They joined Solo’s third Online Model Search and emerged triumphant.

After raking in online votes and impressing the judges at the go-see and interviews, Edward Angelo Espinola and Sophia Balagat were declared the new faces of the brand, beating around a hundred other aspirants.

The two were launched in Solo’s summer 2012 campaign, wearing pieces from the brand’s military-inspired collection. The clothes from the collection can now be found in Solo stores along with bikinis, cover-ups and other beach essentials.

Sheree Roxas Gotuaco, chief executive officer of Elite Garments, the company behind the brands Solo, Freeway, Ensembles and Twenty-two BC, said the fun is just starting for Solo this year. “Exciting stuff await our customers! We will soon be launching the third artist for Solo’s Pinoy Cartoonist Memorabilia Series. This collection will feature a funny character who everyone knows. After summer, we will launch Solo’s next Online Model Search. It’s always exciting to see the creativity of the entries.”

But for now, get to know the current Solo Online Model Search winners.

Edward Angelo Espinola

Tell us about yourself.

I’m 24 years old and I’m still a student. I studied in Emilio Aguinaldo College and was taking up Marketing but I stopped for now. I gave way for my youngest brother to continue his studies. But I’m starting to save up for my own studies and I’m hoping that I’d be able to study this coming semester.

What are your interests/passions?

I like playing the guitar and the piano. I’m also into basketball. I prefer moving and doing things than sit on the couch all day long and play video games. I’m also into electronics and clothes. I sometimes customize my clothes. I make minimal changes, I cut some parts like the neckline or the sleeves. I learned how to sew out of curiosity, and I started with a coin purse. I put my pair of jeans in a tub of bleach and water and left it there until it faded. These were fun experiments.

Why did you decide to join Solo’s Online Model Search?

I just gave it a try. My entry was one of the latest pictures. I needed to earn for my education and I really wanted to have a print ad. Then I won, lucky me!

How do you feel about winning?

I couldn’t believe it at first… I almost dropped my phone when the Solo team called.

What do you love about Solo?

I love the way the clothes fit. I’m a bit thin for my height so I have difficulty finding sizes from other brands. The price is worth it!

Sophia Balagat

Tell us about yourself.

My full name is Sophia Abdulla Ahmed, Balagat is my middle name. I’m half Arab-half Filipina, the only child in the family. I turned 23 last January 12. I graduated at ABE Intl. College Legarda Branch, I took up HRM. I’ve been working at Philippine Wine Merchants for about a year now. I started modeling when I was 15.

What are your interests/passions?

I am so into music, I like singing and dancing. I play badminton and volleyball with my friends, I also sometimes try running. I love going to the beach and I love water-related activities. I tried scuba diving once and I really enjoyed it! I like to cook and eat especially Italian and Japanese food.

Why did you decide to join Solo’s Online Model Search?

For me it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity, so I tried it. It will also help my modeling career and develop my personality and confidence. This is something I can be proud of forever.

How do you feel about winning?

I feel so overwhelmed. The feeling was incredible. It is a dream come true.

What do you love about Solo?

Solo sets the trends.

Visit Solo.com.ph. You can also find the brand on Facebook and Twitter.