Miss Philippines Bea Rose Santiago wins Miss International title
Miss Philippines Bea Rose Santiago took home the crown in the 53rd Miss International pageant, held at the Shinagawa Prince Hotel Hall in Tokyo, Japan on Tuesday, December 17.
Miss International 2008 Alejandra Andreu crowned Bea Rose, who bested 66 other delegates from around the world.
Bea Rose impressed the judges during the Q&A portion where she said she wants to "sustain the spirit of sympathy and hope," when asked about what she would do if she wins the crown.
Before Bea left for Japan, she told the press that she is dedicating the competition to the survivors of typhoon Yolanda.
"I'm dedicating my pageant for the Haiyan or Yolanda victims. I'm not going there just as Bea Santiago, but as Miss Philippines. If I win or if I make it, that would bring happiness to them and make them proud,” Bea previously said.
Miss Netherlands Nathelie Den Dekker was crowned first runner-up, while Miss New Zealand Casey Radley was declared second runner-up. Miss Colombia Lorena Hermida and Miss Hungary Brigitta Otvos were included in the Top 5.
This is the fifth time that the Philippines has won the Miss International title. Past winners include Precious Lara Quigaman, Gemma Cruz-Araneta, Melanie Marquez, and Aurora Pijuan.
Miss International beauty pageant aims to promote goodwill and cultural understanding globally. According to its official website, Miss International raises funds for UNICEF, as part of their campaign.
