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MAKATI CITY, Philippines – A Cebu-based host and businesswoman wants to inspire fellow single moms to be strong like her through their participation in a global pageant.
Aida Patana, who finished second at the Mrs. World Philippines 2019 competition held in Paris, France, was chosen to represent the Philippines at the Mrs. Tourism Ambassador Universe 2021 competition in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, in February.
“It’s not too late. I’m happy that we have these ‘Mrs.’ parades to give the opportunity to those who are no longer ‘lost’ to pursue pageantry, ”Patana told a small group of media scribes at the BBQ Break Pureza branch in Sta. Mesa, Manila on December 5.
“We older women have a certain level of confidence and I want to inspire my fellow single mothers to be strong too and reach their goals,” she continued.
Patana has been raising her five children on her own for 14 years, and has not asked her estranged husband for support. She now has four grandchildren who inspire her to keep going,
The national director of the world competition for the Philippines, Rodell Salvador, chose Patana to wear the country’s colors in Malaysia for her determination and innate strength as a woman.
“We don’t go there for sightseeing. We have to send someone who can win and win big, ”Salvador said.
Patana’s predecessor, Myla Villagonzalo-Tsutaici, took home the Mrs. Tourism Ambassador International crown at the inaugural global tilt earlier this year.
“I have my full support behind our next representative,” Japan-based Tsutaichi told Inquirer in an online interview.
This year’s competition will also have a male category, ages 30-50, competing for the title of Master Tourism Ambassador Universe.
Joining Patana as his male counterpart is Gerald Barbacena from Pasig City, who competed in the recent Mister Continental Philippines contest.
Salvador said that before Patana leaves for her international competition, she will undergo an intense training regimen to equip her sufficiently, especially for the question and answer round.
He said Malaysian organizers did not require a two-week quarantine for Patana upon arrival in Kota Kinabalu. They are just waiting for the flights to be open for incoming visitors.
JPV
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