Cebu City beaut Beatrice Luigi Gomez was crowned Thursday, September 26, as this year's Miss Universe Philippines but did you know that aside from gowns and heels, she also dons fatigue and boots?
The 26-year-old beauty queen underwent basic citizens military course training in Eastern Visayas in January 2021 and finished the class to be a reservist of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) with a rank of Corporal.
Commander James Francis Lugtu, of the Naval Reserve Center in Eastern Visayas, congratulated Gomez for her recent feat in the Miss Universe Philippines.
"She is the epitome of beauty and grace and patriotism. We join the Filipino people in wishing her success as she represents the country in the Miss Universe pageant in Israel in December," Lugtu said.
Photos from the Naval Reserve Center in Eastern Visayas showed Gomez during her training days as a Marine reservist. In one photo, she is seen handling a rifle while wearing a fatigue uniform.
She had also engaged in community development activities such as the turnover of family food packs to those who are in need.
In an Instagram post last May 8, Gomez said she was "stoked" when she met the "courageous, strong men" of the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) or the Philippine Navy SEALs.
"Bravo Zulu to our Philippine Navy reservist, Corporal Beatrice Luigi Gomez, the newly crowned Muss Universe Philippines 2021!" said the Naval Reserve Center Eastern Visayas.
"Your family in the Philippine Navy and Naval Reserve Command is pleased to see you inch closer to your dreams! Your dedication and passion are reminders that diligent work pays off!" it added.
Gomez will represent the Philippines in the 70th edition of the Miss Universe pageant in Israel this December.