An Open Letter for the newly- crowned Miss Bohol 2018

This post is an offshoot to the recent Miss Bohol 2018 crowning whose winner has been the object of intense scrutiny and the helpless target of cyber bullies and bashers.

To Raclaire Stephan Dinsay Cesar Trigo, Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2018 and now our Miss Bohol 2018, 

Let not the booing take away the glitter from your crown and the joy in your victory. If it's any consolation, it wasn't directed at you personally but was a spur of the moment reaction by some quarters who had their respective bets and it's understandable knowing how passionate we are when it comes to supporting our pageant bets.

 Swimsuit & Intro of Candidates (Swimsuit by Mikee Andrei)

It always happens in pageants even in Miss Universe where our own Pia Wurtzbach was also booed and experienced worse things that included having bottled water thrown at the stage, getting death threats and having her image and likeness burned in the streets of Colombia.

This is now your defining moment. Be the first to reach out and unite everyone. So far, I admire how you have handled this test of character with your grace and humility. 

Elan & elegance during the evening gown competition (Gown by Roi Erwin Tizon)

As I was telling my seatmates last night at the venue, whoever wins the swimsuit and gown competitions would already be the frontrunner. Your response during the final round may not be the best but it wasn't the worst. It was heartfelt and you answered on the affirmative because it was a question that needed a yes or no response. 

 An elated Raclaire reacts after the announcement

You might have been rattled a bit but who wouldn't be distracted by the noise and hissing from the crowd? In fairness, you made a quick recovery and you wrapped up your response with an emphasis on the warm, friendly and hospitable nature of Boholanos which sadly but understandably was sorely missing during last night's crowning moment. 

 Miss Bohol 2018 and her Court of Honor

Finally, you highlighted your winsome smile, commanding stage presence, queenly demeanour and charisma, the same sterling attributes that made you Mutya 2018 during last night's pageant. 

So hold your head high for you won fair and square. Long may you reign and be the Quintessential Boholana that truly cares

Photo Credits: Gerald James Cabal Photography