TARLAC CITY, Tarlac (March 6, 2026) — In a dazzling display of charm, wit, and Tarlaqueño pride, Joshua Charlie Zamora Cook, representing the municipality of Camiling, was crowned Ginoong Kanlahi 2026.
The coronation night, held on the evening of March 5, 2026, at Maria Cristina Park, marked the 10th anniversary of the province’s Kanlahi Festival.
Cook’s journey to the crown was nothing short of dominant. He swept the major pre-pageant special awards, being named Arraboo King, Ginoong Kart City, Ginoong La Maja Rica Hotel, and Ginoong Goatlove Skincare.
He continued his winning streak during the finals, taking home the awards for Best in Warrior Costume, Best in Beach Wear, and Best in Formal Wear.
However, it was his articulate and heartfelt response during the final question that truly sealed the deal for the 26-year-old standout. Asked, “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?”
Cook delivered a poignant answer that resonated deeply with the audience and the powerhouse panel of judges, which included Neil Perez, Roberta Tamondong, and Jonas Gaffud.
“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.”
He was followed by a stellar roster of runners-up:
1st Runner-Up: Ramos – Ishe Venn Quiray
2nd Runner-Up: La Paz – Jan Chandler Balaga
3rd Runner-Up: Concepcion – Jade Dizon
4th Runner-Up: Paniqui – John Rey Ferrer
His victory was met with an outpouring of support from his municipality and the entire province. In a heartfelt Facebook post, Cook expressed his gratitude, dedicating his win to his family, supporters, and the people of Camiling.
“Ang tagumpay para sa Minamahal kong Camiling, Tarlac. Lubos at walang humpay na pasasalamat sa inyong lahat na sumuporta at nagmamahal sa akin. Ang tagumpay ko ay tagumpay ninyo. Sobrang saya ko po ngayon na nakamit natin ang titulong Ginoong Kanlahi 2026, ang aking ngiti ay abot hanggang langit,” he shared.
Camiling Mayor Joyce Agustin also took to social media to celebrate the historic win, expressing pride and gratitude for Cook’s achievement.
“Congratulations Charlie Zamora Cook, Ginoong Camiling for winning the Ginoong Kanlahi 2026 Crown. We, the people of Camiling are proud of you!!!” Agustin wrote.
Tarlac Governor Christian Yap also took to social media to congratulate the new king. In his post, he celebrated Cook’s victory and the spirit of the event.
“Ipinagmamalaki at taus-puso kong binabati ang lahat ng kalahok ng Ginoong Kanlahi 2026. Ginoong Kanlahi 2026 Charlie Cook mula sa Bayan ng Camiling! Nawa’y patuloy kayong magsilbing inspirasyon sa ating komunidad at patuloy na itaguyod ang ating mayamang kultura at pagkakaisa,” Yap wrote.
