Miss Eco International 2022

Kathleen Paton's triumphal return

By Earl D.C. Bracamonte

Newly-crowned Miss Eco International 2022 Kathleen Paton flew back to Manila after a victorious stint in Luxor, Egypt. The Fil-Aussie beauty from Nabas, Aklan is the country's second titleholder, after Cynthia Thomalla's victory in 2018.

"I told you from the beginning that you're gonna bring home the crown, and you did! This is the Philippines' second Eco International crown. Our congratulations to Kathleen! The years 2020-2021 were tough for the pageant business, and we're starting to bounce back," enthused MWP national director, holder of the Eco International national franchise, during an intimate media reception at the Okada Manila grand ballroom. He also informed attendees that the hotel will be the official events venue of the forthcoming pre-pageant activities of the 2022 pageant season.

When asked why she was not wearing her crown, Kathleen said that it was still in the Netherlands, being recalibrated to fit her. "I really want to bring home the crown with me but it does not fit my head. So, I'll be going back to Egypt to retrieve it, as well as accept my passport as UN ambassador, and pursue further my advocacy on mental health awareness and clean water supply for Filipinos - especially after typhoons.

"I am affiliated with 100 For All, a New York-based organization fighting water pollution. They will be visiting the Philippines this April and will hand out filtration systems to communities in Cebu," shared Kathleen.

The Miss Eco International organization espouses environmental awareness and tourism, aside from being a partner of the United Nations with its green agenda.

"It's been three weeks since I left for Egypt. From the start of the competition, I gave my 110% best! It was a lot of pressure but I made it. This crown carries a bigger platform than what people perceive it to be. 

"A Miss Eco International titleholder is being authentically you. One can inspire people without even saying a world. After my duties with the crown, I plan to join showbusiness, do modelling work, and travel around the Philippines to continue my advocacy, as well as spreading eco awareness," intoned Kath at the close of the confab.

The Miss World-Philippines 2022 will formally open its pageant season on April 19 and has scheduled its coronation night on June 5, 2022 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Stay tuned!