Angelica Lopez is ‘Pearl of the Orient Seas’ in Miss International 2024
Bb. Pilipinas Angelica Lopez in her ‘Pearl of the Orient Seas’ costume by designer Patrick Isorena/ANGELICA LOPEZ FACEBOOK PHOTOS
Binibining Pilipinas Angelica Lopez was decked in pearls at the 2024 Miss International pageant’s national costume show in Japan on Sunday afternoon, Nov. 3.
The Palawen̈a lass showcased her costume called “Pearl of the Orient Seas,” created by renowned Filipino fashion designer Patrick Isorena, whose clientele includes 2022 Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel.
This is the first time that the Miss International pageant has held a separate National Costume show. In the previous editions, the costume parade happens during the opening segment of the coronation night.
The delegates paraded their costumes on the red carpet laid down at the newly-opened Professional University of Beauty & Wellness in Yokohama, south of Tokyo. Admission to the event was free to the public.
Lopez’s costume, she said on social media, is “[a] dazzling tribute to the Filipino heritage, this extraordinary national costume symbolizes the Philippines’ rich history and unparalleled natural beauty.”
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Isorena used thousands of pearls and crystals, meticulously placed on the costume to capture “the essence of the Philippines,” she said. Incidentally, the designer also created the “Anahaw” national costume that 2024 Miss Grand International first runner-up CJ Opiaza used in her global competition last month.
“[T]his unique ensemble not only showcases our cultural legacy but also pays homage to the age-old art of pearl diving that the Philippines is renowned for. Each piece is hand-crafted with love, ensuring that the spirit of our ancestors shines through,” Lopez said of her costume.
“Every pearl tells a story, and this national costume, passed down through generations, represents a timeless connection to our heritage,” she continued.
The “Best in National Costume” award will be presented during the coronation show at the Tokyo Dome City Hall in Tokyo, Japan, on Nov. 12.
But before this, the Miss International pageant will hold its preliminary evaluation, also at the Professional University of Beauty and Wellness, on Nov. 10. The event, previously conducted behind closed doors, will be open to the public for the first time this year.
Lopez is aiming to post the Philippines’ seventh Miss International victory. Filipinos may help get her closer to the crown by voting for her on the pageant’s official mobile app.
