The culminating event of the three-day OCAP: Opportunity Capacitating Artist Professionals by Alex Carbonell was held on April 23, marking the highly anticipated competition that followed two days of intensive training and hands-on demonstrations. This final day showcased the participants’ newfound skills, creativity, and passion in a fierce but inspiring hair and makeup competition, one of the highlights of Sakayan Festival activities and gender-responsive initiatives of the city government.
Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, in her message, emphasized the essence of OCAP and the city’s commitment to inclusive development: “It’s not just about what we did, it’s about the dignity we hold. We want everyone to be a champion, empowered, even the vulnerable must be empowered. Thank you for making us proud to be Isabeleños. Seeing everyone happy is the reason we have HAPIsabela and strive for a dignified life for all.”
The competition brought out the best in every team, but three emerged victorious:
CHAMPION: Team 10 – Make-up by Hannah Gail Strong; Hair by Tonette Palomar
1st Runner-Up: Team 1 – Make-up by Megan Manzo; Hair by Janet Soler
2nd Runner-Up: Team 7 – Make-up by Elden Wayne Solamo; Hair by Jazmine Delos Reyes
During the closing program, City Information Officer and GAD Focal Mendry-Ann Lim recognized the dedication and skill displayed by all participants: “Thank you for this day, you truly gave your best and your heartfelt touch for the Local Women’s Council. Your work today reflects the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment.” She further emphasized that Gender and Development must be inclusive and responsive to the needs of all Isabeleños, underlining the city’s ongoing commitment to equity and creativity.
The three-day OCAP program, spearheaded by the City Government of Isabela de Basilan under the visionary leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia A. Turabin-Hataman, was made possible through the synergy of the City Tourism Office, led by Claudio Ramos II, and the GAD Unit.
The workshop was facilitated by renowned Philippine hair and makeup expert Alex Carbonell, together with his team, Rawsienna “Shane” Bautista and Michael “Mike” Estrada. Their expertise empowered participants with the latest techniques and creative confidence, nurturing Isabela City’s growing pool of local artists. (Words by R. Natividad-Sarael, GAD Unit/Photos by KJ Evardo, IsaTV)
