Former Miss International Precious Lara Quigaman expressed her full support for Myrna Esguerra, who will represent the Philippines at the upcoming Miss International pageant, describing her journey as “truly inspiring.”
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Lara, who won the Miss International crown for the Philippines in 2005, reflected on her own path to the global stage.
“Twenty years ago, I walked onto the Miss International stage with no money, no connections, no PR team — just hard work, faith, and the belief that when a pageant is fair, everyone truly has a chance. I had the quiet support of my friends, my family, and Bb. Pilipinas, and in Miss International — an organization that let’s women compete on equal ground — merit and character were enough. No politics, no noise… just a crown that had to be earned,” Lara said.
Reflecting on her journey, Myrna shared her thoughts as she prepared to compete on the global stage tomorrow, November 27.
“Looking back at this incredible journey, I feel nothing but gratitude. Thank you for walking every step with me. Now, with just two days to go, it’s time to focus, breathe, and give the performance of a lifetime. Para sa Pilipinas,” Myrna said.
The Philippines has a proud history in Miss International, having won the crown six times:
- Gemma Cruz (1964) – the first Filipina to win Miss International
- Aurora Pijuan (1970)
- Melanie Marquez (1979)
- Lara (2005)
- Bea Rose Santiago (2013)
- Kylie Verzosa (2016)
With Esguerra’s participation, the country hopes to secure its 7th Miss International crown, continuing its strong legacy in the pageant.
Lara urged Filipinos to rally behind Myrna as she competes on the world stage:
“Tomorrow, as she competes for Miss International, let’s cheer her on, pray for her, and believe with her as she fights to bring home our 7th Miss International crown. And let’s turn our eyes toward pageants and organizations we can truly stand behind — the ones worth supporting and celebrating for their integrity and real empowerment,” Lara said.
The public still has a chance to support Myrna.
The 63rd Miss International beauty pageant will take place on Thursday, November 27, live from Tokyo.
READ: Another ‘Myrna’ crowned by Binibining Pilipinas 60 years later
