More than just crowns and sashes, the 81st Liberation Pageant is a celebration of heritage and heart, where each contestant carries the voices of her loved ones and the spirit of an island that’s proud, resilient, and rooted in legacy.

“For the ladies, we tell them, tell the stories of your families who have been affected,” said Sash Santos, Pageant Director of the 81st Liberation. 

Santos and Yona Mayor Brian “BJ” Terlaje, who also chairs the Liberation Pageant Committee, are reimagining what it means to be crowned liberation queen. 

This year, the title won’t solely be determined by ticket sales. 

Instead, contestants will compete in four categories that reflect the pageant’s deeper purpose.

“Most especially, the question and answer portion–because we as a committee believe, these queens, whoever the representative is–she will be the ambassador of the island beyond the liberation–so, that’s the reason why we brought on the pageant,” said Terlaje.  

They’re also opening the doors once closed for groups of women: Widening the age cap, and allowing mothers and married women to participate. 

“Give other women the opportunity to live that dream–sometimes when they see the cap at 25, they think that’s it for me. But I think the dream for these ladies to have the opportunity to step forward and still present the best and be part of such a legacy,” said Santos. 

And as six contestants from Yona, Yigo, Chalan Pago, Santa Rita, Mangilao, and Piti step into the spotlight, they’re not just chasing a crown. 

They’re uplifting their communities, too, with each raising funds for a nonprofit close to their heart.

“25% of their total funds will go to that charity, and another 25% will be going to the liberation committee to assist with all the logistical necessities to include the liberation  queen’s float,” added Terlaje. “Of course, 25% will go to the sponsoring village to assist with community efforts, and another 25% will go to the queen herself.”

The stage is set for Friday, June 27, at the Leopalace Resort, where the next Liberation Queen will be crowned. Doors open at 6 p.m. 

Tickets will be available at the door and at each contestant’s respective mayor’s office.