Valerie West, a vibrant 22-year-old freshly minted EMT from the bustling streets of New York, has embarked on an exhilarating journey that seems straight out of a fairy tale. 

With determination coursing through her veins, she now proudly represents the picturesque Ifugao region in the prestigious Miss Universe Philippines pageant. 

Her story is one of passion and resilience. She balances the demanding life of an emergency medical technician with the glitz and glamour of pageantry, captivating everyone with her spirit and strength.

Valeria has her advocacy through the PUSO Foundation, founded by Robert Banez in 2017. Through various platforms, the foundation has the "purposeful unconditional service to others” in underserved communities in seven countries. 

“Through my partnership with PUSO, I spread the message of ‘paying it forward,’ and advocate for the importance of service work, especially amongst younger individuals. Through small and large acts of kindness and involvement in one's community, kindness multiplies, and lives can be changed globally. The message is simple: Give a little, change a lot!”

During a recent interview with entertainment media in Quezon City, Valerie enthusiastically answered questions related to pageants, her celebrity crush, and even politics.

Three things you will bring to a deserted island?

"I have to bring sunscreen. I am half-American, and I burn easily. I learned that lesson in Northern Samar and Boracay so that I will bring sunscreen. Second, I need first aid. I need to be prepared. Third, I'll get a firestarter because how will I survive without one?"

A moment in time you want to revisit?

"I would go back to the beginning of the pandemic. That's a weird answer because the world shut down on my 18th birthday that weekend. I was in a weird place because I was graduating that year. I was looking at a lot of things. And it was easy for many people to understand that the world was ending. But, there were many opportunities during the pandemic to explore and develop yourself. I will go back to that time and have a different mindset and be more positive about the future because many things are around the corner, especially If I knew I was competing in Miss Universe Philippines now, I think I would have been more positive and excited about what I could do in my free time leading up to the pageant."

The sexiest man alive?

"This one's hard. My first Filipino celebrity crush was Daniel Padilla. I'll say that for now. But there are many sexy men and women alive."

What is your message to President Marcos?

"You need to be a representation of your people. Listen. Any leader should be able to listen to the ones in need of the people they represent. So I recommend your genuine leader be an open and honest leader and a true representation of your people."

Famous person she wishes to help?

"This one is hard. None come to mind, but I think as a pageant queen, a leader in the community, or anybody famous or not who needs help and inspiration, I am willing to lend an ear. I am willing to help in any way I can to benefit and boost society."