ENTERTAINMENT NEWSMiss Mallig fires back at bashers: ‘Your disrespect fuels my burning heart’ in Queen Isabela 2027 race

ISABELA, Philippines — Instead of letting online criticism bring her down, Miss Mallig Jennie Rose Cacas is turning hurtful remarks into motivation as she pursues the Queen Isabela 2027 crown.

“Thank you for every bit of disrespect, criticism, judgment, and bullying. Know that it only fuels my burning heart. With that, may God bless you always po,” Cacas wrote in a Facebook statement on October 18, 2026.

Her message came amid negative comments about her chances in the provincial beauty pageant, drawing reactions from netizens who defended her against online criticism.

The controversy gained attention in the comment section of a post by LUNA Ngayon on October 18, where a netizen identified as Filipina Ong wrote, “Walang kapanapanalo,” expressing doubt about Cacas' chances of winning.

The remark prompted other social media users to call for respect toward the candidates, arguing that beauty pageants should be spaces for healthy competition rather than personal attacks.

LUNA Ngayon also issued a statement condemning online bullying and negativity, emphasizing that Cacas deserves the same respect as the other delegates.

The pageant representative's response has put the spotlight on the pressure contestants face as they compete not only before judges and audiences but also under the scrutiny of social media users.

29 candidates vie for Queen Isabela crown

Cacas is among the 29 candidates introduced during the public presentation of the Queen Isabela 2027 delegates at SM City Cauayan on October 16.

The contestants represent municipalities and cities across the province and will compete for the crown during the upcoming Bambanti Festival 2027.

Other candidates include Lara Melissa Gaffud of Santiago City, Xye Louiggie of Cabatuan, Johanna Coloma of Delfin Albano, and Cherry Garlijo of Cauayan City.

The Queen Isabela pageant is among the anticipated highlights of the Bambanti Festival, Isabela's annual celebration honoring farmers and the province's agricultural heritage.

The word “bambanti,” which means scarecrow in Ilocano, symbolizes the role of farmers in protecting their crops and sustaining agricultural communities.

Scheduled for January 18 to 23, 2027, the festival will feature cultural presentations, agricultural exhibits, local products, and other activities showcasing Isabela's traditions and identity.

Beyond the competition for the crown, Cacas' experience highlights the importance of treating pageant candidates with dignity, regardless of their chances of winning.

As she continues her journey representing Mallig, her message remains clear: criticism may come with the spotlight, but it does not have to determine a contestant's confidence or resolve.