CEBU, Philippines — One of the facially stunning candidates of Binibining Cebu, Claire says her mission to win the maiden crown is not just for her own sake. It is also for her family and mentors, but most especially for her hometown of Barili.
“I believe this is not only my success but theirs as well. That is what I want in the future hopefully,” begins this five-foot-seven tall charmer who cites her confidence as her strongest suit in the competition.
Claire, the daughter of Barangay Captain George Rosales Rama and teacher Clarissa Tabar, says the best thing about being a part of Binibining Cebu so far is being able to show that she is not just a woman who embodies beauty but that she also has a purpose.
While numerous pre-pageant activities ran smack in the middle of the school year, this Tourism student at the University of San Carlos Talamban Campus says she was able to manage through sheer time management and the fact that she both loves school and pageantry.
Asked about the stereotype of her course being an easy one, the reigning Miss CESAFI reacts: “I believe that’s not true. Each course has its own ways in making people understand.”
Does she think national and local authorities are putting enough effort on promoting responsible tourism? “Yes. Just look at those taglines that we have made: ‘Its more fun in the Philippines’ and ‘I Love Cebu’ in Island Souvenirs. We’re not only promoting the beautiful wonders of our city or country but were also giving them the knowledge about what makes the Phillipines fun and a beautiful place to live in.”
For Claire, whose grandparents are originally from Barili, her hometown is a worthy stopover because “we have the Milky Way Station that serves ice cream made of real cow milk. We have the AC Tilapia Fun Fishing where you can catch and eat seafood. We also have the Sayaw Beach which is owned mostly by the officials and has crystal-clear blue waters and white sands. Lastly, the main tourist attraction is the Mantayupan Falls, the second most popular falls in Cebu South.” (FREEMAN)