EVEN if she failed to score a back-to-back win for the Philippines in the Miss International pageant, Maria Angelica “Mariel” de Leon still
considers her experience as “wonderful and unforgettable.”
In an Instagram post yesterday, De Leon said, “To represent the Philippines on an International stage with 69 other women was something I never thought would be possible for me before! What a feat.”
“Thank you Lord for this wonderful and unforgettable experience! As tiring and taxing as it was at times, I enjoyed every moment and I will keep it in my heart forever,” as read part of her Instagram post.
De Leon also thanked her family, supporters for the love and mentors for guiding her.
De Leon is under the management of Aces and Queens, the same training camp of Miss International 2016 Kylie Versoza.
“I’m so proud of how far I’ve become, how hard I fought and how much I grew and transformed! Strong, empowered, and brave is the new sexy. I still have my Miss International Philippines crown and now I can push my limits even more as to what else I can achieve and give it to my fellow Filipinos,” she said.
De Leon did not make it to the Top 15, the first cut of the Miss International 2017 competition. She is the daughter of celebrity couple Christopher and Sandy de Leon.
