For Cristeta Longey, the crown she earned in Benguet was never just about sparkle and spotlight. It represented months of discipline, sacrifice, and belief in a system she trusted. But in early February, that trust gave way to a difficult truth — one that led her to walk away.

In an emotional statement, the beauty queen confirmed her decision to resign from her title and withdraw from the national competition, choosing integrity over uncertainty.

“This was not an easy decision,” Cristeta shared. “From the moment I won, I immediately began preparing for the national stage. Every day was spent working toward that dream.”

A journey built on preparation

After claiming her provincial crown in late 2025, Cristeta immersed herself in training. Her days revolved around fittings, photoshoots, workshops, and personal development.

“I reached out to designers, attended trainings, and invested everything I had into this journey,” she said. “I was reassured that we were moving forward and that everything was in place.”

For months, she believed she was on track — until January 2026 brought an unexpected shift.

“At no point was I informed that I might not be able to compete,” she explained. “Then suddenly, I was told full support would no longer be available.”

Two options, one heavy choice

According to Cristeta, she was given two paths: extend her reign until 2027 or compete without complete backing.

“I chose to believe in the process,” she recalled. “I deeply trusted that things would be resolved.”

Part of the agreement, she said, included a joint public statement that she would review before release. But events soon took another turn.

By the end of January, her team discovered that another contestant was already being prepared to represent Benguet.

“This information did not come directly from the organization,” Cristeta revealed. “I learned about it from other sources, even while my title was still in effect.”

When silence became the loudest answer

A draft statement was later sent to her — one she felt failed to reflect her reality.

“I wasn’t asking for anything unfair,” she said. “I only wanted something clear, truthful, and respectful.”

Instead, her efforts to clarify were met with criticism.

“My responses were labeled as ‘difficult’ and even called ‘utter disloyalty,’” she shared.

That moment marked a turning point.

“I realized I had to stand up for myself — not out of anger, not out of pride — but out of self-respect,” Cristeta said.

Choosing herself

The final push came as delays and unanswered commitments continued, including concerns about promised prizes.

“The lack of transparency and the repeated need to chase what was already promised was deeply disheartening,” she admitted.

With her values no longer aligned with the situation, Cristeta chose to resign.

“Sometimes, choosing yourself means holding your ground, even when it feels heavy,” she reflected.

“Sometimes, it means stepping back when the process no longer matches the values you started with.”

She emphasized that speaking up should never be confused with betrayal.

“I approached every conversation with courtesy, professionalism, and respect,” she said. “Standing up for myself is not disloyalty.”

Gratitude amid disappointment

Despite the painful ending, Cristeta remains thankful for the people who supported her.

“I am grateful for the experience, even if it ended differently than I imagined,” she shared.

“This is not the end of my journey — only a pause to realign with what matters most.”

She also expressed hope that her story would inspire change.

“I hope this opens space for reflection — on honoring commitments, communicating clearly, and standing by titleholders,” she said.

“Let this be a reminder to honor your voice and your worth.”

Beyond the crown

Hailing from Atok, Benguet, Cristeta has long been an advocate for youth empowerment, HIV awareness, mental health, and gender expression — causes she says will remain at the heart of her work, crown or no crown.

As the pageant world moves forward toward its next coronation, with Ahtisa Manalo set to pass on her crown, Cristeta chooses a different spotlight — one rooted in dignity and self-respect.

“I move forward with faith, grace, and hope,” she said.

“And I pray that no one else has to face a situation like this.”

In stepping away, Cristeta Longey did not lose her voice. Instead, she found it — clearer, stronger, and firmly her own.