THE CNMI is elevating its stature on the international pageantry stage with the launch of Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific on June 28.
Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific held its inaugural sash-pinning ceremony for eight beautiful and elegant hopefuls: Maria Analine Santiano Barcelo, Tanisha Joshi, Tiffany Rose Libreja, Donna Rose Santiago, Dharlee Bielle Santos Marquez, Bernice Shane Sabino, Justine Rain Kirby, and Anne Lordelle G. Rivera-Brownstein.
They were introduced to the community during a ceremony held at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium conference room. From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the venue transformed into a stage of elegance and empowerment as family, friends, and pageant supporters gathered to witness history in the making.
The event opened with warm, welcoming remarks from Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific Secretary Zowie Cruz, who reminded the crowd that this was more than just a beauty competition — it was a platform for purpose and pride.
“This ceremony marks a significant step in their journey, as they receive their sash — a symbol of their passion, dedication, and the privilege of representing the diverse cultures and communities of the Northern Marianas,” Cruz said.
The heart of the evening was the official introduction of the Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific platform — a pageant created to uplift women of every background, culture, and identity.
Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific Vice President and Treasurer Joann Aquino shared the mission with passion: “This is a space where beauty is not defined by one standard, but by the richness of our differences. Whether you’re from Saipan, Tinian, Rota, or beyond — your story matters.”
Each of the eight official candidates took the stage, proudly introducing themselves with their name, age, and village. As each candidate was sashed, the audience applauded with joy, recognizing the moment’s deep meaning.
Sashes were presented by the Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific leadership team — President and Franchise Owner Bench Legaspi, Vice President Joann Aquino, Secretary Zowie Cruz, and Director of Finance Sheryll Sabino.
“This isn’t just about wearing a crown,” said Eloise Lopez, director of marketing and public relations. “It’s about reclaiming who we are, honoring where we come from, and showing every young girl that she is already enough — just as she is.”
The event closed with a message of gratitude and encouragement from Sheryll Sabino, who reminded everyone: “These sashes represent unity, resilience, and the powerful stories our candidates carry. Wear them with pride.”
As cameras flashed and the night came to an emotional close, one thing was clear — Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific is not just a pageant. It’s the beginning of a movement rooted in culture, confidence, and the bold celebration of identity.
Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific candidates, clockwise from top left: Maria Analine Santiano Barcelo, Bernice Shane Sabino, Tanisha Joshi, Dharlee Bielle Santos Marquez, Anne Lordelle G. Rivera-Brownstein, Donna Rose Santiago, Justine Rain Kirby and Tiffany Rose Libreja. A sash-pinning ceremony was held on June 28 at the Ada gym. More details about the pageant will be announced soon.
The officers of Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific, from left, President and Franchise Owner Bench Legaspi, Director of Finance Sheryll Sabino, Director of Marketing and Public Relations Eloise Lopez, Secretary Zowie Cruz, and Vice President and Treasurer Joann Aquino.
Contributed photo
The Miss Northern Marianas Asia Pacific candidates pose with the pageant officers, led by president and franchise owner Bench Legaspi, center. The young ladies were introduced to the public on June 28, 2025 at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium conference room. They are Maria Analine Santiano Barcelo, Tanisha Joshi, Tiffany Rose Libreja, Donna Rose Santiago, Dharlee Bielle Santos Marquez, Bernice Shane Sabino, Justine Rain Kirby, and Anne Lordelle G. Rivera-Brownstein.
Contributed photo
