By Cyrus A. Natividad

Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2016 Vanessa Ann Ka’ihilane Caro during her visit to the Provincial Capitol.

It is time for Vanessa Ann Ka’ihilani Caro (CPU BS BAFM 2017) to represent the Province of Iloilo in the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant-Philippines on April 30, 2022. Vanessa who was crowned Miss Iloilo Dinagyang in 2016 is billed to represent Iloilo in national beauty pageants such as Bb. Pilipinas, Miss World and Miss Universe- Philippines.

Vanessa dedicated her title Miss Dinagyang 2016 to some outreach projects like Bantay Bata 163. She provided gift packs and other necessities to children one year old to 17 years old- diagnosed with cardiovascular heart disease at the West Visayas Medical Center. She organized a Tahitian Fitness Dance Workshop which provided high cardio and aerobic workout. The proceeds were also directed to Bantay Bata 163.

“Being a pageant titleholder is not just being an eminent person during events, it does not just revolve around glitz and glamour, but it revolves around the duties one has to fulfil,” Vanessa said. Vanessa also stressed that “inner beauty is more important than outer beauty. I never focused on outer appearance because my parents instilled in me that inner beauty conquers all.”

Strong and independent, Vanessa tells other women “We should not be afraid to fight for things we know we can accomplish. We have one life, therefore we have to live it well. If you have a dream, strive to reach it, achieve it, and look even further past what you think you can do. Be kind, humble and stay grateful. You can accomplish all of these with strong faith and trust in the Lord.”

In her visit to Provincial Capitol last March 7, 2022, she said in her Facebook post, “A fulfilling morning was spent yesterday as I finally had the chance to reconnect with some of the most inspirational and hardworking leaders of Iloilo Province, Governor Arthur Defensor alongside Tourism Officer Bombette Marin and the MUPH Iloilo Province Accredited Partner, Sir PJ Arañador. Iloilo comprises 42 vibrant municipalities and one component city, all grouped into five congressional districts.”

“The Governor and I had the chance to talk about upcoming projects, as he highlighted the importance of our textile and weaving industry.”

“It is so surreal to know that I am representing our prosperous province, and it is an honor that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Padayon kita, mga Ilonggo!”