Who do Rampa Cebu 2026’s young titlists look up to?

Zhanica Niña Sabinay remembered her late mother when she was asked during the final Q&A which challenge had shaped her into the person she is today, a response that helped earn her the Teen Grand Winner title at Rampa Cebu 2026 on May 9 at the Tisa Elementary School Gymnasium.

- By JANUAR JUNIOR AGUJA

“I responded that it was when our family lost our mom two years ago,” she said during a post-coronation press conference. The morning after her victory, she visited her mom’s grave to show her the crown.

For Tricia Jane Angcon, the Kids Grand Winner of this year’s Rampa Cebu, she was asked what important value she would impart to her peers. She recalled her response: “I answered respect because it’s the foundation of love, peace and unity.”

Teen runner-up Mary Kristal Angilyn Valmores, who won the Heritage title, was asked to send a message to fellow teenagers going through difficult times.

“My answer was, don’t be afraid to make mistakes because it’s part of life and how we face reality,” she said. “Instead of thinking negative thoughts, we should learn from the hardships we face.”

Meanwhile, Maria Ada Andrea Yulo, the Kids Tourism winner, was asked how children like her could make the world a happier place.

“I responded that I believe kids like me can make the world a happier place by being kind and respectful. You don’t need to do big things. Just small acts of care and love can already make a big difference in someone’s life,” she said.

Aside from her main title, Sabinay, 16, from Cogon Pardo, Cebu City, also won Best in Gown and Best in Resort Wear. She joined Rampa Cebu because she wanted to serve as an example for her peers to feel empowered. She said, “I want to inspire other girls to believe in themselves, just as I believed in myself.”