IT IS HEARTENING to see how a beauty pageant has become a driving force in raising awareness about environmental issues that affect us all.
Through the initiative of the Philippines’ foremost environmentalist Sen. Loren Legarda, Miss Philippines Earth 2023 delegates visited the beautiful Antique for two amazing days (April 22 and 23) promoting environmental preservation and protection while at the same time discovering the province’s rich historical and cultural landmarks.
“I am thrilled to align myself with Miss Philippines Earth’s commitment to environmental conservation,” said Legarda, the Senate President Pro Tempore, as she led Antiqueños give the visiting beauties a warm welcome.
Miss Philippines Earth is the country’s premier beauty pageant with environmental advocacy – perfectly aligned with the Antiqueña senator’s purposeful campaign for sustainable practices to protect and preserve Mother Earth for the benefit of all.
The lovely eco-warriors explored Antique’s Old Capitol and the Balay nga Bato, which showcase the traditional architecture and culture of the proud province. Both were restored through the initiatives of Senator Legarda, a true champion of sustainability.
They also visited various local industries, such as the University of Antique’s Bamboo Processing Center and Brickmaking facility and Tindahang Lokal located at the Old Capitol building, where they found authentic and locally-made products, like Antique’s famous patadyong clothing and accessories. Also at the Tindahang Lokal, MSME (micro, small and medium enterprise) products showcased there were assisted by Senator Legarda when she was Antique’s congresswoman.
To cap off the day, these crusaders for a greener future witnessed the stunning sunset at the Antique Esplanade, a project close to Senator Legarda’s heart as she also loves chasing sunsets.
feature Antique’s patadyong garments and accessories
Antique is one of the environmental partners for the Miss Philippines Earth 2020Tree, and will serve as a fitting venue for a segment of this year’s pageant on April 29, 2023 with the theme “ME loves 2020TREE”.
Trees play a crucial role in mitigating climate change, and Miss Philippines Earth seeks to remind everyone of the power and value of trees in the fight against environmental degradation. Truly, this is a timely reminder of our responsibility to care for and protect the environment.
The two-day visit of the delegates – which was realized in coordination with Antique’s Cong. AA Legarda – surely inspired Antiqueños and Filipinos to take action towards environmental conservation. The goal, according to Senator Legarda, is to bring positive change to the environment toward creating a resilient nation for a better, healthier and sustainable future.
Indeed, let us work hand in hand toward a more beautiful and greener future./PN
