Another strong feat for a Filipina representative on the international stage.
Last Sunday, October 25, Catherine Wardle proudly represented the Philippines at the Miss Teen Universe pageant, which was held in Cambodia.
According to its website, the competition is the “world’s premier international teen beauty pageant, dedicated to discovering and developing the potential of young women aged 14-19 from across the globe.”
Wardle, who had been appointed to the role earlier this year, was able to land a spot in the Top 20 as she bagged the Social Project fast-track award. Eventually, she made it through the sportswear, evening gown, and question-and-answer rounds.
In the end, the 17-year-old was able to finish as this year’s second runner-up.
In a post on her social media page, Catherine expressed her pride in representing the Philippines.
“What an honor it has been to carry The Philippines across my chest on the international stage,” she wrote. “My Miss Teen Universe journey has been one of the most beautiful yet challenging experiences of my life.”
According to her, behind every moment onstage were “countless sacrifices, sleepless nights, tears, and people who gave so much of themselves just to help me live this dream.”
“Looking back, my heart is so full,” she added.
Catherine also said that she is proud of how much she has grown, not just as a queen, but also as a person. The beauty queen also went on to thank people around her who joined in her journey.
“And to everyone who cheered, voted, prayed, and believed in me, maraming salamat po. Your love reached me all the way to Cambodia,” she furthered.
Catherine also said, “I leave with a heart overflowing with gratitude, friendships I will cherish, lessons I will carry for life, and memories that will forever remind me why I fell in love with pageantry.”
“I may have been the one wearing the sash, but there were so many hands and hearts that helped me carry it. Mahal na mahal ko kayo, Pilipinas,” she concluded her post.
Leah Reyes Amores from Cuba emerged as the winner of the said pageant.