LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Pangasinan provincial government on Monday held a homecoming celebration at the Sison Auditorium here for Nikki Buenafe who won the Miss Multinational title during the Miss World Philippines held in Pasay City on July 19.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan has approved Resolution No. 704-2024 congratulating Buenafe for her win, a first for the province.
“I am excited to showcase the beautiful culture of the Philippines and of Pangasinan on the international stage. Once they see it, I am sure they will love it,” Buenafe said during the event.
She will vie for the international title in India in December.
Buenafe’s advocacy, which is in line with the “beauty with a purpose” theme of the local pageant Limgas na Pangasinan, is to provide basic needs like potable water to underprivileged communities.
Buenafe said she has been working with non-government organizations even during the competition.
“So I hope I can inspire organizations, fellow citizens, and corporations to make investments when it comes to basic needs. There are barangays (villages) that lack the basic needs,” she said.
The beneficiary in her advocacy was a far-flung community in her hometown, Binmaley, where a deep well was installed.
Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III said in an interview that Buenafe’s achievement will also help spread the word about the province’s various destinations.
“We are so proud that a Pangasinense will represent the country in the international stage,” Guico said.
He noted that Buenafe’s videos and other promotional materials showcased the culture, tradition, beautiful tourist spots and even the culinary delights of Pangasinan.
Maan Tuazon-Guico, chairperson of the executive committee of the provincial government’s beauty pageant, said through her title and responsibilities, Buenafe can shine the spotlight on our Pangasinan’s unique charm and traditions.
“From the bottom of my heart, I express my deepest gratitude to Nikki for representing Pangasinan and bringing home the crown as Miss Multinational Philippines 2024,” she said in her speech.
She expressed hope that Pangasinan will continue to produce more beauty queens and vowed the provincial government will support Buenafe. (PNA)
