Would it be ‘third time lucky’ for Miss World Philippines 2018 Katarina Rodriguez when she vies for the Miss World crown at the 68th edition of the prestigious pageant?
Rodriguez, who left for Sanya, China for the month-long competition, has an impressive resume when it comes to her beauty pageant stint. In 2014, she finished as second runner-up in Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 2, and in 2017, she was named first runner-up in Miss Intercontinental in Hurghada, Egypt.
The 26-year-old Davaoeño model and Business Management and Philosophy degree holder from De La Salle University will compete against 120 delegates coming from the four corners of the world to try to capture the country’s second Miss World title.
“I am excited to compete and I want to thank all of you for your support. The big part of being a beauty queen is the honor and challenge of carrying your national flag and represent your countrymen. So I really have to bring my best foot forward and showcase the best version of myself and my country,” Rodriguez said during her send-off held recently.
The send-off party, which was held in a restaurant in Quezon City, was attended by Miss Eco-International Philippines 2018 Maureen Montagne, Miss Multinational Philippines 2018 Kimi Mugford and Miss World Philippines 2018 1st Princess Chanel Morales together with Miss World Philippines national director Arnold Vegafria and General Manager Bessie Besana.
“Being crowned Miss World Philippines was for me ‘a coming of age mark’ for being a woman,” added the HIV-AIDS awareness advocate, who is being likened to ‘Quantico’ star Priyanka Chopra who won Miss World in 2000.
“Katarina has the poise and regal bearing of a winning queen. She’s a woman of substance and it shows the minute she talks about her passion and advocacies,” Vegafria said.
Reigning Miss World Manushi Chhillar from India, a recent visitor in Manila will crown her successor on Dec. 8. Catch the live telecast of Miss World 2018 on GMA 7.
