Filipino pageant enthusiasts are celebrating following the crowning of Bea Millan-Windorski as Miss Universe Philippines. This 24-year-old international pageant veteran triumphed over 49 competitors at the national finals held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Millan-Windorski, who has German-Polish ancestry through her father, is also known for her environmental advocacy. She previously represented the United States at the 2023 Miss Earth pageant, where she was awarded the title of Miss Earth-Water.
After her reign in the U.S., she relocated to her mother's home province of La Union, where she continues her environmental initiatives.
In a recent statement, she expressed her commitment to environmental conservation, stating, "I promise to continue the work I've done for the past 10 years here in the Philippines... to create a greener and more equitable future for our people."
During the pageant's final question round, Millan-Windorski spoke passionately about her love for the Philippines and her desire to serve its people. She emphasized the importance of creating local opportunities to prevent families from being separated due to economic hardships.
Millan-Windorski is prepared to represent the Philippines at the 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico this November. She aspires to be the fifth Filipino woman to win the prestigious crown.
"The Philippines is something and a place that I've been in love with my whole life," she shared.