Winners of the Reina Filipina North America (from left): 1st runner-up Pauline del Mundo (New Jersey), Reina Filipina Valerie West (New York) and 2nd runner-up Amanda Russo (Connecticut). Photo by Elton Lugay
slots bonusNEW YORK — “As a generation that focuses a lot of time and promotion towards social media, I’d say that social media is not necessarily a bad thing. Technology is not a bad thing,” Valerie West passionately stated during the interview competition of the inaugural Reina Filipina North America pageant Saturday night.
Her insightful response on social media responsibility resonated with both the judges and the audience, ultimately leading her to win the coveted crown at the Palladium Times Square.
The night was a captivating spectacle as the contestants underwent a grueling three-hour competition, showcasing their talents in national costume, swimsuit, long gown and onstage interviews.
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Second runner-up Amanda Russo competes in the long gown segment of the Reina Filipina pageant. Photo by Elton Lugay
First runner-up Pauline del Mundo struts across the stage during the swimsuit segment of the Reina Filipina pageant. Photo by Elton Lugay
Valerie’s performance stood out, earning her the title that will now allow her to represent New York at the Miss Universe Philippines pageant in Manila. If successful there, she will move on to compete in the Miss Universe pageant later this year.
The event was hosted by veteran emcee Alain Echem, who guided the festivities with charm and energy. The candidates were serenaded by Fil-Am Prince of Pop, Garth Garcia, from Los Angeles, adding a special musical touch to the evening.
Fil-Am Prince of Pop Garth Garcia from LA serenades the contestants of the inaugural Reina Filipina pageant, a franchise of Miss Universe Philippines. The winners will represent the tri-state area of New York. Photo by Elton Lugay
Other notable performances included the dynamic Kinding Sindaw and Kim Alcantara with his dance team, Maharlika Dance Troupe, keeping the audience entertained throughout the evening.
ADVERTISEMENTDespite the chilly night, a warm atmosphere filled the venue as friends, family and community leaders gathered to support the contestants.
Dr. Alice Almendral of Monarch Montage and John Baltazar served as the producers of this historic event.
Producers and organizers of the inaugural Reina Filipina pageant (from left): Jeannette Bocobo, Chris Labaco, Dr. Alice Almendral and John Baltazar. Photo by Elton Lugay
In her speech, Dr. Almendral said, “Tonight, we’re not just having a pageant. We’re creating history. This event is more than just a celebration of beauty. It is a platform for empowerment and a moment to showcase the richness of our culture.”
ADVERTISEMENTValerie, a 22-year-old biomedical engineer from New Jersey, attributed her decision to join the Reina Filipina pageant to her deep connection to her heritage.
Inaugural Reina Filipina winner Valerie West proudly wears her Ifugao-inspired national costume, dedicating it as a tribute to her mother’s cultural heritage from the region. Photo by Elton Lugay
“Coming from a Filipina background, a love for pageantry has always been a part of my life,” she told Inquirer.net USA.
After graduating from the University of Delaware, she found the perfect opportunity to dive into this dream during her gap year before medical school.
Her national costume, meticulously designed with her mother to reflect their Ifugao heritage, was a testament to her pride in her cultural roots.
“This effort inspired hours of research and family conversations, and most importantly, a swell of pride in our traditions,” she said.
Proud parents and family friend of Valerie West, winner of Reina Filipina who is proud of her mother’s Ifugao heritage. Photo by Elton Lugay
Throughout the competition, Valerie not only showcased her beauty but also her commitment to personal growth and community service.
She aims to use her title to advocate for Filipino culture in America, working closely with community projects and empowering young Filipino talents. “If chosen, I vow to listen and sincerely hear people’s stories to understand and inspire change,” she asserted.
The Reina Filipina pageant serves as a platform for bridging cultures and fostering unity. Valerie believes it stands as a beacon of grace and awareness in today’s society, emphasizing that pageantry has evolved into an avenue for women to champion causes and gain confidence as leading voices in their communities.
Joining Valerie in her journey are runners-up Pauline del Mundo, who will represent New Jersey in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant, and Amanda Russo, who will represent Connecticut.
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Together, they embody the spirit and aspirations of Filipina women across North America.
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