by Robbie Pangilinan

Beautiful Tacloban lass Chelsea Fernandez was crowned Reyna ng Aliwan 2018 at the annual Aliwan Fiesta that showcases Philippine traditional festivals.

The judges admitted that Chelsea caught their eye even at Day 1. She also honored Tacloban by bringing home the Best Float Award and the Best in Ritual Dance for the Tribu Buraburon of Burauen, Leyte.

Chelsea’s float featured Tacloban’s Sangyaw Festival and Tacloban City Mayor Cristina G. Romualdez is very proud of her.

“Congratulations, Chelsea. You did not only bring the award for yourself, but by representing Tacloban, you won it for everybody,” said the mayor.

First Runner-Up in Reyna ng Aliwan is Chanel Mistyca Villamor Corpuz representing Abrenian Kawayan Festival, and Second Runners-Up are Shaila Mae Del Mar Rebortera (Sinulog Festival); Ashanti Shaine L. Ervas (Niyogyugan Festival) and Lady Justerinnie G. Santos (Singkaban Festival). 

Second place in the Float Competition is Sinilatan Float and third place is Kapasiti Float.

Mayor Romualdez hopes that more Taclobanons like Chelsea will go out and show the whole country their beauty and talent.