Binibining Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra is all set to represent the Philippines in the 63rd Miss International pageant happening on Nov. 27 at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium in Shibuya, Tokyo.
Before departing for Japan, Esguerra bid farewell to her supporters during a send-off event where she expressed her excitement and gratitude for the time she spent preparing for the competition.
“It wasn’t just a waiting time of more than a year — it was a year of preparation,” Esguerra said. “Along the way, I learned to see the beauty in waiting. It’s really all about perspective.”
The 24-year-old beauty queen said her long preparation allowed her to travel across the Philippines where she deepened her advocacy for children and education.
“I am so proud that in one year, my team and I were able to visit the three major islands of the Philippines — from Luzon to Visayas and Mindanao. I met children whose stories reminded me of my own childhood. My journey became even more special because now I have a strong reason for doing this,” she shared.
At the press conference, Esguerra said she never felt impatient despite the long wait for the international competition.
“Honestly, I didn’t get bored,” she said. “The whole year, I was working and sharing meaningful moments with children that I truly treasure. This is my reason for joining pageants — to inspire hope in children’s lives, especially those in underserved areas, just like me before.”
Crowned during the 60th edition of Binibining Pilipinas in 2024, Esguerra said the extended preparation period allowed her to strengthen her advocacy and immerse herself more deeply in Filipino culture.
“We’re very prepared. Everything is set,” she enthused.
Esguerra, who will fly to Japan on Nov. 9 ahead of the official pageant activities, affirmed that she is ready to step on the Miss International stage with confidence and authenticity.
“I’m not making any promises,” she said. “But I’m going to Japan as my most authentic self — with a genuine heart and intentions.”
Esguerra also expressed her excitement about the changes in the Miss International 2025 pageant format.
As announced by executive director Stephen Inventor-Diáz in a Facebook post, the long-running competition will feature a new format, production team, and overall concept aimed at creating a more modern and contestant-centered event. Inventor-Diáz said the revamp focuses on respecting participants rather than turning them into sources of entertainment. He also revealed that this year’s edition will introduce a “final two” showdown and include more dance performances.
“I feel that God is fighting for me. I’m just so happy to know that Miss International is now open to change. It’s something that all of us should be excited about,” she said.
Esguerra hopes to bring home the Philippines’ seventh Miss International crown — but more than that, she said she simply wants to make the country proud.
“I’ve imagined this moment in my head more than a hundred times,” she said. “Now, I just can’t wait to go there and shout, ‘Philippines!’”