Maricar Malingan Tapay, a 4th-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing student at Ifugao State University (IFSU) and Ms. IFSU 2022, was crowned ‘Bugan di Lamut 2024’ on 05 April 2024.

Tapay, the eldest child of Mr. Abul Jalligao Tapay, Jr. and Ms. Vivien Joy Malingan Tapay, hails from Nayon, Lamut, Ifugao.

"I was inspired by the Nayon community," Tapay shared. "It's been over a decade since they won the crown. I proudly dedicate this win to them."

According to Tapay, she intends to leverage this platform to raise awareness about public health issues. "As a nursing student, I will use this unique opportunity to educate and raise awareness about emerging and re-emerging diseases in the community," she explained. "This is through sharing knowledge and insights, which can help people better understand these health threats and empower them to take preventive measures. This initiative not only showcases the commitment of IFSUans to their core values but also highlights the importance of public health education."

This victory adds to her growing collection of pageant titles such as Ms. Valentines ITVS 2019, Ms. IFSU Lamut Campus 2022, and Ms. IFSU Intercampus 2022.

While this Bugan di Lamut 2024 has dedicated time to pageantry, she emphasizes her focus on academics and family especially as she prepares for the upcoming nursing board examinations.

"Now, I aim to focus on my studies and my family," she stated. "After passing my board exam, I plan to pursue advanced education."

Tapay's impressive Bugan di Lamut 2024 achievements include not just the crown but also several special awards including Best in Talent, Best in Native Attire, Ms. Erase Placenta, Ms. Force for Love Foundation, and Ms. Body Beautiful.

The Bugan and Wigan di Lamut 2024 competition, a highlight of the annual town fiesta in Lamut, Ifugao, also saw success for other IFSU students. Erben Biniahan from the College of Arts and Sciences secured Wigan di Lamut 2024 First Runner-up, while Kenji Baysa from the College of Criminal Justice Education placed as the Wigan di Lamut 2024 Second Runner-up.

//DDT