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| Jirah stands gracefully in the vibrant rice fields of Norala, South Cotabato’s Rice Granary |
For Jirah Shammeh Nitafan Bantas, returning to the world of pageantry is more than a comeback—it is the pursuit of an unfulfilled dream. Encouraged by a wave of support from fans and mentors, she reenters the spotlight with renewed purpose, determined to represent South Cotabato on the national stage.
“I received countless messages encouraging me to step back on stage. Their belief in me reignited my own,” she shares. “Winning the crown isn’t just about personal validation—it’s a chance to give my province a voice.”
Known as a certified kontesera, Jirah has carved a space for herself in both local and national pageants. Her breakthrough came at the Mutya ng South Cotabato 2022, where she represented Tantangan and finished as First Runner-Up. But for her, pageantry goes far beyond the glitz and glamour. It is a platform to amplify advocacies close to her heart.
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| With grace and pride, Jirah Bantas was sashed along with other candidates on July 7 during the official ceremony at South Cotabato Gymnasium | photographed by Darren Jay Creative Studio |
“Pageantry opened doors I never imagined—modeling, hosting, judging events. But more than that, it gave me a purpose. The crown isn’t just symbolic; it’s a responsibility,” she says.
This year, she proudly carries the banner of JLS Construction, a company committed to uplifting local talents.
“As a singer and advocate for empowering artisans and creatives, our partnership is rooted in shared values. Together, we aim to inspire people to reach their full potential.”
But stepping back into the spotlight was not without its challenges. With praise came criticism, and Jirah faced online bullying for rejoining the competition.
“I expected the labels and doubts, but I chose to turn them into motivation,” she says.
“This isn’t about proving others wrong—it’s for my family, especially my lola, and the young dreamers who saw hope in my journey. I want to show them that resilience is power.”
She believes in pageantry’s potential as a force for change and champions the rights of PWDs, the LGBTQIA+ community, and Indigenous People. She also uses her platform to uplift local artists, spotlighting South Cotabato’s creative pulse through music and advocacy.
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| Jirah’s ‘Apoy ng Pagbangon’ Tnalak haute couture piece symbolizes her powerful transformation and resilience | photographed by Darren Jay Rabulan |
“Mutya ng South Cotabato isn't just a pageant. It’s a stage where real stories are heard. When we nurture local talents, we empower entire communities,” she says.
If given the chance to design a community initiative, Jirah envisions a creative hub—a collaborative space for artisans, musicians, and performers to learn, grow, and celebrate their identities. Paired with mental health and anti-bullying seminars in schools, her vision reflects a holistic approach to empowerment.
The road back has not been easy. She speaks of the sacrifices made during preparation, including being away from her family, but finds strength in her support system.
“The love of my team and family keeps me grounded. Their belief in me reminds me why I started.”
Jirah’s journey is a story of transformation. From being bullied to representing her province nationally, her experience has shaped her into a contender uniquely equipped for the crown.
“I come from a place of struggle, but I rise with purpose,” she says. “My unfulfilled dream still burns inside me. Now, I return not just with experience, but with heart.”
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