Hannah Arnold. Image: Instagram/@bbpilipinasofficial
It was an honor for Binibining Pilipinas Hannah Arnold to represent the Philippines in the Miss International pageant, saying she remains grateful for her journey in the Japan-based pageant.
The Masbate-born beauty queen, who managed a Top 15 finish in the 60th Miss International, took pride in her journey in a lengthy Instagram post on Thursday, Dec. 15. Arnold’s post was accompanied by a video during the pageant’s national costume, evening gown, and swimsuit rounds.
“Ue o mireba kagiri nashi [or] there is no end [or] limit to what you can achieve [star emoji] This is a Japanese proverb that helped me overcome many challenges and find Hope over these past weeks,” Arnold said. “It is something I wanted to share to the international community on stage but I share it today instead, and do so while happy and content.”
Arnold said her Miss International experience was “absolutely unforgettable,” adding that it was a privilege to represent the Philippines for the past two years.
“It may seem cliche but I will truly be returning home with a grateful heart, a camera roll full of irreplaceable memories, many new sisters and mamas from around the world, and the realization that we truly can achieve anything. Philippines, it was an [honor] to wear you across my heart, for the past 2 years. I am proud to be Filipino. Mahal ko kayo,” she wrote.
The 26-year-old beauty queen also thanked the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI), pageant team, loved ones, and supporters — dubbed as “Hannahbees” — for their support.
Arnold ended her Miss International journey in the Top 15 during the pageant’s coronation night, while Jasmin Selberg of Germany brought home the title.
Kylie Versoza, who was crowned in 2016, remains to be the last Filipina to win the Miss International title. EDV