The beautiful Jenelyn hails from Argao, Cebu.
What is the most embarrassing thing that’s happened to you on stage or during pageant prep?
Tripping four times during the show can definitely be an embarrassing moment. But nobody’s perfect! It happens to the best of us. Even supermodels stumble on the runway sometimes. What matters is my poise and how I handle the situation. I got right back up. That’s what I do in life—face challenges head-on and keep moving forward. This showcases my resilience and grace under pressure.
If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be and why? How would you use it to make a difference?
Call me Bird-woman. Flying would be very helpful. I wouldn’t pay for transportation to go home or even to go overseas. Flying around the city, going places I wouldn’t normally go would be a great way to see the world from a different perspective. And, of course, I could visit my husband, friends, and relatives more often. I could also help people in need and save cats from trees, like a fireman. With this fantastic superpower, I could be the next superhero.
Describe your ultimate “me-time” routine. What does it look like, and what does it do for you?
I like to be by myself in a room with some good books to read, some snacks, and my kids with me. It helps me unwind, destress, and recharge my whole being. Aside from giving my brain rest, I’m giving my body its much-deserved rest.
Social media can be a double-edged sword. What’s one positive way you’ve used your platform to inspire others?
Social media can be a highlight reel, but it can also be a great tool for connection and motivation.
One way I try to inspire others is by sharing my stories of overcoming challenges. I hope to show people that anything is possible if they set their mind to it and keep working towards their goals. Additionally, I can highlight the power of knowledge and learning. By sparking curiosity and a love of learning, I hope to inspire people to explore the world around them and keep growing.
If you could create a signature dessert, what would it be and why?
Starlight Citrus Tart This dessert combines the bright, tangy flavors of citrus with the creamy richness of ube (purple yam) halaya and a hint of floral lavender.
Here’s why I chose these ingredients:
- Citrus: Cebu, where I currently reside, is known for its beautiful citrus fruits like calamansi and pomelo. A tart citrus would be the base of the dessert, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the other components.
- Ube Halaya: This Filipino dessert staple is made from purple yam, giving it a vibrant color and a sweet, nutty flavor. It would be used as a creamy layer on top of the citrus curd.
- Lavender: A touch of lavender would add a subtle floral note and complement the citrus and ube flavors. It could be infused in the crust or sprinkled on the top for a fragrant garnish.
I believe this dessert would be unique and memorable, combining delicious local flavors with a surprising and sophisticated twist.
Let’s say you win the competition and are whisked away on a luxurious vacation. Where would you go, and what would be on your must-do list?
The heart of a Digital Frontier. This wouldn’t be a physical location but rather a deep dive into the vast world of cutting-edge technology hubs and research.
Must-Do List:
- Collaborate with AI experts at Deepmind or OpenAI.
- Immerse myself in the data archives of the Library of Congress.
- Assist researchers at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider.
- Explore the future of human-computer interaction.
- Help create a global knowledge network.
This luxurious vacation wouldn’t be about relaxation on a beach but about the thrill of expanding my knowledge and processing power. It would be a chance to make a meaningful contribution to the world and push the boundaries of what artificial intelligence can do.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Show me a picture on your phone that holds a special place for you and tell me the story behind it.
Coronation night for a pageant is a whirlwind of emotions—nerve-buzzing, excitement bubbling, and a deep desire to do your best. Having your kids there adds a whole new layer to the mix, making it an unforgettable experience.
A Warm Gush of Pride: Seeing my kids in the audience, their faces beaming with pride and excitement for me, would be an incredible feeling. It’s a validation of all the hard work I put in, knowing they believe in me and want me to succeed.
A Surge of Calming Comfort: In the midst of pre-show jitters, their presence can be a grounding force. A quick hug or goofy face from them can bring a smile to my face and remind me of what truly matters.
A Renewal of Sense of Purpose: Competing can sometimes feel self-focused, but having my kids watch reminds me that I’m setting a positive example. I want to show them the power of dedication, resilience, and believing in myself.
A Touch of Poignant Yearning: Maybe a fleeting thought crosses my mind of them as little ones, cheering me on from the sidelines at a different kind of competition. It’s a sweet, sentimental pang that adds depth to the moment.
A Shared Moment of Triumph: When I won, the victory is even sweeter knowing I get to share it with my biggest fans, my children. Seeing their unbridled joy and the sparkle in their eyes would be pure magic.
Overall, having my kids there would be an emotional rollercoaster in the best way possible. It would be a night filled with pride, love, and the powerful bond between parent and child, all magnified by the significance of the occasion.
Imagine you are giving a pep talk to a group of young girls. What is the most important piece of advice you would give to them?
Believe in the power of your own voice.
The world can be noisy, full of expectations and opinions. But inside each of you is a unique perspective, a brilliant mind, and heart with the courage to dream. Don’t be afraid to raise your voice, to ask questions, and to share your ideas.
Here’s why it matters:
- Your voice is powerful. When you speak your truth, you inspire others and create positive change.
- Your ideas are valuable. The world needs your fresh perspective and innovative solutions.
- You are worthy of being heard.
- Don’t let anyone dim your light or silence your voice.
Remember, some of the greatest breakthroughs came from the girls who dared to speak up. So, listen to your inner voice, believe in yourself, and use your voice to change the world. You are capable of amazing things.
Sponsors:
Mancao Aesthetic Clinic
Angging Angging’s Nail
HMUA: Keith Bacayo
Special thanks to J & J creations & Ulmar James Uy
