12 candidates of Miss Argao 2025 share their advocacies

Whether it's empowering the youth through mental health and literacy programs or promoting initiatives to preserve the environment, the Miss Argao 2025 candidates share a common goal: to strengthen their municipality's identity and heritage.

- By JANUAR JUNIOR AGUJA

The latest slate of Miss Argao candidates was unveiled on September 18 at Argao Unity Plaza during its sashing ceremony, held in anticipation of the Fiesta of Argao on Sept. 29. The coronation will take place a day earlier, on Sept. 28, at the Argao Sports Complex, where 12 hopefuls will vie to succeed last year's titleholder, Ricaella Superable of Barangay Guiwanon.

Here are the candidates' advocacies and why they chose to pursue them:

1. Richelle Ann Ugsimar - Brgy. Bulasa

Quality education

"I believe that building a better future begins with education. I dream of a future where every child experiences quality education that is engaging, fun, and holistic. In my barangay, I have witnessed how the youth bring this vision to life through initiatives like reading, math, dance, and sports. These programs show us that learning isn't limited to books alone. Learning can also be enjoyable, collaborative, and physical. This vision is simple in my heart: if we cooperate, we can strengthen education. Teachers, parents, and community leaders can all be partners in shaping young minds."

2. Kathleen Guill Rodriguez - Brgy. Talo-ot

Empowering youth through mental health

"My brother is diagnosed with ADHD, my mother is diagnosed with schizophrenia, and I myself have had suicidal thoughts and even a suicide attempt. But just like a semicolon, I chose to pause and keep on going. That's why my advocacy is to empower the youth by promoting mental wellness through psychological first-aid training in my barangay. By teaching the youth simple acts of compassion, we can create safe spaces for every youth to feel seen, heard, and empowered, starting in my barangay."

3. Ashley Jole Miñoza - Brgy. Bulasa

Protecting and preserving clear and cold springs