Pageant rookie from Bontoc captures crown, becomes Ginoong Cordillera 2026

ENTERTAINMENT

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – With no prior local or regional pageantry experience, Marco Rodin Josh R. Bolwa of Bontoc, Mountain Province, proved that being a rookie was no hindrance as he outshone eight other contestants to capture the title of Ginoong Cordillera 2026.

The 26-year-old charmer impressed the judges with his charisma, confidence, and stage presence, earning him the crown during the glittering grand coronation night held at the La Trinidad Municipal Gymnasium on October 31, 2026.

Bolwa did not go home with just the coveted title. He also bagged the Darling of the Press award and the special awards for Best in Bahag Wear, Best in Swimwear, and Best in Formal Wear.

The son of Maylyn and Lester Bolwa hails from Sitio Loc-ong, Poblacion, Bontoc, and currently resides in Mines View Park, Baguio City. He holds a degree in Medical Technology.

For Bolwa, joining the regional pageant was not just about capturing the crown but also an opportunity to better understand the town he represented while discovering more about himself, he told GURU Press Cordillera.

As a pageant rookie, rigorous training became an important part of his preparation, particularly in practicing his question-and-answer skills, pasarela, and stage presence.

His journey was far from easy as he also had to battle his own self-doubt. He, however, overcame his hesitations through positive self-talk and by listening to the guidance and wisdom of his handlers.

A winning answer

His preparation paid off when he faced the judges during the question-and-answer portion.

He was asked: “What are your thoughts on uploading photos of your face to AI apps like the recent '80s photo trend? Is it just harmless fun, or are we overlooking potential privacy and security risks?”

In his answer, Bolwa acknowledged the risks of uploading personal photos to AI applications, reminding users to read the user agreement first to understand the possible consequences.

“I think you can upload your photo on AI as long as you read the user agreement before you upload your photos 'cause when you read the user agreement, you will learn the risk, you're willing to take your risk, you're willing to post your photos into an AI that can maybe, in the future, do harm to you. But I think, as of now, many are using it without even thinking. They are just using it for the trend, for the clout, and maybe they just wanna feel something new, I guess. But I think, uploading it to the AI have risk and if you're willing to take your risk, you will do it yourself. But for me, you can do anything you want, but read the user agreement,” he said.

Bolwa dedicated his victory to his hometown, family, and friends for their endless support. He also expressed gratitude to his handlers, especially Renren Sabiano, for believing in his potential.

Beauty with a purpose

Beyond his pageant achievements, Bolwa champions fitness as a lifelong commitment to health, mental strength, and self-love rather than a temporary pursuit of society's beauty standards.

Through his advocacy, he hopes to “inspire young people to embrace healthy habits, respecting their bodies, and prioritizing their overall well-being.”

“Instead of exercising out of insecurity, we should exercise out of self-love and gratitude for what our bodies can do. A strong and healthy body should be a source of inspiration, not a reason to judge others. True fitness is not about changing our bodies to meet society's [standard], but about caring for ourselves so we can live better, feel stronger, and inspire others,” he stated.

Meet the other winners

Jerick C. Espejo of Tadian, Mountain Province, emerged as Ginoong Cordillera 2026 Kultura and ICON Grand Winner, while Elquiko Lonogan K. Quelino of La Trinidad, Benguet, was named Ginoong Cordillera 2026 Turismo.

Sam M. Javier of Tuba, Benguet, finished as first runner-up and also took home the Best in Creative Costume award, while Andrei M. Valencia of Baguio City placed second runner-up.

Generoso T. Glorioso of Mankayan, Benguet, received the Ginoong Cordillera 2026 Friendship and ICON award, while Kalinga's Kenneth A. Odlus and Benguet's John Paul E. Domingo were named ICON first runner-up and ICON second runner-up, respectively.

Another contestant was Jade O. Galao-ey of Besao, Mountain Province.

Johnny L. Gayyed Jr. of Conner, Apayao, was initially part of the pre-pageant activities but later withdrew to prioritize his academic responsibilities.