By CESAR JOLITO III
For 19-year-old tourism management student Sophia Kaye Zaragoza, it was more than just a crown — it was a dream fulfilled, a comeback story and a testament to the resilience of a Bacoleña heart.
Sophia from the University of St. La Salle (USLS) was crowned Miss Bacolod MassKara 2025, besting 14 other candidates during the glittering coronation night — one of the most awaited highlights of the 46th MassKara Festival — held at the USLS Coliseum.
Radiating confidence and charm, Sophia impressed the judges not only with her poise but with her empowering advocacy for youth employment and entrepreneurship.
She aims to create platforms that empower youth through jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities, inspired by her own journey as a working student.
After going unplaced in last year’s pageant, Sophia made a powerful comeback, earning the unofficial title of the night’s biggest redemption story.
“Honestly, I was hesitant to join again. But I surrounded myself with people who believed in me and pushed me to keep going,” Sophia emotionally recalled in her post-pageant interview.
Her perseverance paid off in dazzling fashion.
“Winning this crown feels so surreal — it’s been my dream since I joined my first pageant at 16. I poured my heart into this, and I’m beyond grateful,” she added.
Aside from the crown, Sophia also bagged Best in Festival Costume and Miss Photogenic, while her designer, Aaron Spencer Marin, received the Festival Costume Designer Award for her winning ensemble.
“Miss Bacolod MassKara has always been my dream,” Sophia said tearfully.
“And now that I finally wear this crown, I want to use it to give others the same hope and confidence I found in myself,” she added.
As the night ended in confetti and cheers, one thing was clear — Miss Bacolod MassKara 2025 was not just about beauty. It was about courage, second chances and the unwavering Bacolod spirit that smiles through every challenge.
Indeed, in a city known for its smiles, Sophia’s triumph is a reminder that every dream is worth chasing — and every comeback is worth celebrating./CJ, WDJ