Philippine Consul General Senen Mangalile is flanked by the contestants of the inaugural Reina Filipina North America pageant, which will be held on Jan. 25 at Palladium Times Square. CONTRIBUTED
NEW YORK — The spotlight is set to shine on these Filipino American women as they take center stage in the much-anticipated Reina Filipina North America pageant, rescheduled for Jan. 25 at New York’s Palladium Times Square.
This groundbreaking event, founded by renowned dermatologist and former beauty queen Dr. Alicia Almendral, promises to elevate the voices of Filipina Americans while offering a chance to compete for a spot in Miss Universe Philippines 2025.
The winner will not only receive a coveted prize package that includes a round-trip ticket to the Philippines, a five-night stay at the luxurious Winford Hotel and Casino, three nights at Hilton Grand Vacations in Las Vegas and a $3,000 cash prize, but will also join a movement dedicated to celebrating Filipino heritage and promoting excellence on an international stage.
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As the excitement builds for tomorrow’s event, this columnist invites you to learn more about the inspiring contestants below.
This pageant aims to empower women of Filipino descent across North America by showcasing beauty, talent, intelligence and advocacy, providing a platform for participants to share their stories and aspirations.
Amanda Salvador Russo balances her studies at Pennsylvania State University with a job as a desk monitor at her university gym to support her family. This 20-year-old finance major joined the Reina Filipina pageant for the sense of community and pride it fosters among Filipina Americans. Passionate about advocating for the elderly, particularly those in Bahay Pag-Ibig, she aspires to raise awareness and create a foundation to provide essential needs for them. With deep-rooted Filipino values of hard work, kindness and determination, Amanda aims to inspire future generations while proudly showcasing her culture. She believes in the power of beauty pageants as platforms for empowerment and uses her journey to promote inclusivity and diversity.What is the relevance of Reina Filipina in today’s society?
“Reina Filipina serves as a pathway for strong Filipina American women to showcase their skills, values and goals. It allows us to use our voices on a larger platform to create the changes we want to see in society while standing as role models for the youth.”
Angelica Joan Sison Mellomida, a 29-year-old Consumer Research Scientist at L’Oreal USA from New Jersey, is eager to explore her place in the vibrant world of pageantry. Embracing her Filipino values of respect, tradition and kindness, Angelica aims to inspire others to believe in their potential and showcase the rich culture of the Philippines. Dedicated to promoting inclusivity and diversity, she uses her platform to celebrate her heritage while supporting the LGBTQ+ community and fostering connections between Filipinos in America and their roots.Why should the judges pick you to be the winner of Reina Filipina? What do you think is your edge over the other contestants?
“It would be an indescribable honor to be crowned the first-ever Miss Reina Filipina and represent Filipina Americans on a global stage. I have an important message to share: always believe in yourselves! You are capable of incredible things.”
Cassandra Reed passionately embraces her Filipino heritage while navigating her identity as a Filipino American. Having spent her formative years in Cebu before moving to New York City at 17, Cassandra brings a unique perspective to the Reina Filipina pageant. This 21-year-old student’s mission is to inspire others to take pride in their roots while advocating for human rights and fostering compassion within diverse communities. Through her platform, she aims to bridge cultural gaps and promote understanding between the Philippines and America, highlighting the resilience of the Filipino people.Government debt in these countries, which are home to around 40 percent of the world’s population, now stands at an average of 72 percent of GDP – an 18-year high – the Washington-based development lender said.
pragmatic123 slotWhat makes you Filipino?
“Being Filipino is deeply rooted in our values, traditions and experiences. It means embracing warmth, hospitality, resilience and unwavering strength in adversity. It’s a proud way of life that I carry with me.”
Julian del Rosario, a 35-year-old entrepreneur and mother of two, embraces the Reina Filipina pageant as a platform to inspire women to reinvent themselves and pursue their passions. As the first mother to compete, she aims to redefine beauty standards and showcase the strength and resilience that define Filipino values. Julian believes that motherhood is not a limitation but a new beginning, and she is dedicated to sharing the rich heritage and traditions of the Filipino people.Why do you think people should continue to support beauty pageants?
“Supporting beauty pageants means recognizing that they create meaningful experiences and raise awareness about women’s rights. It’s about making a positive change beyond just glamour.”
Melanie Grace Escamilla Stokes, a 20-year-old sophomore at Queens College, aspires to become a registered nurse. Joining the Reina Filipina North America pageant, Melanie aims to empower young women and raise awareness about critical issues like human trafficking. Her commitment to advocacy and cultural appreciation reflects her desire to inspire others while celebrating her community’s rich traditions.What made you join the Reina Filipina pageant?
“Joining the Reina Filipina North America pageant was a deeply personal decision. I wanted to celebrate my Filipino heritage and advocate for meaningful causes. This pageant emphasizes beauty, intelligence and purpose, aligning with my values.”
Pauline Rowebelle Magracia del Mundo is a New Jersey native with a background in singing and acting. After winning 1st Runner Up in her first competition in 2024, she was inspired to enter pageantry. This 33-year-old Global Director for Social Media and Content at IT Cosmetics is passionate about empowering Filipino American women and aims to celebrate her heritage while educating others about Filipino culture.What are you hoping to achieve from joining the Filipino pageant?
“I want to encourage Filipino American women to take pride in their roots. Being Filipino means celebrating our heritage and educating others about it.”
Valerie West recently graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in biomedical engineering. Passionately pursuing her Filipino heritage through the Reina Filipina pageant, Valerie embraces her Ifugao roots and expresses her creativity by designing her National Costume with her mother. During her gap year before medical school, she aims to promote health, wellness and community service through her work with The PUSO Foundation. Valerie believes beauty pageants provide a platform for candidates to demonstrate poise and address critical issues, helping her grow from an introvert into a confident advocate for her Filipino and American identities.If you win the pageant, how would you use your title to promote the Philippines in America?
“This pageant showcases the beauty of Filipino American women. If crowned, I would collaborate with consulate generals on community projects to spread cultural awareness and support young Filipino talents. My legacy project would promote service work among the youth, highlighting their unique talents and fostering pride in our Filipino heritage.”
Hosted by Alain Echem, the event will feature a serenade by ‘Fil-Am Prince of Pop’ Garth Garcia from Los Angeles. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster. For more details, visit the official pageant website.
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