CASS to Conquer the Universe: Arachnids Behind the Scenes of MUPH Iligan 2024

by Eula Grace Logarta and Jazel Ann Maghilum


Miss Universe Philippines - Iligan (MUPH Iligan) recently opened its doors to young women hoping for a chance to walk the big stage. Among the fifteen (15) successful hopefuls, three candidates hail from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS): BA Sociology’s Jelie Sajulla Malmis, BA English Language Study’s Juliana Acut Fresado, and BS Philosophy’s Mary Angel Kristine Baculio. The competition is now at its peak as these ladies are geared up and ready to face the Universe.


Jelie Sajulla Malmis’ love for pageantry first sparked when she was chosen to represent the college in the university’s annual Mx. MSU-IIT Influencer 2023, where she was crowned Mx. IIT Goodwill. However, that spark was almost cut short when her most recent competition did not yield favorable results, to the point where she considered quitting competitions altogether.


When the opportunity to join MUPH Iligan came, Malmis jumped at the chance when she found out that they were looking for a spokesperson—someone who truly knew what they were fighting for. Reflecting on her decision to join, she shared, “Akong i-showcase ang akoang advocacy and platform aron maka-gain siya ug wider reach bitaw instead of just limiting myself.” Malmis showcased her potential in the preliminary rounds, making it to the top three in the closed-door interview segment, a testament to her dedication and preparation.


Juliana Acut Fresado was a product of a rather difficult childhood. The hardships and the kindness she experienced while growing up helped mold her into the woman she is today: intelligent and beautiful. These qualities were not lost on the people around her, and they encouraged her to nurture this potential. Although hesitant, Fresado chose to believe in what she was and could become, and accepted the challenge of joining MUPH Iligan.


“I was hesitant to try because I know my limitations and I still have more to experience,” she admitted. “However, those challenging times taught me so much about the value of tenacity and living a purposeful life.” Fresado’s efforts were recognized in the preliminary rounds, where she earned top-three placements in the closed-door interview, cultural night, and swimsuit preliminaries, demonstrating her versatility and poise.

Mary Angel Kristine Baculio, a first-timer in big pageants with no crowns and zero experience, pulled through with her wit and confidence during the screening. With a fire in her heart, she believes that pageants are not just a showcase of beauty and performance but rather calls to be the voice for the unheard. Amidst all the struggles she faced, her friends and family stood behind her—a support team no one can compete with.


However, unruly comments that invalidate her efforts, like " sayang" and "gwapa unta pero gamay," always come out of nowhere. These remarks became hurdles when she wanted to enter pageantries like Mx. IIT before. For so long, that mountain of fear had been stopping her from the climb, but enough was enough! As the flame cascades into flickering dreams, on the day of the call for contestants, she knew deep down, "This is the right time to try."


True to the Miss Universe tradition of producing women who are role models in society, these three candidates all have causes they support with all their hearts. Malmis advocates for countering disinformation and voters’ empowerment, emphasizing the importance of fact-checking the information consumed by the public.


Fresado, on the other hand, firmly believes in promoting responsible parenting, insisting that teaching parental accountability goes beyond contraceptives—it also involves strengthening the bond between couples, emphasizing commitments, and raising children with adequate love and care.


More than just a spectacle, Baculio has high hopes for her advocacy, which she named "Odds are Keys to an Evolving Youth" (OKEY). She hopes for inclusivity in any platform young people choose, envisioning acceptance for those with special needs who want to engage in the arts, music, or any community where they can foster their skills. Though the word "odd" may carry negative connotations for some, the idea is that there are no less chances for individuals who are different.


"Look at me, the odds may have pointed out my height and experience, but these qualities made the odds on [in] my favor." Baculio aptly said, "Anyone can if they are given the chance to."


Pageants are not all glitz and glamour; they come with a responsibility to make a difference. Coming from the College of Arts and Social Sciences, these women carry the spirit that will become their strength as they weave their webs in society. Embodying the essence of "Kakambal ng Husay at Talino ay Puso at Konsensya," as they embark on their journeys beyond the runway. Through the advocacies and experiences they shared, these women showed that while they may have different backgrounds, beliefs, and aspirations, they all have one goal: a better Universe for the future.


On September 27, these mighty Arachnids will bring their efforts to life and rise to the challenge of wearing the crown! Join them at the MSU-IIT gymnasium at 7 PM for an exciting night as we follow their journey and cheer them on in their quest for the crown—don't miss the chance to witness history in the making, Arachnids!