The 29 Miss Philippines-Earth candidates thanked Borongan City for their hospitality during their five-day visit for their beachwear competition this week.
MISS Earth-Philippines candidates ride a carabao sled during their visit to Borongan City. (Photo via Marie Marticio)
Ira Patricia Malaluan from Batangas City said that Borongan inspires her because they can harmonize their agricultural projects with environmental protection.
"It was just really fun. What we can do is to make Borongan known, how they implement their rules, and how they love the environment," she said.
Ansha Lichelle Jones from Zamboanga City said that she appreciates the souvenirs and tokens that she received in Borongan since she is a sentimental person, aside from their memorable experiences during their visits to the communities.
"The moment that we have set foot in this city, we saw how they have prepared. We are just so grateful for everything that they have given us here," she said.
She also lauded the honesty and kindness of the people who are welcoming wherever they go.
Before the competition was held at Baybay Boulevard here, the candidates visited the islands of Ando Divinubo, where they experienced scuba diving and underwent basic rescue training through the Borongan City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
They also went to Hebacong Sea of Clouds, an emerging tourist destination in Barangay San Mateo, where they had a reading and storytelling session with the elementary students.
People prepared customized floats called "kanggas" pulled by carabaos for the candidates to ride on during the parade to the San Mateo Elementary School.
They learned bamboo potting through the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) and coco coir weaving that promotes sustainable practices.