‘BE HUMBLE IF YOU WIN. IF YOU LOSE, take it as a challenge’:MIO Balagso gives heartfelt advice to Gammelayan 2026 candidates

Pinukpuk – Municipal Information Officer Hilaria Balagso reminded the young women competing for the coveted title of “Gammelayan di Pinukpuk” that pageantry is not only about winning crowns, but also about learning humility, discipline, and personal growth beyond the stage.

Balagso delivered her message during the pre-pageant held Tuesday, May 19, at the Municipal Gymnasium in Taga, where candidates representing the 23 barangays showcased their wit, talent, beauty, and cultural pride.

In her speech, Balagso emphasized that every competition naturally comes with both victory and defeat, but what truly matters is how contestants respond after the results are announced.

Balagso encouraged the candidates to remain humble in victory and to view defeat not as failure, but as motivation to improve and prepare for greater opportunities in the future.

“I’m very sure the judges are having a difficult time deciding who will win. Ngem gagangay ti competition, ada maabak, ada magabak. But for the winner, please be humble. Didjay haan man mangabak, take it as a challenge — adu pay laeng ti aldaw yo,” Balagso said.

The municipal information officer further reminded the candidates that their journey does not end with this year’s competition, stressing that more opportunities await them in the years ahead.

“Today, what you are competing in is Gammelayan 2026. You will still have Gammelayan 2027, 2028, and so forth. So don’t be discouraged; take it as a challenge,” she added.

Through the leadership of Mayor Jimmy Dasayon and Vice-Mayor Shirlynne Dasayon-Alunday, the Search for Gammelayan di Pinukpuk 2026 forms part of the municipality’s first-ever Gimpong Festival, which highlights culture, talent, and unity among young iPinukpuk women.