Teen MassKara hopefuls advocate fighting disinformation, body positivity, mental health

The candidates of the Mr. & Ms. Teen MassKara 2023 answered questions on “fake news,” body shaming, mental health, and their personal advocacy during the press presentation on Sept. 26 at Acacia Hotel in this city.

A total of 12 male and 12 female candidates representing various barangays are vying to become Bacolod City’s next teen ambassadors.

The young hopefuls received questions from the members of the media, social media influencers and parents.

The pre-pageant competition is slated on Oct. 6, 6 p.m. at SM City Bacolod Main Atrium.

The coronation night will be staged at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos on Oct. 15, 7 p.m.

Social media, ‘fake news’

Emmanuel Pescador of Brgy. Tangub reminded teens to always check to sources of news posts online to avoid misinformation.

Mizzy Dalaorao of Brgy. Felisa called for her peers to spreading fake information online. Brgy. Taculing’s Katharine June Mcomish said she now appreciates the importance of tuning to trusted news sites.

To avoid adding to the proliferation of false information online, Clarisse Mole Geriane of Brgy. Estefania said teens “should focus on things where we can learn something instead.”

Brgy. Singcang-Airport’s Jayved Besana said he’d rather reduce his screen time playing mobile games and browsing social media apps. He added that teens should spend quality time with their friends and family offline.

Mental health, bullying

Teary-eyed, Juliana Marie Benitua of Mansilingan shared that someone close to her is going through depression. She also urged teens to break the stigma and seek help.

“It’s time for us to act,” added Mandalagan candidate Juriel Barredo.

Brgy. 22’s Princess Dianne Garcia shared that she used to be bullied because of her weight before. Garcia added that she used the adversity as motivation to stand up for herself.

Teens and adults alike to should promote body positity, said Rency dela Rosa of Sum-ag, when asked about the recent online report of body shaming in a public utility vehicle in the city.

Pursuing personal advocacy

Benz Lawrence Panesa of Bata and John Baren Cruz of Alangilan said that while they are quite busy because of the pageant, they always find time to prioritize their education as high school students. They added that they advocate quality education, too.

Taculing candidate Kyra Denise Hulleza and Henry Parker of Tangub said they still want to pursue personal advocacy in their own time, but will definitely heed the advice of the MMTM management.

Meanwhile, Charles David Hinogin encouraged teens to explore joining pageants and get out of their comfort zones. While an introvert, Hinogin said joining Teen MassKara made him overcome his shyness.

Alangilan’s Shimero Diaz said it doesn’t matter which language a candidate uses in the pageant. He said there’s no need to just strictly speak English as long as you convey your thoughts and ideas.

When asked about his biggest wish, Arron Joshua Reddy of Mansilingan said he wants to “get his late dad back.”

Upcoming competition

“MMTM is quite different from other MassKara events,” said Yosh Adrean Mosquera of Sum-ag.

Alessandra Beatrice Artesano of Taculing said her favorite part of the MMTM experience was during their outreach activities where they played and had fun with less privileged kids in Bacolod.

For Liz Danielle Claveraz of Tangub, there is more to to the pageant. She said she made a lot of friends among the candidates.

Every candidate has something they’re good at, said Sum-ag teen Ma. Antonette Acot. Precious Batiancila of Bata agrees adding that her strength lies on her empathy.

Mansilingan candidates Cielo Marie Omboy and Aaron Austin Cuadra said they are excited of the upcoming pre-pageant and coronation night next month.

Unfortunately, Rochelle Anne Padasas of Granada missed the press presentation due to health concerns.*