For the first time, the province of Ilocos Norte is set to host a gay beauty pageant dubbed as the “Miss Ilocoslovakla” on February 14, 2016 in front of the Provincial Capitol.
The pageant intensifies the support of the provincial government to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community in the province, aiming to educate and uphold respect among all genders in the society.
Ilocos Norte Tourism Office (INTO) Head Aianree Raquel hopes that the event will yield a positive response among Ilocanos, admitting that it is “an experimental activity, making it the first time that the provincial government is organizing a gay beauty pageant.”
He added that preparations are underway and “we are now working with our artists and performers” to ensure that the unmatched creativity of the Ilocano gay community will be successfully highlighted.
In the past years, Governor Imee R. Marcos has remained a staunch supporter of the Ilocano gay community by providing several opportunities that feature their talents and skills which are being harnessed to support the developmental efforts of the provincial government.
The 30 competing candidates, who were rigorously screened last February 3, will represent the various gay communities of their respective municipalities and cities in the province as well as the Ilocano gay groups across the world.
Meanwhile, the Miss Ilocoslovakla 2016 will be holding its pre-pageant on February 12, 2016, 7:00 PM in front of the Provincial Capitol wherein the candidates are expected to showcase their talents, said INTO.
During the coronation night on February 14, the candidates will be judged by well-known personalities and LGBT advocates.
Moreover, the event will serve as the Valentine’s Day offering of the provincial government as local bands are expected to perform.
In light with the recent Miss Universe craze that took over in the country in the past months, the pageant is also taking a witty spin-off to the popular line of Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach with its official hashtag, #ConfidentlyBeautifulWithATwist,noted INTO.—John Michael Mugas, PGIN-CMO
