Mr. Aceyork Sinogba (BSE 4 English) and Ms. Regine Atondo (BEED 3) were crowned Mr. and Ms. Intramurals on September 24, 2024, at the Multi-purpose Hall.

Mr. Wassim Charbel Imperial (BSE 3 English) and Ms. Ericka Jane Martinez (BSE 4 English) were named 1st Runners-Up, while Mr. Jepoy Elopre (BSE 2 English) placed 3rd Runner-Up in the Mr. Intramurals competition.

Special awards were also given to COE representatives: Mr. Jepoy Elopre and Ms. Regine Atondo won Best Sports Attire, and Mr. Wassim Charbel Imperial received Best in Production Number.

In the days following the pageant, we sat down with the newly crowned titleholders, Ms. Regine Atondo, Ms. Intrams 2024, and Mr. Aceyork Sinogba, Mr. Intrams 2024, to explore their thoughts on victory and the responsibilities that come with their titles. Jerome Hipolito conducted the interview, delving into their personal insights and aspirations as they embark on this exciting journey. 

JH: How does it feel to win the title?

RA: Winning the title is really overwhelming because my hard work and efforts paid off.

AS: Winning the title means all the hard work is worth doing. After my triumph, I feel so delighted that I was able to defend the crown for Mr. Intramurals 2024 and to meet the expectations of the people who believe in me.

JH: What was the most challenging part of the competition?

RA: With COE winning last year, there was a lot of pressure and high expectations to win again. However, I saw it as a challenge and motivation rather than something negative.

AS: The Question & Answer portion is often the most daunting. Many fear it because some are just waiting for contestants to make mistakes they can criticize.

JH: What message do you hope to convey through your reign?

RA: I aim to promote inclusivity and unity through my reign. By embracing our differences and striving for our full potential, I hope to inspire others. Winning Ms. Intrams 2024 represents a woman who educates and empowers.

AS: I embody purpose and fearlessness, which I believe led me to win the crown. My goal is to encourage my fellow Stateans to embrace trying and taking risks, as they are essential for rediscovering our potential and pushing beyond our limits. That’s the message I want to share during my reign as Mr. Intramurals 2024.

JH: How do you plan to use your platform to make a positive impact?

 RA: As a future teacher, a student leader, and a public servant, I'm always for the sake of the people. I will always be the epitome of a truly empowered youth who will promote goodness to everyone by joining outreach programs and using social media to encourage people to respect and value everyone.

 AS: Every crown bearer automatically serves as an example of his scope of influence. Winning the title in Mr. Intramurals 2024 is one of the most ideal platforms we have inside the campus to lead initiatives regarding the existing issues across different aspects. Being Mr. Intramurals 2024 is not just a privilege but also a responsibility to make a difference inside and outside the campus by fulfilling the obligations of a title holder. With that, I plan to use this title to initiate providing solutions on issues with the help, approval, and support of the institution's stakeholders.

JH: Who has been your biggest inspiration during this journey?

 RA: My father will always serve as my inspiration because he is my backbone in life. His guidance and encouragement supported me wherever I went and whatever decision I made.

 AS: three people have been my inspiration along this journey. Firstly, my family who have been supporting my studies ever since I stepped on the tertiary level. Secondly, my friends who have cheered on me before, during, and after the competition. Lastly, my teachers who served as my lifetime coaches — teachers who trusted my capabilities, and teachers who often hold a question-and-answer portion inside the classroom. These people are my biggest inspiration along with this amazing journey.

JH: What advice would you give to future contestants?

 RA: To future contestants, always embrace your authenticity and use your strong mind and pure heart to inspire others. Whether you win or lose, the true value of participating lies in revealing that you are more than just others' perceptions.

AS: My advice is to confront challenges head-on. Facing your fears and taking risks can expand your horizons and ignite your fighting spirit. Remember, trying is the first step toward self-discovery. By doing so, you can inspire others to tackle their own challenges, just as I strive to be a champion of purpose who encourages bravery and reinvention.

JH: What’s the first thing you plan to do now that you’ve won?

RA: The first thing I did was express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported me on this journey. I will always carry the true STATEAN spirit within me, ensuring that the values and principles of CBSUA shine wherever I go.

AS: My top priority as the new Mr. Intramurals is to promote diversity by fostering respect and understanding of our differences. I aim to create a healthier environment that is free from discrimination and inequality.

JH: How do you handle the pressure of representing a title?

 RA: Sometimes, we are pressured because we're unprepared. That's why, I've practiced my pasarela and reviewed possible topics and questions several days before the event.

 AS: I believe that winning the title is not an easy job as it gives me both the honor and the responsibility to guide my fellow Stateans. Since I am expected to lead, I think I could handle the pressure by believing more in myself, by trusting my capabilities, and by seeking advice from my mentors.

JH: What causes or projects are you most passionate about promoting?

RA: As a beauty queen and future teacher, I advocate for youth empowerment and children's education. I offer free tutoring in our barangay and participate in various outreach programs.

AS: I am passionate about promoting language inclusivity in pageant competitions and advocating for more effective gender sensitivity projects. In pageants, language is often seen as a measure of intelligence, which I find unreasonable. My goal is to encourage a language-neutral approach so that students can express themselves in the most comfortable way without judgment. Additionally, I believe that improving gender sensitivity programs can help reduce stereotypes and discrimination, both on and off campus.

JH: How has this experience shaped your personal growth?

RA: This experience made me stronger because I took the risk and responsibility to represent our college. It also inspired me to always become the best version of myself and be able to influence others.

 AS: This experience has been an amazing pilgrim because a mere Aceyork Sinogba who failed to represent the College of Education last Intramurals 2023 is now a title holder in this year's intramurals. My journey in this competition shaped my personal growth making me realize that each one of us has our own time and has their phase of winning. This taught me that waiting is always a better step to emerge victorious

Photo by: Dr. Jenelyn Aguelo

Words by: Mr. Jerome Hipolito

Source: CBSUA Calabanga College of Education