09/06/2026
I don't know where to begin.
This year, I intentionally started screening Lakan Sang Silay candidates four months before the pageant so that we would have more time to train and transform these boys into gentlemen. I never imagined that it would also mean carrying stress for much longer than in previous Lakan Sang Silay pageants.
I had to stretch all my resources—my time, my skills, my tears, and even my pain. It was especially difficult this year because there was only one day of preparation between the Preliminary Competition and the Coronation Night.
It should be noted that I oversee almost everything that happens in the pageant, while also managing my responsibilities at school. This year, the schedule became even crazier. Brigada Eskwela started on the first day of June, which also marked the beginning of the candidates' official public engagements through the Sashing Ceremony and Sta. Cruzan. The Preliminary Competition was held last Saturday, and the Coronation Night took place on Monday—the very same day classes officially opened.
I was torn between responsibilities, limited resources, and a shortage of manpower. But as we performers always say, "The show must go on."
This is why I am deeply grateful to the people who helped me overcome all these challenges.
My heartfelt appreciation goes to the teachers of Guinhalaran Integrated School for putting up with me throughout Brigada Eskwela and beyond, for your patience, understanding, and support. I need not say more—you know why.
To Robin, thank you for always making time to fly home, for sharing your talent in photography, and for supporting my love for pageantry.
To Jhag, Brian, Agi, Itik, and Manok, thank you for being my right and left hands. You were not only an extension of me, but also the shoulders I could lean on whenever things became overwhelming.
To Niro, we share the same karan2 practice, but you always deliver. You are exceptionally talented.
To my boys—Aldred, Bullet, Jojo, and Earnest—thank you for shedding your shyness and embracing this experience at my request. You stepped out of your comfort zones, trusted the process, and allowed yourselves to grow. For that, I am grateful.
To my fellow teachers, thank you for standing beside me for the past eleven years. You answered my call without hesitation, took on your responsibilities with dedication, and rendered the kind of service that only true friends can give. Your loyalty and support have never gone unnoticed.
To my LGBTQ sisters, things have never been smooth, easy, or perfect, but they have always been colorful, memorable, and meaningful whenever you are around to help. Thank you for bringing your energy, creativity, and unwavering support to every endeavor.
To my Lakan Sang Silay 2025 winners—Theo, Roming, Dayniel, Oliver, and Toto Harvey—you fulfilled your roles selflessly. You generously gave your time, shared your experiences, and stood by your Lakan brothers throughout this journey. That is true brotherhood, and I am proud of each one of you.
And to this year's Lakan Sang Silay candidates, I am incredibly proud of the men you have become. Witnessing your transformation firsthand has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. From the first screening to the final walk on stage, I saw growth, confidence, discipline, and character emerge in each of you. My heart swells with joy knowing that this experience has helped shape you into better versions of yourselves.
My heartfelt gratitude also goes to Mayor Joedith Gallego, Councilors Maravilla, Tionco, and Lyndon Bernardo. Your support and presence are clear indications that you appreciate and believe in what we are trying to achieve through this pageant and its advocacy.
To Dom and Councilor Inday Romela, I am in awe of the talent and expertise that you so generously shared. I have never regretted tapping Silaynon talents for a Silaynon project because I have always believed that we are capable of creating something exceptional for our city. Once again, you proved that belief right.
"Silaynons for Silay" has always been the principle I promote whenever I am entrusted with a project, and your contributions continue to show why that vision works.
To Miss Melina and Lotlot, thank you for your kind words, encouragement, and support. Your confidence in what I do inspires me to continue sharing my skills and passion in service of our city.
To everyone involved, whether your contribution was seen on stage or behind the scenes, know that this event would not have been possible without you.
Madamo gid nga salamat sa inyo tanan.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping make Lakan Sang Silay 2026 a success.
-Kenneth
