Who will make the final cut in Ati-Atihan pageant?

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

The road to 2019 Ati-Atihan festival queen pageant has begun for young women aspirants. Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2019 is the 9th Ati-Atihan pageant organized by Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi). 

PHOTO BOY RYAN ZABAL

So far, 27 aspirants are hoping to make the final cut during the screening of candidates this third week of October.

Pageant director Albert Menez said they are looking for lovely ladies, aged 15 to 24 years  old, never been married, single, born in Aklan or of Aklanon parents, at least 5 feet and 4 inches in height or the aspirant is studying in the province of Aklan. 

Menez said 16 gorgeous aspirants will be selected for the right to compete for the crown and the title. 

Aspirants set to throw their hat into the ring are  Shenna Ellica Retiro, Francesca Beatriz Abalajon, Aicha Claudine Giddey, Richel Nobleza, Saira Mae Cabal, Angielyn Gumboc, Joan Nabiong, Maria Ramona Nieto, Melanie Quillano, Princess Shemiah Filomeno, Psyche Mae Katimpo, Mary Gladys Francisco, Rose Vayne Sadiasa, Mae Antonette Sim, Ma. Sofia Lourdes Olmido and Mayka Hayden Dano.

Other aspirants are Kyla Dela Rosa, Maricel Magbanua, Jamaina Vidal, Juliane Galino, Charina Canal, Maricar Joy Cuadoro, Jhenelyn Nagamos, Rieza Tejada, Shenna Adrien Pador and Abbie Patricio. 

The grand finale will take place on January 11, 2019 at Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center in Kalibo, Aklan. The 2018 winner, Gracel Gilongos, will be in attendance to crown her successor.

The finalists will be judged in festival costume, evening gown, production number, on-stage interview, talent and swimsuit.