Photo courtesy of DSWD
CEBU CITY, Cebu (PIA) – The Home for Girls (HFG), a residential care facility of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 7, held its annual Miss Feb-ibig pageant on Feb. 25, 2025.
This event aims to help young survivors of abuse, violence, and exploitation regain confidence and self-worth.
HFG provides temporary shelter and rehabilitation for girls who have faced traumatic experiences.
Many arrive with emotional scars and low self-esteem.
To support their healing, the center organizes activities like the Miss Feb-ibig pageant, focusing on self-expression and empowerment.
According to HFG center head Jenifer S. Abastillas, the pageant was not just about beauty but about courage and resilience.
“Some of these girls come from disadvantaged backgrounds and have experienced various forms of abuse, including rape, incest, online exploitation, trafficking, abandonment, and neglect. Our mission is to provide them with opportunities to address their trauma, allowing them to express themselves in ways they feel comfortable,” said Abastillas.
Eight contestants joined in various segments, including a talent show, evening gown presentation, and question and answer portion.
Four younger participants also joined a mini-competition for the Little Miss Feb-ibig title.
The girls showcased their creativity by repurposing gowns and adding personal touches to their attire.
The newly-crowned Miss Feb-ibig, a 14-year-old rape survivor, touched hearts with her response in the question and answer round.
When asked to choose between romantic love and family love, she chose the love of her parents.
“Bisan og magkinaunsa, dawat ta sa atong mga ginikanan. Ang atong uyab, pwede rang mawala ug mabuwagan ta, pero ang gugma sa atong mga ginikanan, dili mawala,” she said.
(No matter what, our parents will always accept us. A boyfriend may come and go, but the love of our parents will never disappear.)
Other contestants received awards for their talents and efforts, including Miss Photogenic, Best in Gown, Best in Production Number, and Best in Talent.
The winner will represent HFG in the upcoming Miss Juana pageant in March as part of the Women’s Month celebration.
As of Feb. 26, 2025, the Home for Girls cares for 46 residents, each with a unique journey of recovery.
Through activities like the Miss Feb-ibig pageant, HFG continues to help young survivors rebuild their confidence and hope for a brighter future.
The Home for Girls serves as a place of refuge and rehabilitation, offering comprehensive services such as shelter, education, counseling, and skills training to help girls heal and rebuild their lives.
These homes have not only protected girls from harm but have also empowered them to overcome adversity, pursue their dreams, and contribute positively to their communities. (MYP/PIA7 Cebu with reports from DSWD 7)
