MUPh candidates pitch advocacy on agriculture, education
TWO candidates for Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) competition are taking steps toward advancing their advocacy for agriculture and education.
In an interview with The Manila Times, Phoebe Arriana Torita of Kananga, Leyte, and Anita Rose Gomez of Zambales discussed their advocacy, which focuses on small farmers and accessible education.
Torita, a former varsity rhythmic gymnast and aspiring tourism student, has extensive experience managing her family’s farming operation, which allows her to dedicate her time to helping local farmers.
“As a farmer’s daughter, I passionately advocate for the support and recognition of local farmers. My goal is to collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and stakeholders to ensure that farmers receive updated training and have access to modern farming technologies.
“I am committed to being part of the movement that empowers our farmers and uplifts their livelihoods,”Torita shared.
The youngest of the 55 candidates at the age of 18, Torita is focused on picking up all of the training and workshops for the upcoming pageant, even though she has the shortest preparation time.
Meanwhile, Gomez, a native of Zambales province, has competed in several beauty contests in the Philippines and has led a number of philanthropic efforts aimed at improving the lives of children in less fortunate areas.
Gomez told The Manila Times that, despite coming from a poverty-stricken family, she always has a heart for her community.
“My Para Kay Juan At Juana project started way back in 2019; it was just an initiative of mine and my friends to give back to our community, and we started with a simple feeding program where we also incorporate learning through teaching them and by giving them the materials that they need to learn, such as books and school materials.
“We visited numerous communities, and I personally really wanted to focus on the marginalized sector and our natives (i.e., the Aeta community), for I think that they are the ones who are suffering from unequal access to quality education,” Gomez said.
MUPh coronation night is set on May 11 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.