Jen is an experienced pageant star representing Carcar City, Cebu. She is candidate #11 in the Queen Mother of Cebu beauty pageant.
So, how did you get into pageantry? What made you want to compete?
“I’ve been joining beauty pageants since I was 14. During my teenage years, my goal was to earn extra income from the prizes at stake. As the years went by, it became a passion to be on stage, and I realized that it helped me grow and become a good public speaker. Now that I’m already a mother, I am going back to pageantry and choosing to join Queen Mother of Cebu as it is a unique opportunity for me to combine both my passion and to use my voice for good.
What does beauty mean to you? It’s more than just looks, right?
“Beauty comes from within. It is not solely what you see in the mirror. Beauty is being able to give love and show respect.
What makes you special? What sets you apart from the other contestants?
“Aside from having the most years of experience in pageantry, I am deeply rooted in my advocacy IKAW (Intrepid and Knowledgeable Abused Women) since 2018. I was once a disadvantaged woman, once a victim, but now a soldier for a VAWC-Free Community.
If you win, how would you use your title to help others?
“I will be the light that sheds hope to all mothers that they can still achieve greatness. That they can still contribute to the community while taking care of their own families. I will use the crown as my microphone to amplify my advocacy and the QMC Organization and bring attention to what we truly care about.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned from being in pageants?
“While I’m still backstage, my nerves tend to run high, and I start to feel weak. But the minute I step foot on stage, it’s like I’m entering a magical world that makes me feel alive! For me, it’s one of the coolest experiences I can ever have, and anyone who is blessed to get a taste of this is truly blessed!
How do you deal with people who might say mean things?
“No one can hurt me unless I allow myself to feel hurt. When some people say mean things to me, I let them, and I maintain my cool. I don’t have to react to everything from everyone. I will not let others’ words damage my mental calmness. Moreover, if they have hurt me in the past, I will set the past aside and forgive.
Tell us about a time something amazing happened during a pageant!
“My mother is my number one supporter. In the majority of the pageants I joined, she’s always with me. I find it amazing that when I look at her, I can answer the questions during Q and A more enthusiastically.
What kind of person do you think does well in pageants?
“For me, a person with resilience will definitely do well in pageants. Every pageant may not be a winning moment. And a person with resilience will stand up even after not winning and will work on her weaknesses and turn them into strengths.
Being in a pageant means a lot of people are watching. How do you stay yourself through it all?
“I simply believe in myself and confidently show what I have. I put my best smile on, too.
What do you dream of doing in the future, pageant world or not?
“I will never tire of being in the pageant world. As a professional host, aside from being a beauty queen, I’m also deeply involved in hosting pageants. I think after the QMC Coronation, I will continue hosting pageants. I like to be part of another woman’s journey towards empowerment and getting crowned.”
Make up artist: Michael Nacis
Hair stylist: Kylie Rayne
Skin care: By Jin Beauty Clinic
Cosmetics: Herve Cosmetics
Wardrobe: Something New, Something Borrowed
