BATANGAS, PHILIPPINES—Annually, paving space for the LGBTQIA+ community has been pivotal in the lives of Batangueños in the third legislative district. Setting the stage for the Queen of the Third District of Batangas, formerly known as Miss Gay Third District, the progressive City of Tanauan hosts the much-anticipated event highlighting the beauty, brilliance, and talent of twelve candidates from Agoncillo, Alitagtag, Balete, Cuenca, Laurel, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, San Nicolas, Sta. Teresita, Sto. Tomas, Talisay, and Tanauan.
Through the initiative of former Congresswoman Ma. Theresa “Maitet” Collantes, the valiant efforts made by each LGBTQIA+ president, alongside the rising leadership of Congressman Atty. King Collantes, the substantial abet coming from City Mayor Sonny Perez Collantes, and Tanauan City LGBTQIA+ Adviser Atty. Cristine Collantes pulled off a night filled with pride and purpose, proving that pageantry is more than just winning a crown or a title.
“Sana po ang gabing ito ay maging inspirasyon sa ating lahat na magkaisa at gumalang sa isa’t-isa bilang isang komunidad,” Atty. Cristine Collantes ended her speech with a profound line intended for those who were witnessing the story unfold.
The Third District of Batangas, composed of two cities and municipalities, is the sole district in the whole province to conduct such a project. Within three consecutive years, they have been pioneering the space to advocate the rights of the members of the rainbow community.
From pre-pageant preparations to the night of coronation, the Queen of the Third District of Batangas is steadily supported by the Collantes alongside the organizers, mainly the presidents of the organization headed by Redford Barrientos, making them the heart and soul of the event’s success.
“Sinisigurado po namin na ito ay lagi naming ipagpapatuloy,” Barrientos also acknowledged to the city government officials.
For this year, they presented the star-studded panel of judges headed by Miss Supranational Philippines 2026 Katrina Llegado, Miss International Queen 2023 Top 6 Finalist Lars Pacheco, Manhunt-International Philippines 2015 Don Mcgyver Cochico, King of the World Philippines Culture 2025 Miko Jardin, and King of the World Philippines 2025 1st Runner-Up Godwin Jay Hernandez.
In his message, Mayor Sonny Collantes emphasized that “We are not just here to witness beauty and talent, but also to celebrate, more than anything else, courage, identity, and pride. Events like this remind us that beauty comes in many forms and everyone deserves a space to shine,” openly expressing their unequivocal backing, guaranteeing that such a platform shall be expected every year.
The former representative of the district was the one who started it during her tenure. “Hindi lamang patimpalak ng ganda at talento ang ating ipinagdiriwang, isa rin itong patunay na ang ating distrito ay may puwang at respeto para sa lahat anuman ang kasarian, anuman ang pinagmulan, anuman ang paraan ng pagpapahayag ng sarili,” Congresswoman Ma. Theresa “Maitet” Collantes shared a noteworthy statement in front of the crowd.
She highlighted that it is critical to continue advocating for equality and acceptance, which shall be encompassed in valuing and letting the individuals shine. The former lawmakers also affirmed to aid all of the programs of the LGBTQIA+ community, not just in the City of Tanauan, but also in the whole Third District. Acceptance is not just valued; it is also a space to shine.
Simply, beauty is more than just the physical attributes; it is about the ability to be an inspiration and carry the flag wherever they go.
Out of twelve candidates, Karyl Aduana Borlongan from Cuenca was hailed Queen of Third District Batangas 2025; 1st Runner-Up was clinched by Tanauan pride Yumi Ericka Capacia, followed by 2nd Runner-Up Jech Seria from Alitagtag, 3rd Runner-Up Jewel Bascoguin from Laurel, and 4th Runner-Up Charles Johnson Pascual from Sta. Teresita.
Borlongan, who also garnered a vast number of special awards, left an indelible mark during the final round of the competition with her firm words: “I am a queen who can be a megaphone in order for me to speak up for the voice and let other people know that we should never let technology cost humanity.”
The Queen of Third District Batangas is not about the lights, the music, or anything in between; it proves that when the government takes firm action and commits to providing a safe space for the sector they are championing, victory is possible. The Collantes knew that this was the beginning of forwarding the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, and for Congressman Atty. King Collantes, who bears the voice of his constituents at the House, has a bill on its way.
“Maghahain ang inyong lingkod ng sarili nating version ng Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Expression (SOGIE) Bill,” discussing the bill he prepared weeks before the Grand Coronation Night, which gained applause from people. “Asahan ninyo ang patuloy na suporta, hindi lamang ng opisina na hinahawakan ng inyong lingkod, kung hindi ng aming buong pamilya.”
He proves that the Third District of Batangas truly represents its people, not just on stage, but also in the littlest of corners. He remained true to his words of not just being a congressman by title, but a representative instead.
Tanauan City truly deserves its title of being progressive; more than education, health, sports, tourism, and more, they now serve as a pillar for unity, inclusivity, and equality.
“Our city, with the permission of our congressman, this district is a place where everyone is welcome, a place where equality, respect, and acceptance are not just words but real values we live by,” a vow and a statement from Mayor Collantes that reflects word by word.
As the torch passes, and for the fourth time in a row, it was officially announced that the Municipality of Talisay will host the Queen of the Third District of Batangas in 2026. Through spaces that raise the flag of the LGBTQIA+ community, the road is getting closer, and the members are getting near to winning the fight they have been battling through the years, together, and as one.