Walt Disney once said imagination has no age, and dreams are forever. It is imagination that turns generosity and resourcefulness into a gift to touch countless lives.
Taking its outreach programs further, the University of Mindanao Alumni Association, Inc. (UMAAI) staged an Ambassador and Ambassadress pageantry celebrating the 30th UM Alumni Grand Homecoming gala night held at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao.
Ladies came in the affair in their most sparkling and classy gowns while the gentlemen were dapper in their suits.
As one of the night’s judges and I can tell that the contestants are determined to show that age is just a number to engage in the school and community programs.
Emelita de Chavez Butardo, a single mom of three grown-ups, emerged as UMAII Ambassadress winner after besting other contestants.
Butardo is an active participant of the UMDI community outreach program such as tree planting, and distribution of educational supplies to selected schools. She advocates financial literacy to secure the family’s future. She is also into wellness advocacy and promotes practices that prevent aging.
Completing her court are first runner-up Leigh Ann Molina Leones and second runner-up Geralene Clarito.
Philippine Air Force (PAF) active reservist Windell Garret Matutino was crowned UMAAI Ambassador.
Matutino spearheaded some programs such as the donation drive for the fire victims of Matina Aplaya. He also organized the transportation of unregistered voters of Mintal to the Commission on Elections 11 (Comelec 11) at Magsaysay Park.
First runner-up for UMAAI Ambassador is Michael Ursus Gonzales Sto. Tomas.
Special awards were also given to the best UMAAI. Prizes were given to the winners for Best in Gown, Glamorous Star, Couple of the Night, and Sparkle Stars.
Congratulations to all the winners, to the organizer Mayette Ibuyan, and the UMAAI.
