Danice Decolongon of Ilog town was crowned Lin-ay sang Negros 2018 on April 20, 2018.

This 18-year-old senior high graduate of Liceo de La Salle is the first to win the title for the southern Negros municipality since the beauty search began in 1994.

Decolongon bested 26 other candidates during the coronation night witnessed by about 4,000 people at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City.

The new Lin-ay, who succeeded Lin-ay sang Negros Angelica Esther Portugaleza of Bago City, received a cash prize of P70,000, a trophy, and a sash.

Klaire Ann Libre of Toboso was named first runner-up with a cash prize of P50,000, while Yasmine Cabalfin of Hinigaran, who came in second runner-up, received P30,000.

The Top 3 winners also received special awards — Decolongon won as Best in Evening Gown; Cabalfin, Best in Swimwear; Cabalfin, Best in Festival Costume, People’s Choice, and Miss GMA Kapuso.

Among the judges was Binibining Pilipinas 2018 first runner-up Vickie Marie Rushton, who was crowned Lin-ay sang Negros in 2009, representing Talisay City.

The pageant, one of the highlights of the 25th Panaad sa Negros Festival themed, “Panaad @25: The Promise Fulfilled,” held on April 14 to 22, was participated in by 27 candidates, the biggest batch in its history.

This year’s winner was the 24th to be crowned Lin-ay sang Negros since the pageant was not held in 1995.

Bacolod City has bagged the most number of titles, with five, winning in 2006, 2007, 2012, 2013, 2014. Sagay City and Hinobaan follow with three wins each. (PNA)