Farewell Speech of Miss Cheryl Laranjo, Mutya sa Dipolog 2004

“Life can be as unpredictable as anyone could dare to imagine.”

I was so happy to be chosen as an official candidate for Mutya sa Dipolog 2004. July 1^st, the Lord surprised my family, and me giving us great joy for the title of Mutya sa Dipolog 2004. All this happed to a girl, who just wanted to experience, make her self-proud, and in return, she went on the most incredible journey of her life. It’s so hard to believe that a year has gone so fast! I can still remember as if it were yesterday, the crown being placed on my head that beautiful evening. My family, friends, as well as my heart, exploded that night as we celebrated together. And now, I couldn’t be more happy and excited to return to very same stage where my journey began.

It has truly been an unforgettable year, filled with adventure, new experiences, surprises, challenges, growth, tears, and smiles. It was a year filled with energy and love coming from everybody. To the people I have met, thank you for receiving me with open arms. Nothing means to than the memories of the amazing people I have met.

This year has also been a time for inner growth and learning, a time of giving and making a difference.

To the Mutya sa Dipolog Organization, Chaired by Madam Evelyn T. Uy, thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing this year with me. My heartfelt thanks for the support I received from you the entire step of the way; for the space to learn and grow and for believing in my dreams and aspirations go to Miss Jojo Leyson, Miss Gina Luy, and Miss Joy Ang. I will be forever grateful.

To Kuya Boyet, you did not only allow me to wear beautiful clothes but thank you for your patience and understanding and for staying by my side.

To my Mom and Dad, my sisters, you are my life and my soul. There will never be enough words to explain how I feel. You both are the perfect balances in the foundation that supports me. Everything I’ll ever achieve will be thanked to the values and strengths I have inherited from you. I love you all so much, thank you all for always being there for me, and showing the community and the rest of the world that our family is an example of pure love and unity.

To the 2005 Mutya sa Dipolog candidates and the next young woman, whose destiny will be to wear this beautiful crown: enjoy your time and treasure the memories of that time you shared to each other during the past weeks. They will be the living pictures in the back of your mind each time you recall them.

And last, but not the least, I would like to thank God for the blessings he has given me throughout my life. Thank you for embracing and protecting me and for loving us all so much. We sometimes forget that it is through H is guidance that our path is set. We should always remember that He is holding our hand with each step we take. Walk tall and proud most importantly-never forgets!