Bella Manuel led a heartfelt show of support for Allyson Hetland, Pampanga’s representative to the Miss Universe Philippines 2026, by personally crafting handmade bracelets as tokens of encouragement ahead of coronation night.

“Ginawa ko po ito para kay Ate Ally to show support and wish her good luck,” Bella said.

Bella is the daughter of Reina Manuel, Chief Political Affairs Officer of Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., who also expressed support by sending flowers with a handwritten note for Hetland.

Manuel also thanked Michael Cacai Muñoz for facilitating the meeting and commended his guidance of the Pampanga candidate.

“We are truly grateful to Sir Cacai for making this possible. His dedication and guidance to Allyson, together with the whole Pampanga team, reflect his genuine commitment to helping her shine and represent Pampanga with pride,” Manuel said.

Meanwhile, ASec IC Calaguas of the Department of Transportation sent a token of support for Hetland.

“Malaki ang paniniwala namin kay Allyson. She carries not just beauty, but the heart and strength of a true Kapampangan,” Calaguas said.

Also present were pageant handler Poklong Guina and designer Frederick Policarpio, who joined in showing support.

In preparation for the May 2 coronation night, the office of Lazatin, with assistance from Calaguas and Manuel, also organized banners and lightsticks for supporters.

Hetland, a resident of Barangay Pandan, was crowned Mutya Ning Angeles 2024—the final titleholder under Lazatin’s term as city mayor—and previously served as an ambassador of the city’s One Town One Product (OTOP) program, promoting local products and micro, small, and medium enterprises.