Report by Mary Ruth Orendain | Photos by Angel Chogyomon
College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) representatives, Ayeesa Santos and Rafael Ross Galamay, settled at Top 6 in the Mr. and Ms. TSU 2024 Coronation Night held at the TSU Gymnasium on October 18, bringing home three major awards and a staggering 18 sponsor recognitions.
Mr. CASS, Rafael Ross Galamay, bagged the Best in Theme Wear, Mr. Congeniality, and Best in Production Number with 9 sponsor awards, whereas Ms. CASS, Ayeesa Santos, won 9 sponsor recognition.
Amid the pressure of midterm exams and rigorous trainings, both contestants proved their remarkable dedication.
“Preparing for the pageant was tough, but it was also a really rewarding experience. We had training for our pasarela and Q&A, plus we got to know our co-candidates better during rehearsals,” Ayeesa shared in an interview.
“Even though we didn’t make it to the top 5, I honestly feel happy and fulfilled. We gave it our all throughout the entire journey, from the intense trainings to balancing everything with our studies. The experience itself was incredibly rewarding, and knowing that we put in our best effort is what matters most to me. I’m proud of what we accomplished, and it was a beautiful opportunity to represent ourselves and our values on that stage,” she added.
Facing both the rigors of the midterm exams and training sessions for the pageant proved to be a monumental challenge for the both of them as third-year psychology students
“It was challenging and hard for me and Ayeesa as a 3rd-year psychology student…We were having trainings right after every Midterm Examination. We had to review and prepare ourselves with QNA since we are focused on that as well. Everything was fulfilling for both of us,” Galamay shared.
With the shared experience, one fueled by the collective effort and support of CASS, the two expressed their deepest gratitude to everyone.
“This journey wasn’t just about me—it was about all of us, and I couldn’t have done it without each and every one of you,” Santos shared.
“Your support was our backbone of our purpose and dedication for our beloved college. I am really thankful for all the people for giving us the chance to represent CASS on Mr and Ms TSU stage. This is not the end, we are just getting started. We can’t wait for our next journey, and may we all be committed to excellence as what we as TSUians are. Indeed, CASS mas pinalaCASS!” Galamay expressed.
Meanwhile, CASS-SC Governor, Alexander Ong also voiced his end regarding the outcome, as well as the unceasing efforts set by the college’s candidates.
“I was really heartbroken no’ng hindi napabilang ‘yong both candidates natin for Mr. & Ms. TSU semifinals because I’ve personally seen their dedication and hard work ng dalawang nating candidates sa preparation, and kung paano talaga nila inilaban ang CASS sa university stage,” Gov. Ong stated
He also addressed the tabulation outcome, affirming that after the thorough review with regards to prevent last year’s commotion, no anomalies were found on the rankings. However, Gov. Ong acknowledged that, in the end, the results are subjective and ultimately lie in the hands of the judges.
“I can see so much potential sa kanilang dalawa sa regional and national–na kaya nilang mag thrive d’on sa mga stage na ‘yon kaya nasasayangan ako on my part na hindi nila napakita kung ano ba talaga yung kaya nilang ibuga[…]’yong mga hardwork and sacrifices na they had made for the preparation sa competition cannot be understated,” he added.
The reigning Mr. and Ms. CASS’ journey on stage has been nothing short of inspiring. Their passion showed what true dedication in representing the college entailes, despite the pressures of academic and pageant demands. Such commitment is a hallmark exemplifying the idea that excellence isn't merely about accolades but about the courage to step into the spotlight and embrace every challenge along the way.
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