Miss Universe 2021 Harnaaz Sandhu visited the province of Ilocos Sur where she had a great time walking through the cobblestoned streets of Calle Crisologo in Vigan, playing with animals at Safari Hotel and greeting the townsfolk of Narvacan.
The Miss Universe from India was accompanied to Ilocos Sur by the President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines and Narvacan City Mayor Luis 'Chavit' Singson and his daughter, Architect Richelle Singson-Michael, vice-chairperson of the family-owned LCS Group and host committee chairperson of the 65th Miss Universe.
During her visit, Ms. Sandhu paid a courtesy call to Ilocos Sur Gov. Ryan Luis Singson. Afterwards, she and her group had lunch at a restaurant in Calle Crisologo where she sampled some local dishes.
The beauty queen also had a great time at the Safari Hotel where she fed giraffes, patted a leopard, and perched a bear cat on her shoulders. She also saw a python, an albino snake, a couple of macaw birds, iguanas, and a black panther.
She said she loves animals but is "sometimes scared of them. This is an experience I will never forget. "
"Am just trying to control my feelings because I love, love animals and this is my moment. This whole place is insane. They're taking care of the wildlife and at the same time you can enjoy them and stay connected," the Indian beauty stated.
Ms. Singson-Michael, who is also running as nominee of Ilokano Ako party list, remarked: "It is so refreshing for us to showcase what our beloved province has to offer to an international ambassador of goodwill like Harnaaz. It is our pride and joy as Ilocanos to have been graced by her empowering presence."
The Singsons brought Miss Universe 2021 to the local public market where she witnessed the launch of the Narvacan app which would enable cashless payments between buyers and sellers.
The Miss Universe entourage were billetted at Singson's Greek-themed mansion in Suvec with scenic views of the sea. Sandhu was served a vegetarian dinner by an Indian chef. She was also seen joining the night's band in singing Justin Bieber's 'Baby.'
Miss Universe 2021 said her visit to Ilocos Sur is one highlight of her trip to the Philippines.
"It was really a wonderful experience. But more than the place, it was about the beautiful people. I was glad to see the welcoming smiles of the Ilocanos which warmed my heart and left me with a memory that I will treasure forever," she said.