Philippine bet Nicole Borromeo is enchanting in her official photo as the country's official delegate to Miss International 2023.
On 18 September, Miss International posted Borromeo's official photo, along with the inspiring story of her journey toward the international competition.
"I wholeheartedly embraced the role of Carcar City's lead dancer for the Sinulog Festival. This path ultimately led me to be crowned the Sinulog Festival Queen of 2019, an achievement that forever reshaped my view of Filipino tradition," she wrote.
"My commitment to mastering graceful movements, amidst the relentless demands of both physical and academic pursuits, took me to my breaking point," she recalled. "Dancing along the festival's vibrant streets for an arduous eight-hour procession, surrounded by elaborate floats and donning an 11-kilogram ensemble, tested my endurance to the fullest."
Still she pulled through, and "This triumph epitomized devotion, showcasing the profound connection between people, culture, and faith — a connection I carry with me to the Miss International pageant, infused with the same passion, commitment, and purpose." said the 22-year-old host and beauty queen.
As of writing, her profile has garnered over 41,000 likes and 3,000 shares.
Following the release of her official photo, Borromeo thanked all her supporters in a heartfelt post on Instagram.
"Overflowing with gratitude seeing all the incredible support I've received since the release of my official Miss International headshot, your unwavering love has touched my heart deeply!! Thank you for standing by my side on this remarkable journey," she wrote.
Filipino pageant enthusiasts have the opportunity to send their love and support to the beauty queen as Binibining Pilipinas has announced her official send-off on 27 September at the Gateway Mall 2 Quantum Skyview at 4 p.m. The send-off can also be viewed virtually through the organizations' official YouTube Channel.
Since the beginning of the Miss International pageant in 1960, the Philippines has brought home six crowns. Gemma Cruz was the first Filipino and Asian to win the title in 1964, followed by Aurora Pijuan in 1970, Mimilanie Marquez in 1979, Lara Quigaman in 2005, Bea Rose Santiago in 2013 and Kylie Versoza in 2016.
Borromeo is all fired up to bring home the country's seventh Miss International crown. Her predecessor, Hannah Arnold, finished in the top 15.
The coronation night for Miss International 2023 will be on 26 October in Tokyo, Japan.