TARLAC CITY, Tarlac (March 6, 2026) — The province of Tarlac was abuzz with excitement on the evening of March 5, 2026, as it celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Kanlahi Festival, highlighted by the Ginoong Kanlahi pageant held at Maria Cristina Park.
Eighteen candidates from across the province vied for the prestigious title, showcasing their pride, intelligence, and dedication to their communities before a live audience and a distinguished panel of judges.
Hosted by Jasmine Omay, Universal Woman Philippines 2025 and Binibining Kanlahi 2022, alongside model and content creator Silvana Rauch, the evening was a grand spectacle.
The competition was intense, with the field narrowing down to a Top 10 that included Ramos, Bamban II, La Paz, Concepcion II, Camiling, Paniqui, San Clemente, Tarlac City, Concepcion I, and Victoria. Each candidate faced unique questions in a Q&A segment that tested their critical thinking and poise.
Governor Christian Yap addressed the crowd, extending his gratitude to everyone involved. In his speech, he thanked all the organizers and attendees, sponsors, supporters, mayors who are present, and other public servants of the province.
He also praised the candidates, reminding everyone of the evening’s deeper purpose. “Sila pong lahat ay panalo na… Napakagaling sumagot, hindi lang ang kanilang kagwapuhan ang ating ina-appreciate ngayong gabi pero ang kanilang katalinuhan,” Yap said.
The competition grew even tighter as the Top 5 finalists were announced: Paniqui, Ramos, Concepcion I, La Paz, and Camiling. These five gentlemen then faced one final, unified question that would determine the winner:
“As a Ginoong Kanlahi and representative of today’s men, how will you use this title to make a positive impact in your community and inspire others?”
Camiling’s representative, Charlie Cook, delivered a poignant answer that resonated deeply with the audience and the judges.
“A lot of people think that for you to stand out or to be impactful, you must have to do something outstanding. But for me, to be impactful to everyone, you have to have integrity. Integrity means doing something good even when no one is watching. And I always try to do that everyday. I’m true to my words; my yes means yes and my no means no,” he began.
He then wove in Filipino values, stating, “Secondly, is courage or tapang in Tagalog. Pagpapakita ng tapang sa tamang paraan, kailanman hindi ka makakaapak ng kaninuman, anumang tao. Lastly, humility. It’s very important. Humility is always what my mom tells me. Thank you so much.”
After much deliberation by the jury, which included Mister International 2014 Neil Perez, Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2022 Roberta Tamondong, and Miss Universe Philippines President Jonas Gaffud, the results were finally revealed.
In a thrilling climax, the crown was awarded to Camiling, followed by a stellar Top 4:
Ginoong Kanlahi 2026: Camiling’s Charlie Cook
1st Runner-Up: Ramos’ Ishe Venn Quiray
2nd Runner-Up: La Paz’s Jan Chandler Balaga
3rd Runner-Up: Concepcion’s Jade Dizon
4th Runner-Up: Paniqui’s John Rey Ferrer
The Ginoong Kanlahi pageant proved to be a resounding success, not just as a competition, but as a celebration of Tarlac’s culture and the exemplary men who represent its future.
