It’s been a long time coming for the UB community. Now, it’s finally here. The University of Batangas is more than a center of academic excellence; it is a community fueled by intelligence, talent, and dedication. This spirit was perfectly captured by the outstanding participants of this year’s university pageant, the Mr. and Ms. UB 2026.
As part of the UB’s 80th Founding Anniversary, this premier university pageant returned to the spotlight on the afternoon of February 13, 2026, showcasing bright and promising students ready to make their mark on the world.
A Night of Talent and Leadership at UB
As the University of Batangas celebrated eight decades of history, the return of Mr. and Ms. UB 2026 highlighted the immense potential of its student body. The Juan Y. Javier Culture & Arts Building welcomed students, faculty, alumni, and families to witness the crowning of the new ambassadors.
More than just a standard university pageant, the evening reflected the institution’s commitment to nurturing future leaders. It was not merely a competition for titles; it was a celebration of courage, character, and community spirit.
High Energy Fills the University Pageant Stage
From the moment the curtains opened, the atmosphere was electric. A lively production number kicked off the program, immediately capturing the audience’s attention. Music echoed through the venue as the candidates performed with confidence, followed by thunderous cheers from supporters waving banners and signs.
Eleven male and twelve female candidates represented their respective colleges. Each segment of the university pageant allowed the audience to see different facets of their personalities:
- Batangueño and Batangueña Attire: Candidates showcased traditional designs inspired by local culture, highlighting heritage and creativity.
- Formal Wear: Candidates displayed elegance and poise, reflecting the discipline required to compete at this level.
The University Pageant Crowning Moment
As the program reached its climax, anticipation filled the auditorium. When Mr. Darren Mico Mercado (College of Engineering) and Ms. Zoe Faith Genese (College of Nursing) were proclaimed the winners, the crowd erupted in celebration.
University President Lily Marlene J. Hernandez-Bohn and Senior Vice President for Administration Alex A. Ramos personally placed the crowns, marking the start of their journey as university ambassadors. In this university pageant, the titles represent far more than stage presence; they symbolize leadership, integrity, and the responsibility to serve as role models for the entire UB community.
Stories Behind the University Crowns
Behind the smiles and celebration were personal stories of courage and growth. For Mr. Darren Mico Mercado, winning the title was especially meaningful because it was his first time joining a pageant. Stepping onto the stage required him to move beyond his comfort zone and challenge himself in new ways. Through the experience, he gained confidence and a stronger sense of purpose. “I want a good representation of the school by instilling its core values,” he shared, expressing his commitment to representing the university with integrity.
Ms. Zoe Faith Genese also approached the competition with humility and determination. When asked about the pressure that comes with wearing the crown, she honestly responded, “Both yes and no.” Her answer reflected her awareness of the responsibility that comes with the title, while also recognizing it as an opportunity for growth. She accepted the role with grace, understanding that it carries expectations but also opens doors for leadership and service.
For both winners, the crowns represent not only achievement but also a commitment to uphold the values and spirit of the University of Batangas.
Recognizing the Royal Court
The royal court, meanwhile, received loud cheers from the audience.:
- 1st Runners-Up: Mr. Jam Marcus Tolentino (UBLC CCJE) and Ms. Thani Suyana Andrade (UBBC SHS) – awards presented by University Registrar Nenita E. Cuevas and SVP for Administration Mr. Alex A. Ramos
- 2nd Runners-Up: Mr. Prince Alec Jack Trayhurn (UBLC SHS) and Ms. Khatrisse Joy Abo (UBLC CEAS) – presented by AVP for Academic Affairs Dr. Lolita F. Tegon and Officer-in-Charge VP for Student Affairs & Services Mr. Christopher V. Quizon
- 3rd Runners-Up: Mr. Mc Lloyd Calayag (CEDU) and Ms. Althea Nicole Salva (CENG) – presented by Dr. Lolita F. Tegon and Corporate Secretary Mr. Jose Carmelino V. Quizon
- 4th Runners-Up: Mr. Vincent Emmanuel Sayas (UBLC CCJE) and Ms. Chloe Eve Hipolito (UBLC SHS) – recognized by Accounting Office Assistant Head Sonia P. Chua and Admission & Scholarship Officer Mr. Antonio P. Aquino, Jr.
Behind every name is a story of dedication, courage, and pride.
Special Awards and Recognition
In addition, special awards honored individual talent:
- Mr. and Ms. Photogenic: Mr. Mercado and Ms. Genese – awarded by Antbite Studios
- Mr. and Ms. Congeniality: Mr. Sayas and Ms. Hipolito – presented by UBLC SAEP Officer Ms. Milette De Torres and UBBC Student Affairs Officer Mr. Vincent M. Alcantara
- Best in Batangueño & Batangueña Costume: Mr. Sayas and Ms. Genese – awarded by ETEEAP Director Imelda M. De los Reyes and CBI Director Mr. Ericson D. Mendoza
- Best in Swimwear: Mr. Sayas and Ms. Hipolito – awarded by Distance Education Director Dr. Carl Ivan B. Villanueva and OOP Executive Assistant Dianne G. Landicho
- Best in Production Number: Mr. Sayas and Ms. Hipolito – awarded by Internship Officer Ma. Raissa Rani M. Beron and Alumni Relations Officer Abvic Maghirang
- Best in Formal Wear: Mr. Mercado and Ms. Genese – awarded by Atty. Roelito C. Garcia and Mrs. Marcia Vanessa Garcia
More Than a Pageant: Celebrating the UB Legacy
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the Mr. and Ms. UB 2026 pageant serves as a powerful platform to promote the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By empowering student leaders, the university fosters a culture of advocacy that resonates far beyond the campus walls.
While the audience focused on the stage, many individuals worked behind the scenes to make the event successful. Organizers, faculty advisers, student leaders, and sponsors collaborated closely for weeks to ensure that every part of the program ran smoothly. Their careful planning and teamwork reflected the standards of excellence that the University of Batangas has upheld for 80 years.
Fashion partners helped prepare the candidates for their stage presentations, while corporate sponsors provided the support needed for logistics, production, and overall event coordination. From technical arrangements to program flow, every detail was managed with dedication and professionalism.
Over time, Mr. and Ms. UB has grown beyond being just an annual event. It has become a platform that supports the university’s goal of holistic education. The pageant highlights skills that go beyond academics—confidence, leadership, discipline, teamwork, and the ability to represent the university with pride. It reminds students that they are not only learners inside the classroom but also ambassadors of UB’s values and community.
As the evening came to a close, the celebration reflected more than the crowning of two winners. It recognized the hard work, courage, and growth of every candidate who stepped onto the stage. Ultimately, Mr. and Ms. UB 2026 became a meaningful part of the university’s 80th Founding Anniversary, honoring its long-standing commitment to excellence and student development.
