Photo by Krissy Aguilar / INQUIRER.net
The 18th iteration of the Miss Earth international beauty contest kicked off on Thursday, Oct 11, with the presentation to media of the 90 candidates at the Manila Diamond Hotel.
The presentation of the Miss Earth 2018 candidates was hosted by reigning Miss Earth 2017 Karen Ibasco and Miss Air Philippines 2018 Zahrah Bianca Saldua.
Miss Earth 2015 Angelia Ong was also present at the event to encourage everyone’s participation in the Conservation of Ocean Resources and Aquatic Life (CORAL) movement.
“We made it our mission and our passion to save the Philippine seas so please let’s not take it for granted,” she said.
Ong also mentioned how residents of Camiguin Island, Carabao Island and Sta. Cruz, Marinduque have created glass jewelry from soda and beer bottles that have littered the beaches.
“This is not recycling, but really upscaling. Sabi nila merong pera sa basura pero meron ding kayamanan sa basura,” the Miss Earth 2015 added.
“We always have to find something to make something better or useful and more beautiful.”
In the upcoming Miss Earth 2018, the Philippines will be represented by 20-year-old model Celeste Cortesi.
The pageant that aims to bring awareness on environmental issues will be held on November 3 at the Mall of Asia Arena. /muf