Nicole Antonette Bendaen Tilap and Carla Stephanie Bendaen Tilap were born and raised in Baguio City. Each has forged a unique career path.
Carla Stephanie is a dedicated Wushu-Taolu athlete who has represented not just Baguio but the entire Philippines in various competitions, earning gold medals for her team. At a young age, she became an assistant coach for her team in Baguio City. Academically, Carla excels while pursuing her sports career. She is currently a second-year BS Physical Therapy student at the University of Baguio, a proud athlete scholar with aspirations to become an orthopedist. Carla aims to integrate her passion for sports into her career and youth development advocacy.
Nicole Antonette, on the other hand, is an artist at heart. A musician and chorale member since junior high school, she has won several competitions in the city. Academically, Nicole is pursuing a BS in Nursing with plans to specialize in Internal Medicine. A talented performing artist, Nicole was invited to join Team Philippines for the WCOPA (World Championships of Performing Arts) this year, but due to some constraints, her participation was postponed. She was the main Barbie at The Annual Manor Spectacular Show and has performed at numerous events in Baguio City through BADD Society. Nicole is also an active member of the Nightingale Band at her university. She had her first pageant experience last year, winning 1st Runner Up in Miss Ibaloi 2023. Since then, she has consistently advocated for cultural sensitivity, drawing from her own experiences of discrimination as a multi-ethnic individual.
Both Nicole and Carla are currently brand ambassadors and runway models for local artists. They are also active members of Cypress Community Church, participating in community services in Baguio and Benguet.
The twins have been dubbed the candidates "BEYOND SURFACE." At just 19 years old, they embody the true essence of beauty-one that transcends physical appearance and is deeply rooted in advocacy and practice.
This year, they aim to redefine what it means to be a Cordilleran woman: a woman with a strong mind and the ability to conquer not only the Cordilleras but the entire Philippines. Let us continue to inspire our youth to excel, recognize the importance of extracurricular activities, and guide them towards a successful future.
Once again, these are your candidates: Candidate No. 3: Carla Stephanie Bendaen Tilap and Candidate No. 8: Nicole Antonette Bendaen Tilap. They seek your support for this special night on August 30th at the Baguio Convention Center.
