Miss Paraw Regatta 2005 crowned

Text and photos by Ronelo S. Ladiao

In the essence of the annual Paraw Regatta celebration of Iloilo City as a cultural heritage and legacy from our ancestors, the search for Ms. Paraw Regatta enthralled the Ilonggos once again to choose the deserving ambassadress of goodwill and reining queen of local tourism last Thursday, February 17, 2005 at 6 p.m. in SM City Iloilo. This year, out of 42 aspiring candidates who undergone hectic screening only twelve finalists were chosen. They are Catherine Carmen of Iloilo Doctor's College, Hazel Quiambao of the Unversity of San Agustin, Ellen Grace Gabayeron of Western Institute of Technology, Jowelie Docdocil of Central Philippine University, Lakambini Balasa of Western Visayas College of Science and Technology, Valerie Ann Genciano of John B Lacson Colleges Foundation, Honey Shane Milliam of Colegio de San Corazon de Jesus, Joanne June Valderrama of CPU, Jelai Moreno of USA, Rachelle Ann Villareal of IDC. The ten pretty finalists paraded in spectacular paraw inspired production number, showed their curvaceous bodies in the swimwear competition, walk with confidence with their splendid gowns created by famous local designers and finally, steal the limelight as they wore the majestic wardrobe creations of Mr. Totong Gellangarin, one of Iloilo's in-demand fashion designer.

PARAW BEAUTIES. The reigning Ms. Paraw Regatta 2005 Jelai Moreno, First Runner-up Rachel Ann Villareal and Second Runner-up Lakambini Balasa pose for a picture taking with the DOT officers and Paraw Regatta Foundation executives.

Finally the minor awards winners were bared. Rachel Ann Villareal won the Ms. Friendship and Best in Interview award, Hazel Quiambao grabbed the Ms. Photogenic award while Jelai Moreno bagged Best in Swimsuit and Designer's Choice award by Totong Gellangarin for fabulously wearing his creations.