Aklan’s Pretty Girls

by CHRISTY ANN NAVARRA

Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2011 Caren Retamar Braun (center) with first runner-up Mae Ann Manipud and second runner-up Charmaine Ling Chua after their coronation during the coronation pageant held at Augusto B. Legaspi Sports Complex, Kalibo on Wednesday evening, January 5. )

Caren Retamar Braun, 17 of New Washington, Aklan was crowned Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2011 in the evening, January 5 during the pageant and coronation night held at Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports Complex, Kalibo, Aklan. Mae Ann Mariano Manipud of Nabas, Aklan is the first runner-up, and Charmaine Ling Palomata Chua of Kalibo, second runner-up.

There are 12 radiant, pretty, and stunning Aklanon ladies who competed in the beauty contest organized by Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (KASAFI) headed by Mr. Albert Acevedo Meñez and the local government of Kalibo, led by Kalibo Mayor William S. Lachica.

Braun is bestowed the title "Ambassadress of Goodwill and Tourism". Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez with Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo, Hon. William S. Lachica and Hon. Madeline Regalado crowned Ms. Braun "Mutya It Kalibo Ati-Atihan" 2011. She also won major awards: Best in Swimwear, and Best in Talent. Moreover, she also got corporate awards for Miss Maxi Peel and Miss Ever Belena.

Ms. Manipud of Nabas, 1st runner-up, is awarded Best in Long Gown; while Ms. Chua of Kalibo, 2nd runner-up, won the corporate awards for Miss Ponds, Miss Skin White, Miss Personality and Miss Globe. Other winners of special awards are Janine Magbiro Ilio – Best in Production Number, Frendisol Catherine Villanueva Yco – Miss Photogenic, Sheen Mae Bagnate Zafra – Miss Friendship, and Jecca Rosales Tenajas – Best in Interview.

Packages of prizes to Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2011 include P30,000 cash, overnight accommodations at Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa, Aklan Sampaguita Gardens and La Esperanza Hotel, gift certificate from Mandala Spa Boracay, round trip tickets from Cebu Pacific Air, gift items from Century Pacific, Cheryl Macahilas-Hartley (Mark and Spencer) products, and cellphone kit from Kok’s Kalibo.

Governor Marquez in his speech commended Mr. Albert Meñez of KASAFI and all the people behind the event who gave all out support to the Province of Aklan. Marquez also lauded Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan candidates, their parents, and supporters for their sacrifices and efforts in promoting "Amazing Aklan".

GMA Kapuso Actor Wendell Ramos serenaded the 12 finalists on stage. Ms. Gaynor Calizo and Mr. Giljan Torres hosted the pageant. /MP