By Ricky J. Bautista
BASEY, Philippines — The anticipation and glamour of the Mutya han Samar Grand Coronation Night reached their peak on August 9, 2024, at the Municipal Gym in Basey, Samar.
Mary Faith Libres from Gandara, who also won the “Best in Evening Gown”, dazzled the audience and claimed the prestigious title of Mutya han Samar 2024, marking a memorable moment in the pageant’s celebrated history.
A Star Emerges
Representing Gandara, Mary Faith Libres’s victory was the highlight of the evening. Her grace, intelligence, and poise won the judges’ hearts and earned her the top honor being Samar’s queen.
As Mutya han Samar 2024, Libres is poised to represent not only her town but also the province of Samar on a broader stage. Her role will involve promoting tourism, cultural heritage, and environmental awareness, aligning with the values upheld by the pageant.
In an interview following her win, Libres expressed her gratitude and excitement. “Winning the title of Mutya han Samar 2024 is a dream come true. It’s an honor to represent Gandara and to be part of such a significant tradition. I am committed to using this platform to advocate for the things I am passionate about and to contribute positively to our community,” she shared.
Looking Forward
As the new Mutya han Samar, Mary Faith Libres’s journey is just beginning. Her reign will involve various engagements and responsibilities, including participating in Samar Day celebrations and other community events. The pageant’s impact extends beyond the crown, influencing local pride and cultural appreciation across the province.
The Mutya han Samar pageant, a cherished tradition since 1980, brings together young women from across Samar to celebrate beauty and cultural heritage. This year’s competition featured a diverse group of talented candidates, each representing their respective towns with pride and enthusiasm.
Top Contenders and Their Hometowns
Alongside Libres, several other remarkable contestants were recognized for their exceptional qualities:
Angelica Baleros from Sta. Rita, who was crowned Mutya han Samar – Tourism.
Farah Jane Rebustillo from Calbayog City, awarded Mutya han Samar – Environment.
Shane Rovie Luay from Daram, named Mutya han Samar – Heritage.
Kylie Nicole Tabungar from Basey, honored as Mutya han Samar – Youth.
These finalists showcased their unique attributes and deep connection to their hometowns, contributing to the rich tapestry of the pageant.
Top winners received cash prizes, crowns among other tokens and were personally congratulated by Top Samar officials, invited guests and sponsors.
The Top 10 Queens
From a competitive pool of 20 candidates, the Top 10 finalists were celebrated for their outstanding performances. They represented a range of towns and cities:
Basey (Kylie Nicole Tabungar)
Sta. Rita (Angelica Baleros)
Calbayog City (Farah Jane Rebustillo)
Gandara (Mary Faith Libres)
Tarangnan (Cynthia Regino Lincopines)
Matuguinao (Carla Jane Turcido)
Daram (Shane Rovie Luay)
San Jorge (Elain Maga)
Paranas (Kyla Marie Corregidor)
Catbalogan (Francesca Jean Sumpo)
Additionally, the other ten participants included: Talalora: Marylene Conge Abantao; Tagapul-an: Angel Grace Limpiado Aliluya; Sto. Niño: Ma. Karen Clave; Sta. Margarita: Strawberry Pondang; San Sebastian: Andrea Cerdeña! Pinabacdao: Sophia Bianca Matas; Pagsanghan: Abegail Gal; Motiong: Grace Langi; Marabut: Janelle Peca; and Hinabangan: Lian Angel Ocenar.
Honoring Achievements
Special awards were also presented, with Mutya han Basey and Mutya han Gandara sharing the title of Best in Filipiña Terno. This recognition highlighted their exemplary traditional attire, a key element of the pageant.
Corporate awards were earlier given to:
Ms. JCI and Ms. Avon: Miss Sta. Rita
Ms. Metro: Miss Catbalogan City
Ms. Red Iron Hotel: Miss Sta. Margarita
Ms. La Sierra Island Resort: Miss Paranas
Ms. Fit Zone Ville: Miss Gandara
Ms. Novellino: Miss Matuguinao
Looking Ahead
As the pageant concludes, Mary Faith Libres’s reign as Mutya han Samar 2024 begins. Her role will involve various public engagements and promoting the values of the pageant.
Mutya han Samar remains a significant celebration of beauty and cultural pride, with Libres’s victory serving as a shining example of the pageant’s enduring legacy.
The Grand Coronation Night was hosted by no other than Miss Earth Air 2023 – Yllana Marie Aduana and Mr. Sean Kyle Ortiga Ramirez. They were co-hosted by Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Finalist – Tamara Ocier.
The next Mutya han Samar 2025 will be hosted by Sta. Margarita, with Mayor Felix Roma Panganoron, promising another chapter of elegance and tradition.
