Czech Republic’s Natalie Puskinova wins crown with climate change answer

Under the shimmering lights of The Cove at Okada Manila, Natalie Puskinova of the Czech Republic was crowned Miss Earth 2025, leading a powerful celebration of environmental advocacy, cultural unity and the 25th anniversary of the world’s premier eco-pageant.

Nearly 80 delegates from around the globe competed in this historic silver-jubilee edition of Miss Earth, themed “The Silver Lining.” The show, streamed live on Facebook and YouTube, brought together viewers from every continent, honoring a quarter century of beauty with purpose — the kind that plants hope as much as it inspires change.

Queen of grace and purpose

Natalie Puskinova’s journey to the crown was marked by intelligence, empathy and authenticity. In the final question round, the four remaining delegates were asked about Bill Gates’ controversial proposal to divert climate-change resources toward combating hunger and disease.

Natalie’s eloquent answer — ending in Filipino — instantly won over the crowd:

“I will not choose which problem deserves more. We are one humanity facing the same challenges, and the only way to move forward is through unity. If we work together, we can fight hunger, heal disease, and protect the planet. Protektahan natin ang kalikasan (Let us protect our environment).”

Her ability to connect with both the judges and the Filipino audience sealed her victory, earning her thunderous applause and admiration from fans worldwide.

Courage born from loss

Earlier in the competition, during the Top 8 round, Natalie reflected on the word “parenthood,” revealing how the death of her father at 16 shaped her worldview:

“Losing my father changed everything. But it also taught me strength — to fight for my dreams, for what is right, and for our future. I stand here for every child who learned courage through loss, and for every person who believes that our world can still heal.”

That vulnerability and conviction showcased the depth of a woman ready to embody Miss Earth’s mission — protecting nature while embracing humanity.

Elemental Court

Completing this year’s circle of elemental queens are:

Miss Earth Air 2025 – Sóldís Ívarsdóttir (Iceland)

Miss Earth Water 2025 – Mu Anh Trinh (Vietnam)

Miss Earth Fire 2025 – Waree Ngamkham (Thailand)

Each of them stood out for their clarity of thought, environmental leadership and their passionate commitment to sustainability and social impact.

Philippines’ Joy Barcoma captures hearts

Representing the host country, Joy Barcoma earned a spot among the competition’s top finalists — continuing the Philippines’ remarkable Miss Earth legacy. The 26-year-old environmental advocate and television host from Bacoor, Cavite, was lauded for her authenticity and activism.

In the question segment, she spoke powerfully about governance and justice:

“No one is above the law. The policies our leaders pass shape the lives of all people. Environmental justice is human justice — every decision must uphold equality and dignity for everyone on Earth.”

Before stepping onto the stage, she paused to offer prayers for victims of the Cebu typhoon — a deeply human gesture that reminded audiences that empathy and leadership often bloom together.

A silver year for a greener future

As fireworks illuminated the Manila skyline, the 25th Miss Earth pageant closed with a powerful message — that the beauty of the Earth lies in its people’s courage to protect it.

Natalie Puskinova now carries the torch of “The Silver Lining,” symbolizing hope, resilience and renewal — a reminder that even in a changing world, there will always be women who rise for the planet, for peace and for a greener tomorrow.