A mental health advocate from Don Salvador Benedicto was crowned Lin-ay sang Negros 2026 during the jampacked coronation night at the Panaad Stadium on Friday , April 17.
Jamaicah Bantigue bested 31 other candidates from across Negros Occidental in this year’s pageant, which marked its 30th year with all 32 cities and municipalities represented for the first time.
Bantigue emphasized her advocacy during the final question and answer portion, citing the need to strengthen mental health services and address the limited number of facilities in the province.
She will serve as the official representative of Negros Occidental to the Miss World Philippines pageant.
The winner received P80,000 cash, a full one-year scholarship, P200,000 financial assistance for her advocacy, a tech-voc scholarship worth P100,000, accessories from Munar, an overnight penthouse stay at Roy’s Hotel, monthly stipends for books and uniforms, among others.
Johana Marie Oyog of Kabankalan was named 1st runner-up, receiving P50,000 cash, a 75 percent scholarship, P200,000 advocacy support, and allowances, while Kimberly Kate Payumo of Talisay placed 2nd runner-up with P40,000 cash, a 50 percent scholarship, and similar support benefits.
Elisha Krizzle Escultura of Cauayan was awarded 3rd runner-up with P20,000 cash, and Glazel Bayona of Calatrava placed 4th runner-up with P15,000 cash.
The coronation night, which ran for about four hours, featured various segments including swimwear and evening gown competitions, along with a serenade by actor Jericho Rosales prior to the announcement of winners.
Serving as judges were Miss World Philippines 2026 Asia Rose Simpson, Miss Philippines–Earth 2025 Joy Barcoma, Mister Pilipinas Worldwide Vice President Kenneth Cabuncal, Munar Jewelry Creative Director Christopher Munar, World Vision Philippines Advocacy Officer Caroline Joy Veronilla, Miss World Philippines National Director Arnold Vegafria, and former Lin-ay sang Negros 1996 Maita Salde Enteria.
In his message, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said the province remains committed to supporting the advocacies of the winners, adding that the pageant is “a stage where advocacies are born and leaders are shaped.”
He also said the participation of all 32 local government units reflects unity and pride across Negros Occidental.*
[sibwp_form id=1]