CITE lad secures historic triumph, SHS lass reclaims victory for Mr. & Ms. ACC 2023 By Jonalyn Eman

Exhibiting charm, intelligence, and charisma, Nicco Jay Barcelon from the College of Information Technology (CITE) and Senior High School (SHS) Ashley Oribe clinched the coveted titles of Mr. & Ms. ACC 2023 during the coronation night held at Abuyog Mini-Gym on October 26.

Mr. Nicco Jay Barcelon, secured the victory for his department as a first time pageant contender. He also received additional accolades, including the Mr. Congeniality, Mr. Eloquence, Mr. Paymaya, Best in Casual Wear, and Best in Advocacy.

During an interview, he recounted his pageant journey, sharing both the nerve-wracking moments and the triumphant feeling of securing victory. “Well, it was nerve-wracking, but because of the support of those people who believed in me, I was able to stand and win this pageant,” he expressed.

Meanwhile, Ms. Ashley Oribe reclaimed the coveted title of Ms. ACC 2023, marking a triumphant return since their last victory in 2019. Following her win, Ms. Oribe graciously shared her reflections and garnered additional accolades, including Ms. Paymaya, Ms. Eloquence, Best in Production Number, Best in Advocacy, and Best in Uniform.“My experience was great and I just enjoyed the moment,” she said.

Furthermore, Ms. Andrea Amago of the Collge of Arts, Sciences and Education (CASE was hailed as the 1st Runner Up with Mr. John Victor Lopez from the College of Hospitality Management and Entrepreneurship (COHME) who was also awarded as Mr. Photogenic and Best in Talent.

Ms. Janelle Myers from COHME was the 2nd runner-up and garnered the special awards of Ms. Photogenic, Ms. People Choice Award, along with Best in Talent and Best in Philippine Terno as minor awards. Mr. Jerome Dariguez from the Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) also earned the 2nd runner-up title.

Taking the third runners-up were Ms. Norbelita Moreno of the College of CCJE and awarded as Ms. Congeniality and Best in Casual Wear, with Mr. Johnro Herbas from CASE.

In the 4th spot were Ms. Imee Agosto of CITE, bagged the Best in Uniform award, and Mr. Edward Josh Junio from the SHS received awards for Best in Production Number, Best in Uniform, and Best in Philippine Terno.

In an interview, Patricia Moreto, Miss Universe Philippines Leyte First Runner-Up, offered words of encouragement to the contestants and winners as they continue their journey beyond the pageant. “I would like to congratulate our beautiful and impeccable candidates and my message for them is that continue to become ambassadors, not just ambassadors of goodwill but continue to empower others like you are made to be,” she said.

In a post-pageant interview, newly-crowned Mr. ACC and Miss ACC 2023, Mr. Barcelon expressed his commitment to promote and empower ACCians with his advocacy beyond the pageant, while Ms. Oribe offered words of confidence and encouragement to all ACCians.

“I will implement my advocacy to promote and to empower the ACCians,” Mr. Barcelon said.

“Just be confident in yourself that you can do it and nothing is impossible,” Ms. Oribe said.

Furthermore, with the success of the pageant, Mr. Romulo Reas, ACC-SHS faculty and a dedicated alumna of the institution, reflected on the significant strides the college made in commemorating its 44th Founding Anniversary.

“I can still remember those days when I was still a student of ACC. Celebrating this 44th Founding Anniversary brought memories that were installed in my mind before. I’m happy that ACC went beyond its limitation, and I am proud to say that I am part of the strengthened alumni network of this institution,” he expressed.

Meanwhile, Mr. Norly John Codilla, SSC Vice President Internal, expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the importance of strategic planning in ensuring the success of the event.

“First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to ACCians for the successful event. The preparations within our organization, which is the SSC, involved careful planning well in advance of the event. There were numerous preparations within the SSC, but the most crucial aspect was our strategic planning, which aimed to ensure that the event met the necessary standards to be considered successful,” he expressed.

The triumphant return and victories of Mr. & Ms. ACC 2023 showcased the spirit of empowerment, confidence, and excellence within the ACC community as the institution continues to break barriers and celebrate its achievements.

Felicitations to all the candidates!