Guam’s 81st Liberation Day celebration has crowned its queen — and with her, a royal court that embodies culture, community, and change. Antonia Maria Guerrero of Piti was named the 81st Liberation Queen, realizing a childhood dream.

The 20-year-old, who is married, dazzled judges and earned best in resort wear and best in evening wear.

For the first time in pageant history, new eligibility rules opened doors for more women to compete, including Haezal Mae Macaoay of Yigo, a 29-year-old mother and the only contestant of full Filipino descent raised on Guam. She proudly earned the title of Miss Ambassador.

The court also includes Royal Princess Alana Ungacta of Mangilao, who won most money raised and Miss Congeniality; Princess Marley Quidachay of Yona, who claimed Best in Native Costume; Miss International Rae’ara Cruz of Santa Rita-Sumai; and Miss Tourism Cassidy Guerrero of Chalan Pago-Ordot.

Organizers call this year’s full-scale pageant a symbol of a broader cultural shift — one rooted in tradition, but evolving with the times.