Ana Isabel Carrizo Castillo Wins Historic Margarita Lozano Medal for Calle Arriba de Las Tablas

Ana Isabel Carrizo Castillo, the reigning queen of Calle Arriba de Las Tablas, has made history by winning the prestigious Margarita Lozano Medal 2026, considered the highest honor for a "empollerada" (a woman wearing a traditional pollera dress) in Panama. The announcement was made by the Calle Arriba de Las Tablas organization, which proudly celebrated their queen's achievement, recognizing her excellence, elegance, and dedication to representing the national costume.

Carrizo Castillo's triumph did not stop there; she also clinched first place in the "Polleras Zurcidas" (embroidered polleras) category, earning the María Eugenia González Ruiz Medal. This dual victory marks a historic moment for the Las Tablas "tuna" (a traditional carnival group).

Following her significant win, the queen returned to her community to celebrate during the National Pollera Day festivities. She was met with music, joy, and warm affection from her supporters. Through her social media, Ana Isabel Carrizo shared an emotional message of gratitude, dedicating her victory to God, Santa Librada, her family, grandparents, and all who supported her journey. "There are moments that remain forever etched in the heart, and this is one of them," she expressed.

She specifically highlighted the support from her board of directors, her "tuna," and particularly her uncle Carlos Castillo, whom she credited for a fundamental role in her path to victory. Carrizo Castillo also acknowledged the artisans and collaborators behind the winning pollera, including her uncle Nene Polo and the artisans responsible for each intricate detail. She further thanked Mileydis Vargas for her preparation and guidance, stating that her effort and discipline were evident on stage. The award-winning pollera featured design work by Eric Polo, craftsmanship by Zunilda Madrid, and tembleques (traditional headdress ornaments) by Luis De León, all contributing to Ana Isabel Carrizo's historic achievement.