In focus: Binibining Compostela

CEBU, Philippines — A fourth year Entrepreneurship major at the University of San Carlos, Lyka believes her academic background is an edge in her quest for the Binibining Cebu crown because “in the same way that we plan, produce and promote local products, I promote the beauty of my municipality and the best version of me.”

Lyka, a Miss Medellin 2016 title-holder, remembers wanting to be a lawyer as a child. Being a beauty queen had never crossed her mind then, until a persistent neighbor asked her mom to sign her up for a pageant.

This lady believes she has the goods to be Cebu’s ambassadress. “I know my worth as I am a child of God and I am sculpting myself to be a paradigm. I am deserving because I am not just active in sharing my advocacy, but I am also enthusiastic in promoting the city. I also know that I was beautifully and wonderfully created by God,” points out Lyka, who cherishes the friendships she’s formed among her co-candidates.

Speaking of advocacy, Lyka’s passion has always been to help empower the youth. She has been able to do so as an ambassadress of Youth for a Liveable Cebu, a platform for the youth to find creative solutions towards achieving sustainable development. Being a councilor in her university’s Supreme Student Council has also taught her the true essence of leadership and service.

“I want to inspire the youth to appreciate their God-given body, to walk in the light of truth and glory, to live meaningful lives and to help them craft joyful experiences,” she says.

“I am focused on sculpting myself into a woman the youth would look up to by loving my imperfections, obeying our Father and my parents, and being active and enthusiastic in sharing my advocacies.”

Lyka may not be a true-blue Compostela native, but she agreed to be its candidate with nary a hesitation because she often visits the town for her skin care upkeep, while her go-to “hiding place” are its resorts.

Why is Compostela a paradise for Lyka? “It is rich in eco-tourism, mass tourism and religious tourism. Veiled from the public eye, wondrous Binangon River of Mulao in Compostela is the only river in Cebu that showcases gigantic stone formations that mimic a dinosaur, a ship and a giant footprint. A Shrine of the Virgin Mary stands at the QPark in Compostela. You must never miss the delectable adobo in Singson’s eatery! There are many pleasant surprises for visitors – unspoiled and yet to be discovered by many. Compostela is a beautiful stop off the beaten path, a hidden gem waiting just for you.” (FREEMAN)