Miss Earth-Water 2020 is a proud Igorota from Besao, Mt. Province

Photo Courtesy || Roxanne Baeyens

Cordillera - Miss Philippine Earth Roxanne Allison Baeyens of Cordillera was named Miss Earth-Water 2020 during the virtual pageant held on Sunday, November 29, 2020.

The Igorota beauty queen was also named Jewel Beauty Strong Earth Ambassador. 

She has also won the Best in in Evening Gown and Best in Eco Video Jewel Awardee Swimsuit People's Choice. 

After winning the Miss Earth-Water 2020, the Cordilleran beauty queen thanked Miss Earth organization, her team Philippines and all her supporters.

"Beyond grateful to be your Miss Earth - Water 2020. Throughout this year, I have changed and grown so much as a person. Learning to find the confidence as a spokesperson is not the easiest journey but I have found power in my voice along the way. Environmental Protection has grown in me day by day and I know this is what should be given more importance while we are still given the gift to live. 

Photo Courtesy || Roxanne Baeyens

This is the end to a new beginning. I have so much gratitude  for the Miss Earth Organization who helped me find who I truly am and what I am destined for. Beyond grateful for team Philippines and to everyone who held my hands and showed me I can do it. It was a year long journey of up and downs, twist and twirlies, but if there’s one thing I have learned, it is that everything worth having is worth working hard for with all your heart. This is for us, all of us."

The 23-year old Baeyens also won the Best in Talent (Dance Category) and Best in Long Gown competition. 

The final gown she wore during the virtual coronation day was inspired with the Rice Terraces of Ifugao.

"This gown is carefully handicrafted to perfection and with Rice Terraces of the majestic Cordilleras of the Philippines creating a social balance of the landscape of great beauty that expresses the harmony between mankind and the environment," Baeyens said.

Photo Courtesy || Roxanne Baeyens

A masterpiece of designer Rian Fernandez, the bodice depicts the high rice fields of the Ifugao and the skirt represents the contours of the mountains.

The design reminds us of the sacred tradition to continuously ensure the sustainability and conservation of this living cultural treasure over time, according to the beauty queen.

Baeyens who traces her roots from Besao, Mt. Province has been advocating agriculture and urban gardening since joining the beauty pageant.

Congratulations Miss Roxanne for representing the Cordilleras and the Philippines. Your Kailyans and Kababayans are so proud of you.