hindi lang yung sarili ko, kundi pati na rin yung school. Despite having only a short time to prepare, I gave everything I had, and I’m proud that I was able to represent SNA,” Galang shared.
Meanwhile, Yliah Santos took on the APSTaP stage for the first time during her final year in SNA, describing the experience as unforgettable as she embraced the opportunity to represent her school. Throughout the competition, Santos also earned the title of Ms. Congeniality, adding a meaningful recognition to her first APSTaP experience.
“Stepping onto the Mr. & Ms. APSTaP stage for the very first time was a really unforgettable experience… when they asked me instead, I grabbed the opportunity because I was so determined to give it a try, especially since it's my last year in SNA, and I thought it might be a sign from God,” Santos stated.
Throughout the competition, Santos admitted to feeling fear and pressure, particularly because of SNA’s history of consistently placing on the APSTaP podium. Despite these challenges, she remained confident when she finally stepped onto the stage.
“Right there on stage during the competition, I was very confident. I knew in myself that I really performed and gave my best,” she added.
When her number was not called, Santos admitted that her initial thoughts were influenced by her fear of what others might say. However, looking back on the experience, she realized that the outcome did not define the value of her journey.
“In the end, I realized that maybe it just wasn't my time yet. That’s why my APSTaP journey is one of my best memories, even with a little bit of a what if,” Santos shared.
Despite the outcome, Santos acknowledged that the experience remained meaningful to her and taught her that representing SNA went beyond receiving a title. She emphasized that facing her fears and giving her best throughout the competition were victories in themselves.
“Looking back, I may not have brought home the crown or placed on the podium, but APSTaP is still one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. It taught me that representing our school isn't defined by a title, because my purpose was never to be admired, but to inspire. And for me, stepping up, facing all my fears, and giving my whole heart to that journey is already a victory,” Santos added.
Beyond the crown, Galang and Santos leave the APSTaP stage carrying an experience marked by courage, growth, and pride—proving that representing SNA is not measured solely by where their names are called, but also by how bravely they chose to step forward.
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🖋: Nikki Santos
🖥: Maxene Santos
