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And the crown certainly fits the Mass Communications graduate from Southwestern University as she showed everyone, from the judges to the audience, that she was in a class all on her own. From the beauty to the grace, to the quick wit and savvy smart, to the composure and calmness with which she answered the daunting final question, Anther managed to surpass every test that was thrown at her to certainly earn the distinction.
photo by Dan Douglas Ong. Source: Ms. Cebu Facebook Page.
Has it sunk in already, that you are indeed Miss Cebu?
Slowly it has, but I still don’t have the full grasp of being Miss Cebu.
To what do you attribute your win?
Well, we are judged holistically so that means on the first day, we were gathered together, we were already being judged. Everything was being taken into consideration. My total dedication to the entire experience, I think that made the difference. I wasn’t just into it for the sake of being there. I believe that when something is worth doing, then you should do it well.
Why did you join in the first place?
First and foremost, it was for personal development. There is already a lot to gain just in the chance to do it. It has gone beyond my own personal concerns. That is why we have our advocacies.
When did the idea of joining first crept into your mind?
The idea came from my parents because of my sister, Pierre Angeli, actually joined 10 years ago and right after that, murag naka-kontrata na. Ako na jud daw ang musunod. (laughs) She didn’t place though. She was there last night along with the rest of my family.
Tell us about your name, which is very intriguing.
Well, my dad’s name is Pierre. He decided to name everyone Pierre. But it’s good, I like the name. Quite masculine but it’s good. Anther? I don’t think they had an idea of what the name meant when they named me that because if you know what the name “Anther” means, you would realize that it’s really one made for a guy. But it’s a cool name. I haven’t met anyone yet with the same name as mine.
When did it sink in that you actually had a real shot at winning it all?
Right after the panel interview. That part was very crucial and I wanted to make sure that I left a good impression. And based on the results, I think I was able to do that.
What did you think of the final question?
It was a question that I studied but it never crossed my mind. It was something that was taken up throughout the entire course of the entire Miss Cebu experience and I think everybody already knew about eco-tourism. I’m quite glad that I had an idea of how to answer it.
What was going through your mind when you were the first one to be asked that question?
I just tried to gather myself and my thoughts and not let the nerves get in so I can think well. Nerves get into and they degrade your ability to answer. That’s what I tried to shrug off, the nervousness.
Let’s talk about your gown, which was very beautiful by the way.
I loved that gown! Just the chance to wear Cary Santiago, that was a lifetime dream coming true. I was very lucky to pick Cary Santiago. I got to meet him, he was very nice, very professional and he made sure that the gown would really suit me.
Tell us about your experience with beauty pageants.
I joined a school pageant once. That was Miss College of Arts and Sciences and I won. It was that and Miss Cebu, just my second time being in a beauty pageant.
Your advocacy is patronizing local products and services, what made that your advocacy?
It is because being a media person, being a DJ lets me see a lot of potentials, a lot of emerging bands. If only they had the avenue to showcase that, then there would be a lot of opportunities for everyone. Not only that but through Miss Cebu, we have been able to showcase the talents of our local designers so there’s really a lot of talent and skill. If only we’ll be able to propagate this advocacy, then nobody would have to leave this city and find jobs somewhere else.
How did you start your career as a DJ?
Well there was a DJ hunt and just by chance, they heard me talk and they encouraged me to join the team and that’s the story. But I’ve always aspired to be one. It’s the mystery of it all. Just listening to the voice and now knowing what the person looks like.
Then again, where’s the mystery now especially since everybody knows what you look like?
(laughs) Oh well, it’s one of the sacrifices that I had to make if I want to advance yourself. You can’t cage yourself, you have to grow.
Did being a DJ help in your winning Miss Cebu?
Definitely, because being a DJ, you’re used to talking. And it’s important in Miss Cebu to have communication skills.
Safe to say so, you’ll have more listeners now?
(laughs) I hope so.
What’s your radio name?
It’s Leila. Why? Because my personality on radio is actually very different from my personality. My station manager decided on that name because my voice is sultry and feminine and the name Leila goes well with it.
If you were to pick your own name, what would it be?
I think my name Anther would suffice. It sounds like a DJ name anyway.
You have been a DJ for a year now, any weird experiences with your listeners?
Just the usual prank callers. Our listeners are actually very pleasant, they send flowers and stuff.
Is there a career that you would like to pursue?
I’m actually a construction media researcher at a company called Building Construction Information. That is my eight-hour job so you can tell that I have been very busy.
Are you ready for your lifestyle change? You got two jobs and now, you got the third one.
I know, right? The busier, the better. Personal development, I’m young so let’s do what it takes to gather up knowledge.
What’s your free time like?
I spend it with family first and foremost. I always allot time for the people dearest to me.
What are your other interests?
(laughs) I sing a lot. You can always catch me singing out a tune. I get quite annoying sometimes. (laughs)
Who are the people you look up to?
A lot! For one, Congresswoman Risa Hontiveros! She’s been an advocate for feminism and women empowerment. I just love women with a sense of purpose.
Do you see yourself going into politics?
Politics should bank on public trust. And should that be given to me, given the right time and I am confident that I am actually capable then why not? But that is just too far pa. (laughs) It’s something that I haven’t thought of.
What’s the biggest change within you since joining Miss Cebu?
I’m more feminine! (laughs) I’m quite laid-back. I wasn’t the “dressy” type of girl. But it’s fun to get in touch with this side of me.
The best part of Miss Cebu?
The best part is getting to meet people, especially the girls that I’m around with right now.
Most challenging part?
Overcoming the nerves, that’s just it. When you’re there, there are a lot of people watching you and you’re being judged, it can be nerve-wracking.
Catch more of Pierre Anther during our one-on-one interview with her and iSTORYA.NET representatives.
Jonas Rey N. Panerio
Writer
iSTORYA.NET League of Writers
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