Iloilo Ms. Dinagyang to wear 'newspaper gowns'
Next year's Iloilo Miss Dinagyang will "go green" as 13 beauties will don gowns made from newspapers.
This was revealed by pageant director Rowena Diaz, in line with Ms. Dinagyang's thrust to promote the environment, a component in choosing 2009's beauty queen.
The search for Ms. Dinagyang is one of the awaited highlights of the festival, which is celebrated every fourth of January.
Candidates will wear their 'newspaper gowns' during the evening gown competition.
"We don't have an official couturier next year, so the girls will have to make their own gowns," Diaz said.
Previous editions of the pageant showcased the workmanship of noted designers here.
Diaz said they want Ms. Dinagyang to have a concern for the environment, engage in social welfare activities, and assist in education needs of children in the city.
Fifteen percent of the criteria for judging will go to the best "newspaper gown," wherein the candidates will have an opportunity to display their creativity, fashion sense and resourcefulness in using the recycled materials.
Vying for the Ms. Dinagyang title are the following: Luisa Ace Lambito, Jocelyn Caceres, Stephanie Juanitas, Rapunzel Crystal Palma, Wena Amor Paurillio, Natalie Grace Roberts, Sheryl Maye Manalo, Marie June Bebing, Karla Dawn Yaneza, Kharessa Jyanne Simoy, Ma. Soriel Sorel, Geline Antonette Cabrera, and Kathleen Gamboa. (PNA)