18/09/2026
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ππππππ | Beneath the Crown: The Grit Behind the Glory
Cheers and deafening applause echoed through Cebu Technological University β Naga Extension Campus as Unit 1 (BEEd) celebrated a double victory during the coronation night of Mr. and Ms. Premier 2026, held under the vibrant theme of SINAG. In a tight competition of intellect, poise, and talent, Richbarn Barolo and Lejane Manaytay emerged on top, securing the prestigious titles for their department. Yet, behind their confident smiles and shining crowns lie relatable stories of physical exhaustion, sudden doubts, and immense gratitude.
For Manaytay, earning the crown was an overwhelming surprise, especially given the strong line-up of candidates across all units. βFirst and foremost, wala jud ko nag-expect, kay akong mga co-candidates maayo sad baya kaayo,β she confessed.
The preparation took a heavy toll on her, requiring sacrifices that audience members never saw from the seats. Despite the physical strain, she chose to push forward. βWala jud ko ga-expect, but then, I realized and I do believe in myself nga kaya nako ug I do believe kung unsa akong ability. I'm proud kay worth it jud tanan akong kahago, maski nagkapasmo na,β Manaytay recalled.
Her victory serves as a personal milestone and a tribute to the community that backed her throughout the journey. βI am so happy kay akong parents, family, peers, and friends, nahimo jud nako silang proud [I made them proud]. This is my second time winning a pageant, and I believe this experience will lead to bigger opportunities. As a CTUhanon, I will bring the power, the dignity, and the integrity,β she added.
Behind the curtains, Barolo went through a similar wave of mixed emotions as the results were announced. βFirstly, excitement, then doubts nga deserve ba nako,β Barolo shared. βWala pa jud siya ni-sink in sa akong mind nga nidaog ko, like murag ni-hang pa akong paminaw samtang gipilian pa mi as Mr. Premier. But at the end of the day, akoβy napilian [ako ang napili].β
Instead of highlighting personal merit alone, he attributed his victory to the community that supported him through every phase of the pageant. βI am thankful for everyone who supported meβmy family, my friends, the people who helped solicit, my classmates, and everyone at Cebu Technological University β Naga Extension Campus. Thank you jud kaayo sa tanan kay nitabang jud mo sa tanan-tanan nakong needs,β Barolo stated.
The competition also named Rens Alicaya of Unit 1 (BEEd) and Stephanie Montebon of Unit 2 (BSEd) as Mr. and Ms. Premier 2nd Runners-up, followed by Denver Canencia of Unit 2 (BSEd) and Koreen Eihra Kim of Unit 1 (BEEd) as Mr. and Ms. Premier 1st Runners-up.
For the university community, Barolo and Manaytayβs triumph proves that pageantry reaches far beyond glamorous walks and bright spotlights. True victory is defined by quiet discipline, mental endurance, and the humility to carry the trust of the campus.
In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, their journey advances SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by emphasizing emotional grit and holistic health amid high-pressure milestones, while championing SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the development of student leadership, confidence, and character.
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Words by: Venisse C. Bolocboloc
Layout by: Kathleen B. Estella
