Angeles City came alive with glamour and elegance as it hosted the highly anticipated inaugural Reyna De Las Flores pageant on May 20, 2023. Under the administration of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr., the city government organized this enchanting event to celebrate the beauty of Angeleños while promoting the vibrant flower industry that thrives within its borders.
Taking center stage and capturing the hearts of the audience was Janelle Lewis, representing Barangay Cutcut, who was crowned as the first-ever Reyna De Las Flores. Her grace, poise, and undeniable charm made her a deserving recipient of this prestigious title. As a token of her victory, Lewis was awarded a generous cash prize of ₱100,000.
Miss Reyna de las Flores 2023 Janelle Lewis Barangay Cutcut
The pageant showcased the charisma of other remarkable contestants as well. Cassandra Alethea Merritt of Barangay Pandan and Samantha Grace Pinto of Barangay Tabun were honored as the Queen of Flowers 1st and 2nd Runners-up, respectively. Their captivating presence on stage earned them well-deserved recognition and admiration.
In addition to the individual accolades, special awards were presented to highlight exceptional achievements during the event. Merritt, already a standout contestant, also secured the title of Best Filipiniana Gown Design and was rewarded with a cash prize of ₱20,000. Arch Designer Ejay Ramos of Barangay Anunas impressed the judges with an awe-inspiring arch design, earning him the Best Arch award and a cash prize of ₱50,000. The first and second runners-up in the Best Arch category were Barangays Lourdes Sur and Tabun, respectively, demonstrating their creativity and dedication to excellence.
Mayor Pogi Lazatin’s Special Awards were an opportunity to recognize outstanding contributions. Anne Marie Suarez of Barangay Ninoy Aquino was honored as the Queen of Flowers in this category, receiving a cash prize of P8,000. Arch Designer Verano Santos Conese of Barangay Pandan was also acknowledged for his remarkable beauty, receiving P10,000 as a token of appreciation.
Anne Marie Suarez of Barangay Ninoy Aquino
It’s important to note that the spirit of the festival extended beyond the winners. Non-winners received consolation prizes of P10,000 for Reyna De Las Flores and P5,000 for the Best Arch. This gesture highlighted the inclusive and supportive nature of the event, fostering a sense of camaraderie and celebrating the efforts of all participants.
Adding to the grandeur of the occasion was the presence of Joanne Marie Thornley, Mutya Ning Angeles 2022, who graced the famous ‘Santacruzan‘ parade. She exuded elegance and beauty, wearing a stunning gown created by the talented Frederick Policarpio, adding an extra touch of glamour to the event.
Joanne Marie Thornley, Mutya Ning Angeles 2022
Mayor Lazatin emphasized that the Reyna De Las Flores pageant was not only a celebration of beauty but also an avenue for Angeleños to showcase their remarkable skills in designing local garments. Additionally, it aimed to promote the flourishing flower industry that plays a vital role in the city’s economy.
The event, aptly named “Gawang Angeleño,” featured the creations of local designers, who showcased their artistry through the stunning outfits worn by the pageant contestants.
Congratulations to Rommel ‘Poklong’ Guina, the organizer of the successful first Reyna de las Flores!
