Mrs. Universe California 2025 Czarina Umali

Mrs. Universe California 2025 Czarina Umali became emotional as she spoke about her mother, who is currently undergoing chemotherapy and fighting cancer.

During an intimate interview at the Kingsford Hotel, Czarina's voice quivered with emotion as she spoke about her mother, Belinda. Tears glistened in her eyes as she described the moment her mother would arrive in Manila, filled with anticipation and excitement, to cheer her on in the prestigious beauty pageant. 

"Nag che-chemotherapy pa siya, and she's flying here. I hope you are proud of me. I want to become a great mother, even half as good as you are. Kung kaya kong tumbasan kahit kalahati lang, I've done my job. I love my mom. (She's still undergoing chemotherapy, and she's flying here. I hope you are proud of me. I want to become a great mother, even half as good as you are. If I can repay even half of it, I've done my job. I love my mom)," said Czarina as she got emotional during an interview.

Czarina said what worries her is that her aunt also passed on due to breast cancer. "I know breast cancer is treatable, but for some of us, it is still very scary."

Her Christmas wish is for her mom to become healthy again so that we can continue with their traditional family festivities. 

"I realized that health is wealth. My Christmas wish is for my mom and loved ones to remain healthy," she said.

Czarina enthusiastically shared her journey of preparation for the competition, driven by a passionate desire to uplift and inspire other women through the empowering world of pageantry.

"I have prepared for this pageant, not just for the moment, but also for the responsibility. I have partnered with organizations, including Breast Cancer Angels for breast cancer advocacy and Ashes to Diamonds for domestic violence awareness. 

"Also, I want to utilize the influence I already have, which is singing and dancing with the Mrs. Universe platform, to smooth my trajectory so that I can reach as many women as possible. You cannot put me in a box, and that's what makes me relatable to anyone, regardless of age," she said.

Czarina expressed that pageantry serves as a vibrant and empowering platform where women can wholeheartedly pursue their passions with confidence and enthusiasm. Through the dazzling displays and spirited competitions, they find a space to showcase their talents and aspirations, turning their dreams into reality.

"Not everyone has the capacity to compete when they are young. In pageantry, we promote advocacy and beauty from the inside. Should it not expire just because you reach 25? 27? 

"If you have an advocacy and are passionate about it, then you should get a broader platform and reach as many women as possible. After all, these young women will become us. That's why the Mrs. Universe pageant remains relevant," she said.

At the age of 11, Czarina and her family moved to the US. Despite staying abroad, she never lost her mother tongue. "I am a proud Mangyan, and I love my culture and heritage. I really try my best not to lose my mother tongue. I've been in the US for 30 years. I am married to a Chinese-American, and we have three children."

Czarina recalled that her parents were initially worried about her interracial marriage, but she managed to win them over, seemingly due to her cooking skills. She described the special moments she shares with her husband and emphasized the importance of taking time to care for herself.

"My husband and I go to the gym a lot. That's our bonding. But our life in the US is not that easy. In Manila, if you have the budget, you can hire a nanny. However, on a regular day in the US, I clean the house or cook for the family. Personally, I attend dance classes and accept singing gigs to ignite the passion within me. That's how I prioritize my alone time."

Czarina shared a message with her young self. "To the younger Czarina, my message to you is that you're doing a great job. Don't ever change yourself. As long as you are grounded in your morals and have the support of your family behind you, then do not be easily swayed by outside influences. The best is yet to come, and we are doing so great right now."

Born to a family from Oriental Mindoro and now based in California, Czarina has built a multifaceted career. She is a licensed realtor, a professional singer, dancer, and model whose artistry and discipline shine on every stage she graces. 

Her passion for performing led her to become a finalist at Discovery USA 2022, a prestigious singing competition that showcased her vocal talent on a national stage. 

She has also served as an opening act for some of the most celebrated Filipino artists in Southern California, including Nina, Garth Garcia, Jay-R, Jed Madela, Jaya, and Lani Misalucha.