MASSKARA Festival Queen 2018 Ella Mercado shared her journey as the reigning MassKara queen of Bacolod City whose crown will be relinquished on October 23, 2019, the pageant night and coronation of the next Ruby MassKara queen.
Her MQ crown was part of her life’s unexpected surprises.
“Being a MassKara Festival Queen, such achievement has humbled me because of the responsibility that goes with my crown and title. It has opened a lot of opportunities for me as I got to know more friends. Some people have invited me to their events as one of the judges who were mostly fashion shows. There were also those who were hesitant to reach out to me. It might be that they also have their own reasons for it. I don’t mind though if they feel that way as there are still numerous people who also love me,” she said.
Mercado was in Grade 11 in Negros Occidental High School when she was crowned MQ queen.
She succeeded 2017 MassKara Queen Fercy Lyn Almaiz.
Mercado garnered several special awards such as Miss Congeniality, Best in Festival Costume, Best in Swimwear and Miss P.H. Care.
Her advice to this year’s ten MQ candidates is to enjoy every moment. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of the MQ pageant.
“This experience will bring about memories that would last a lifetime. They should remember that in every competition, there is always a winner and losers. But losing does not mean it’s already the end of it. They need to keep in mind that everyone has her time to shine and everything happens for a reason. Just don’t forget to offer every feat and defeat to the Lord because anything that we do is made possible with Him,” she said adding that the ladies should, “Just be confident and never look down on themselves as there are a lot of people who believe in their respective talents and capabilities. Always focus and listen to the organizers because they will truly help the candidates improve on what they are capable of doing. The most important thing is to value humility, no matter how greater is their achievement.”
She added that those who will become winners should stay who they are and never to belittle anyone as there are people who are behind their successes.
“The crown that’s on your head will be turned over after a year. What is more important is you remain modest and friendly to people, having a character that will serve as a symbol to others that you are more than a Queen of your city,” she said.
To the MQ ladies, enjoy your journey and good luck to all of you. And don’t forget to smile always, Mercado added.