Candidates from Bacolod City and Don Salvador Benedicto were named Muses of the Media during the Lin-ay sang Negros 2026 press presentation and talent competition at Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod City on Friday, April 10.
Ysabella Wuthrich of Bacolod City won in the city category, while Jamaicah Bantigue of Don Salvador Benedicto topped the municipal category.
This year’s pageant marks the first time all local government units in Negros Occidental are represented, with contestants from 19 municipalities and 13 cities joining the competition.
During the press presentation, each candidate answered questions from members of the media within 45 seconds.
When asked about her plans if crowned Lin-ay sang Negros, Bantigue emphasized advocacy-driven leadership, saying, “I know it is not just about the crown but what’s behind it as a collective empowerment to everyone, we can make Negros Occidental a compassionate future and a compassionate society for all.”
She also shared her initiative, adding that her “You Matter” program aims to “foster a resolute mindset to every youth through confidence building and personality development training.”
Wuthrich, on the other hand, defined resilience through personal experience, saying, “It is by going through pain and hurt that made me realize what makes us stronger.”
“When you find that strength in loving yourself that’s when you find your power, your resilience and perseverance…we are not here to fit in but we are here to stand out”
The two winners each received a P10,000 prize.
The talent competition followed the press presentation, with performances inspired by the legacies of notable Negrense icons.
Winners of the talent segment will be announced during the grand coronation night.
Other scheduled events include the festival costume competition on April 12, corporate day and preliminary Q&A on April 16, and the grand coronation night on April 17 at the Panaad Park and Stadium.*
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