Angelica Lopez reflected on her arduous pageant journey as she prepared for the Miss International 2024 Competition, set to take place in Tokyo, Japan, on Nov. 12.

During a send-off held at the Quantum Skyview of Gateway Mall 2 on Oct. 24, Angelica said she was criticized for her skin color when she won Binibining Pilipinas in 2023.

"When I won in Binibining Pilipinas, I was criticized for my skin color. I was not the prototype of Miss International, as they said," said Angelica.

However, the beauty queen from Palawan stated that the criticisms pushed her to strive for her best.

"This challenged me to do my best, and I wanted to show people that staying true to yourself is very important," she said.

Angelica added: "We have set a standard in our society of what a Miss International should look like. But I want to be different.

"Even if there were pressures up there, these negative voices to do other things, I didn't listen to them because I knew who I was, and I would fight for it until I got to the Miss International stage," she also said.

Angelica, 23, shared that her journey in pageantry has had its highs and lows, but she is supported by a strong network of people.

"It wasn't an easy journey. There was this voice inside my head telling me to give up. But I didn't because this is what I want to do. This is my lifelong dream and goal. 

"I am not doing this for myself but for the people around me and the glory of God. With that, I was able to fight for everything. I want to find ways to be productive every single day. It's not an easy journey, but I will fight for my dream because I know it will be worthwhile, said Angelica, adding that she's ready to represent the Philippines on the international stage.

"I want to show the Filipino people that my hard work, effort, love, and support for me will not go in vain because I will be there for it. I will make sure that I will carry every one of you in this fight.

"But at the end of the day, God has the final say. That's why I want to offer everything to God because I know with God, nothing is impossible. Sometimes, we think it's impossible to achieve. But when God works, everything is achievable," she said.

Angelica mentioned she's proud of what the Philippines can offer on the international stage.

"The Philippines is rich with values like virtues and morals that we can share with others. We are also rich in our culture and heritage.

"When I get to Miss International, I want them to know that Filipinos are welcoming and friendly.

"People come back because of how we treat people around us. I want to bring that aspect to Miss International because building friendships is essential to our well-being," Angelica said.

Angelica recalled her humble beginnings when she started working at a young age.

"Coming from humble beginnings, I had to work early and hard at 14. It opened my mind that I am not privileged enough.

"We lacked resources, but I had the initiative to help my family. So I told myself, 'Okay, I'll go out there and work. I want to be resourceful and independent as well. I want to thank my mom and dad, who helped me develop skills and values I still use.

"I also want to share this with young women struggling because it's difficult. So, I listened to my mentors and joined organizations because I would grow more and achieve my goals through this," the beauty queen said.

Angelica serves as a role model of resilience and determination. The breadwinner of her family, she balances modeling and other endeavors to support her loved ones after the death of her mother.

A self-made woman and certified "raketera," Angelica possesses a life story that resonates deeply with those who have faced financial struggles and draws upon her experiences to inspire marginalized children to dream big and break free from the cycle of poverty.

Angelica advocates for the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), mainly focusing on empowering children to reach their full potential through education and support. Her passion and commitment reflect her desire to uplift others and create lasting change.