La Union Empowers PWDs; Hails Mr., Ms. ELYUSPEDtacular 2024
By: Zenaida D. Sellem, GPC-PSWDO | Photos By: Rizalde Buenaventura, Christian Rebultan, Mark Jansen Ballesteros and Rechelle Dulay, PIO | Date: July 18, 2024
To raise public awareness of the rights and abilities of persons with disabilities (PWDs), giving an important chance to promote inclusion, celebrate skills, and push for equal access for PWDs, the Provincial Government of La Union highly supported various activities during the National Disability Rights Week (NDRW) Celebration highlighting the Search for Mr. and Miss ELYUEPEDtacular 2024 on July 18, 2024 at Bauang North Central School Gymnasium, Bauang, La Union.
Gov. Raphaelle Veronica "Rafy" Ortega-David graced the event and reiterated the introduction of more inclusive programs to support PWDs. She encouraged individuals to stay resilient and use their challenges to drive their success. "Walang kahit na anong kapansanan ang makakapigil sa taong pursigido sa buhay. Mahirap pero siguradong kakayanin, lalo na po kung may makakatuwang tayo. Nandito po ang Provincial Government na laging bukas at handang umalalay sa inyo….Ipagpatuloy po natin ang ating determinasyon upang baguhin at tanggalin ang stigma na ‘PWD lang kasi ako’ dapat po ay proud tayong sabihin na ‘PWD ako, at kayang -kaya ko!" Gov. Rafy remarked.
Recognizing their strength and determination to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams despite life challenges, highlighting their talents, skills, and contributions to the community, 16 candidates participated in the inaugural search for Mr. and Ms. ELYUSPEDtacular 2024.
The event concluded with a display of talent and grace, where the following individuals were recognized for their performances, under the male Category, Sonnie P. Mago from Ma. Cristina West, Bangar, La Union, was awarded the title of Mr. ELYUSPEDtacular. He also took home the awards for Best in Talent and Mr. Winsome Smile.
Jacob Sibayan from Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union, was named 1st Runner-Up and Best in Production Number, Best in Formal Attire, Mr. Runway, Mr. Flawless, and Mr. Body Beautiful. Patrick Subala from Dili, Bauang, La Union, earned the 2nd Runner-Up title and the Mr. Charisma award. Jhay Raul G. Rodriguez from Bulala, Bacnotan, was recognized as the 3rd Runner-Up.
In the Female category, Allysa Khate Ochoco from San Juan, La Union was crowned Miss ELYUSPEDtacular 2024. She also received awards for Best in Production Number and Miss Elegance.
Jaem Joezchylle Estilong from San Jose, Caba, La Union, was the 1st Runner-Up, and she was honored with titles such as Miss Runway and Miss Flawless. Angelica M. Fontanilla from Dili, Bauang, La Union, secured the 2nd Runner-Up position and was named Miss Charisma. Mary Anne T. Urbano from Nagsabaran Norte, Balaoan, La Union, achieved the 3rd Runner-Up spot and was also recognized as Miss Sweetheart. Other minor awards were also given to other candidates in recognition of their outstanding performances.
Aside from the search, other activities conducted included the assessment of PWDs needing assistive devices to ensure that the devices were suitable and effective for their needs wherein a total of 32 PWDs participated mostly for casting for custom devices.
There are almost 700 attendees from various municipalities in the event. This symbolizes #LaUnionPROBINSYAnihan for the widespread support and communal effort towards enhancing the quality of life for PWDs in La Union.
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