Pangelinan crowned 2012 Liberation Queen

Lydee Rose Sablan Pangelinan was in tears as she was joined by parents Eric and Angela and other family members, friends, and sponsors in receiving her crown and sash from 2011 Liberation Queen Joni Castro, Mayor Donald G. Flores, and Liberation Queen Committee chair Tina Concepcion.

Pangelinan bested four other candidates after selling the most number of tickets at 1,100 after exactly 23 days since receiving the tickets during the pinning ceremony last June 8.

“With the help of my family, I’m very happy and excited of what’s ahead of me,” a very surprised Pangelinan told Saipan Tribune in an interview immediately after the coronation.

Pangelinan noted the support of her family and the entire community as the contributing factor for her victory, extending her sincere appreciation to them.

The 18-year-old 2012 Liberation Queen was sponsored by Northern Marianas Business Process LLC, doing business as Konbetsa Café and Walk in Closet. Proprietor Glenna SP Reyes and husband, Sen. Pete Reyes, congratulated Pangelinan on stage.

When asked how she will represent the CNMI as the Liberation Queen, Pangelinan vowed to become visible in the community by attending events, especially those that need her and the 2012 Royal Court’s presence.

This year’s Royal Princess is Maria Angelica Babac Malasarte, who put up a good fight with the help of her parents, Malou and Bong, and sponsors United Filipino Organization and Armatech.

Malasarte, an incoming junior at Saipan Southern High School, related how thankful she is to everyone who supported her.

“I don’t regret anything because I know God has His plans. If I’m the Royal Princess, that’s how it is,” said the towering 15-year-old lass, adding that she is “really proud” of Pangelinan for winning the pageant.

The rest of the 2012 Royal Court are Loria Dee Ada Hocog, 1st Princess; Carmelyn Teregeyo Agulto, 2nd Princess; and Susanne Park, 3rd Princess.

This year’s Royal Court, along with members of the 2011 Royal Court, were serenaded by Leonard Manuel, the young winner of this year’s Marianas Idol singing competition held during the NMC Charter Day last May 4.

The 2011 Royal Court present were 1st runner up Mariah I. Ada and Royal Princess Nizelynn T. Masayos.

The 2011 Liberation Queen, Joni Castro, also took the traditional Farewell Walk, waving to the scores of community members at the festival grounds as she thanked her family and recounted her fondest memories during her reign.

Liberation Queen Committee chair Tina Concepcion said that in the course of the competition she got to know this year’s Royal Court and is thankful and happy to be called their madre.

“They are all beautiful inside and out,” said Concepcion, adding that the girls will all serve as “ambassadors” of the islands.

Monday night’s event was hosted by Rosemond B. Santos and Mikaela Manglona. The Kagman High School JROTC Color Guards did the posting of colors. Pastor Eric Abragan of the Life in the Son Church offered invocation while the award-winning Umang Glee Club sang the national anthems.

The Liberation Queen pageant is part of the 2012 Liberation Day festivities, which will culminate today with the traditional parade and program starting at 10am at the National Office Supply and end at the festival grounds.

By Clarissa V. David
Reporter