Miss PhiliPPines earth is in full blooM
Now in its 19th edition, Miss Philippines Earth 2019 adopted a floral theme in search of a new set of environmental ambassadors. Forty blooming ladies were introduced to the media recently at the poolside of The Diamond Hotel in Manila.
Halfway through the presentation, the rain poured but the candidates kicked off their high heels and gracefully strutted in their swimsuits with their sash indicating the cities they represent, while the flower they chose to honor neatly rested on one ear.
“We’ve been known for highlighting various aspects of the environment in our annual event,” Carousel president Ramon Monzon pointed out. “This time, we’ve decided to showcase the rich flora of our country. They’re not only symbols of beauty, but also a reminder that we are agents in making sure Mother Earth blooms to its fullest if we take care of her.”
There are five delegates from the international Filipino communities representing Barcelona (Spain), Germany, Marche (Italy), Melbourne (Australia) and Vancouver (Canada). Aimee Montales from Italy chose to honor the buttercup flower, which she said represents humility, neatness and childishness.
“The roots of the buttercup plant can be used to treat boils, eczema, warts and other skin conditions,” she explained. “Buttercup essential oil is used in aromatherapy and is known to bring calmness, joy and sweetness into your life.”
The seven ladies representing NCR were presented next, including Caloocan, Mandaluyong, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Pasig and Valenzuela. Two girls who
both graduated from Ateneo shared a lot in common, including a bed as pageant roommates. Pasig and Marikina quickly became friends. Janelle Tee of Pasig represented the water lily, which she noted absorbs pollutants from the Pasig River while also helping cure kidney pain, diarrhea and sore throat. Alexandra Dayrit of Marikina chose the bougainvillea, which she said is identified with prosperity, passion and beauty.
“The flowers can help cure cough, sore throat, diarrhea, diabetes and low-blood pressure,” she added.
Luzon was represented by 11 ladies from Antipolo, Calapan (Oriental Mindoro), Carmona (Cavite), Castillejos (Zambales), Dasmariñas (Cavite), Gattaran (Cagayan Valley), Mansalay (Oriental Mindoro), Naga, San Mateo, Sto. Domingo (Nueva Ecija) and Tanauan (Batangas).
Dentist Nicole Gayeta of Calapan noted that the kalachuchi has medicinal benefits such as being anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, antioxidant and anti-tumor. She further said that the kalachuchi is a tree of life “because it still blooms and has a wonderful perfume after being cut down.”
The other candidate from Oriental Mindoro, Jobelle Pajanel, maintained that the coconut tree is “one of the oldest flowering trees in the world, that’s why it was called our tree of life.” Jobelle added that “it is rich in fiber and promotes stable blood sugar, good digestion and heart health.”
Visayas had 10 candidates from Altavas (Allan), Catbalogan (Samar), Iloilo, Jagna (Bohol), Maasin (Iloilo), Ormoc, Romblon, San Remigio (Cebu), Tacloban and Tanauan (Leyte).
One of the tallest at 5’10”, Ana Cenarosa of Iloilo City, noted that for most Filipinos, the santan “brings back joyous and amazing childhood memories.” The flower is said to cure hiccups, loss of appetite, diarrhea and sore throat. Chelsea Fernandez of Tacloban picked chrysanthemums, also known as Malaysian mums. She claimed the flower could cure diabetes, while also symbolizing hope, optimism and joy.
Mindanao was represented by seven girls from Baganga (Davao Oriental), Dapitan, Esperanza (Agusan Del Sur), Gen. Santos, Midsayap (North Cotobato), Samal and Tagoloan (Misamis Oriental).
Ana Monica Tan of Tagoloan identified with the fire tree, which has antispasmodic and anti-rheumatic properties. “It represents the fiery passion of my hometown Tagoloan,” she added.
Patricia Hoffman chose tulips since it’s a symbol of hope and optimism. “It is an official symbol of Parkinson’s disease, a disease that basically affects movement. It has antiseptic properties to cure cough and colds,” she added.
The new Miss Philippines Earth 2019 will be crowned on July 10 at Cove Manila. The event will be aired on Sunday, July 14, on ABS-CBN Sunday’s Best.
Another highlight of the show is a tribute to staunch environmentalist Gina Lopez. “We thought it fitting to recognize the work of one of our environmental heroes,” said executive vice president Lorraine Schuck. “Gina Lopez has always supported Miss Philippines Earth, and by honoring her and her achievements, we hope to inspire more people, especially the young women who have joined the pageant, to emulate her love for and dedication to the environment.”