38 Miss Universe PH bets in Eastern Visayas for 5-day tour

THE 38 candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2023 traveled to Eastern Visayas to experience the region's "Infinite Escapes" and stage the National Costume competition.

“This competition, although non-points bearing event, is the most anticipated portion by pageant enthusiasts. The Miss Universe Philippines will determine our next crowned queen who will represent our country on the world stage. We are all excited because the Miss Universe title has been held by many Filipino citizens,” said House Speaker and Leyte First District Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.

The House Speaker, together with Tingog Partylist Representatives Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre, has partnered with the Miss Universe Philippines organizers for the visit in the region from May 1 to 5.

“This is also an opportunity to show the country and the whole world the beauty and wonders that Eastern Visayas can offer. It has been 10 years since Yolanda leveled our region. Pero dahil sa pagsisikap at pagpupunyagi ng mga Waraynons, nakabangon kami at nakausad pa mula sa trahedya,” said Tingog Representative Romualdez, who is also a former Binibining Pilipinas International 1996 title holder.

The candidates will experience the tourism sites, cuisine, crafts, talents, culture, and heritage in Tacloban, Samar, and Leyte province.

"We are honored and excited that you have included during your tour the Leyte Province and its many enthralling destinations...Indeed, we are thrilled to showcase our warm brand of hospitality, and the unique and diverse culture of our people and places, particularly during the shoot of the pageant's National Costume at a rice farm in Barangay San Isidro, Sta. Fe, Leyte," said Frances Ann Petilla, former Palo mayor and now Leyte tourism consultant.

Jescyn Cate Ramos, head of the Leyte Tourism and Promotions Office, lauded the organizers while wishing the candidates to have an "enjoyable and unforgettable experience."

Department of Tourism (DOT)-Eastern Visayas Director Karen Tiopes said that having the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 National Costume Competition in Eastern Visayas "has firmed up the market positioning of Eastern Visayas as an events destination."

"And beyond that, the activities of the 38 candidates in different tourism sites in Eastern Visayas will gain for us the needed promotional mileage, nationally and internationally," she added. (SunStar Philippines)