Guided by Miss International winners Bea Rose Santiago and Precious Lara Quigaman, Esguerra enters the Tokyo pageant with confidence and purpose.
As the Philippines awaits Ahtisa Manalo’s competition in the 74th Miss Universe in Bangkok on November 21, pageant fans are also turning their attention to another Filipina contender, Binibining Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra.
Esguerra, who is now in Tokyo, Japan, for the upcoming Miss International pageant, has been sharing stunning photos from her tours around scenic spots there, captivating her supporters not only with her travels but also with her carefully curated outfits and pageant looks worn during pre-pageant activities.
During her send-off a few weeks ago, Esguerra expressed full confidence and excitement for the competition.
“I have imagined this moment in my head more than a hundred times,” she said. “So now, I can’t wait to go there and to shout, ‘Philippines!’ ’”
Esguerra earned the right to represent the country after winning her Binibining Pilipinas title during the pageant’s 60th edition in 2024. She shared that the long preparation period allowed her to deepen her understanding of Filipino culture and strengthen her advocacy for education.
“Sobrang prepared po tayo. Plantsado lahat,” she assured.
Esguerra also shared that she was fortunate to receive guidance and advice from her favorite Miss International titleholder, Bea Rose Santiago, the Philippines’ 2013 winner.
“She taught me a lot of things that I can use for my Miss International journey,” Esguerra revealed. “She’s such a sweet person, and she’s willing to share all her knowledge and experience. And for that, I’m so grateful to her.”
Aside from Santiago, she also received heartfelt support from Miss International 2005 Precious Lara Quigaman.
On Facebook, Esguerra shared a video message from Quigaman, who expressed her full confidence in the young candidate.
“I’m really so excited for you as you represent our country in Miss International. This is going to be such a meaningful and beautiful journey for you, and I know how much heart and preparation you have poured into this moment,” Quigaman said.
“I will be praying and cheering for you every step of the way. Mabuhay ka, God bless you. Now please, Myrna, bring our crown back.”
Her goal: the Philippines’ 7th Miss International crown
While Esguerra aims to secure the country’s 7th Miss International title, she said her deeper mission is to make Filipinos proud and to bring the essence of Filipino culture and values to the global stage.
“I’m not going to make any promises, but the thing I’m going to say is I’m going to Japan with my most authentic self and a genuine heart and intentions,” she said.
Esguerra is now in Tokyo for the Miss International 2025 pageant, where the coronation is set for November 27 and reigning queen Huynh Thi Thanh Thuy of Vietnam will pass on her crown.
I have imagined this moment in my head more than a hundred times,” she said. “So now, I can’t wait to go there and to shout, ‘Philippines!
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