Long before the rhythmic drums, elaborate gowns, and glittering crowns, the Sinulog Festival was born from a simple dance of devotion. The prestigious Search for the Sinulog Festival Queen finds its deep inspiration in early historical accounts connected to the Santo Niño.
Roots in History: From Hara Humamay to Modern Queens
This tradition traces back to stories of Hara Humamay, who after baptism became Queen Juana. Historians from the Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) recount that in 1521, she danced with pure joy upon receiving the image of the Holy Child. This foundational act of movement and thanksgiving is seen as the seed from which the grand Sinulog festival eventually grew.
Today, the festival queen competition has transformed into a powerful visual narrative. It retells this deep faith and rich history through breathtaking costume design, precise choreography, and compelling stage performance. Every January, Cebu turns its eyes to modern-day queens who embody not just beauty, but also the living cultural memory of the people.
A Look Back at Six Years of Sinulog Royalty
Here is a retrospective of the remarkable women who have been crowned Sinulog Festival Queen over the past six years, each leaving a unique mark on the celebration.
2026: Stefanie Przewodnik (Municipality of Asturias)
Model and beauty queen Stefanie Przewodnik's winning costume was a magnificent expression of sacred royalty. Her ensemble in white, crimson, and gold was lavishly decorated with pearls, crystals, and gemstone embroidery. A defining feature was the Sacred Heart-inspired bodice, firmly anchoring the entire look in a theme of deep faith.
2025: Sofi Maxim Margareta Grenmo (Lapu-Lapu City)
A seasoned beauty queen, Grenmo captivated the judges and audience to win among 22 candidates. Her coronation took place at the Cebu City Sports Center. Her gold-toned gown featured a dramatic, voluminous silhouette complemented by an ornate backpiece inspired by religious iconography. This fusion of pageantry and symbolism made her one of the most visually memorable winners in recent history.
2024: Mariel Bogert (Canlaon City, Negros Oriental)
Representing Tribu Kang-laon, Bogert was a major award winner, securing Best in Festival Costume. The gown, designed by Richardson “Sonny” Nemenzo Apayla, featured striking violet and blue hues with structured panels. A sculptural white ruff collar added a distinct touch, echoing influences from the Spanish colonial era and balancing history with theatrical flair.
2023: Kiara Liane Wellington (Talisay City)
Wellington graced the stage in a rose-pink and antique gold costume marked by intricate scrollwork and layered detailing. A soft pink veil completed her coronation look. The Filipina-British titleholder also had an impressive haul, earning 12 corporate awards and two major special awards during her reign.
2022: Sunshine Malingin (Lapu-Lapu City)
Crowned in a period of recovery following Typhoon Odette and the pandemic, Malingin's victory resonated deeply with Cebuanos. Her all-white costume became a powerful symbol of hope and renewal. Adorned with silver embroidery and metallic appliqués, and paired with a towering headdress, she also won Best in Production Number, Best in Runway, and Best in Costume.
2021: Dixie Lee Ray Oca (Barangay Sapangdaku)
Oca made history by being crowned during the first-ever fully livestreamed Sinulog Festival Queen competition, held without a live audience due to pandemic restrictions. Her elegant white ball gown was adorned with gold appliqués arranged in sunburst and medallion patterns, drawing inspiration from religious imagery. Her coronation served as a crucial moment of cultural continuity during a time of great uncertainty.
More Than a Pageant: A Legacy of Culture
The evolution of the Sinulog Festival Queen competition from 2021 to 2026 demonstrates its enduring role as a cornerstone of Cebu's cultural identity. It is far more than a beauty pageant; it is a dynamic, living art form that honors history, celebrates devout faith, and showcases extraordinary creativity. Each queen, through her costume and performance, adds a new chapter to the ongoing story of the Sinulog, ensuring its traditions vibrantly continue for future generations.
