On February 23, 2011, 20 of General Santos City’s most charming men and most beautiful ladies competed to win the title of Lakan at Lakambini ng Gen San 2011. After the grueling closed door casual interview with the candidates, I was excited to see them on stage at the Atrium of the Gaisano Mall of Gen San.

The program was brief and enjoyable. It opened with the candidates donned in their black and white outfits, introducing themselves to the eager audience. After which, the candidates wowed the crowd with their beautiful bodies as they modeled in their swimsuit attire. They also ramped on stage wearing their casual attires sponsored by Freego Jeans. They were also given the chance to showcase their wits and communication skills as they bantered with the pageant hosts.

The candidates’ had their last chance to wow the crowd and the distinguished board of judges as they wore elegant Filipiana formal wear by Johnny Abad. After which, the top three Lakan candidates and Lakambini candidates were announced. The top three males were Jomie Faulda, Francis Lagudas, and Richard Nuñez, while the top three females were Dallen Baldonado, Gensan Kabatingan, and Joanna Tan.

The six contender’s intelligence and composure were put to the test as they were all given a limited time to answer the same question. All six exhibited grace and exuded beauty as they wowed the crowd with their answers.

The pageant ended with the announcement of the night’s winners who will be two of General Santos City’s symbol of beauty and grace for 2011. Declared as second runner-up were Francis and Gensan. First runner-up went to Jomie and Dallen. And winning the title and prestige of Lakan at Lakambini ng Gen San 2011 were Richard and Joanna.

After getting to know the candidates on and off stage, seeing them show their best and give their all, I was like a proud mother when the winners were finally crowned. They all deserved to win. Like the gentlemen and beauties who held the crown before them, I’m sure the six titlists will make General Santos City proud.

And kudos to the other candidates who did well. Special mention to those who caught my eye and have great potential to win next time around: Mark Viajedor, Rahj Jose, Gian Cortes, and Keeia Espino.

Congratulations to the head organizer, Orman Manansala of Project O! Consultants and to Direk Dino Veloso and choreographer Mark dela Cruz for a well produced and relevant pageant! 🙂

Thank you to SOUL Lifestyle for my clothes, Envy Me Salon for my hair and make up, and Impressions for my necklace!