The grand coronation night for Miss Philippines-Earth 2017 happened over the weekend and we have to admit, the energy and excitement is apparent even a day later. I guess there’s something about beauty pageants that unite us to celebrate as a country.

Enter Karen Ibasco, the woman who took home the crown for Miss Philippines-Earth. She’s a medical physicist who is an advocate for energy conservation through the renewable and sustainable energy. She was able to talk about it during her pageant Q&A. Her question from host Robi Domingo was, “The government slogan is ‘Change Is Coming,’ what change do you want to see in terms of environmental policies in the country?”

She confidently answered, “In terms of environmental policies everyone [is] experiencing climate change, the whole world is experiencing climate change and I’m just grateful that the Philippines signed the Paris Treaty. What I want to see is to pass Carbon Tax. That way we can invest in renewable energy to help our world to be a better place and be habitable for the whole humanity. Thank you!”

Karen is now in a perfect position to work on her advocacy and at the same time bring this issue to light—more than ever.

Right after her win, she posted on Instagram thanking each and everyone who supported her in this journey. She committed to giving her all in representing the country and “to continue the legacy of what Miss Earth is all about.” She even shared how excited she is to shout “Karen Ibasco, Philippines,” for the upcoming international Miss Earth pageant happening in November.

I want to take this time thank every single one who supported me in my Miss Philippines Earth journey. It’s so surreal to me up until this point of time to win the crown. There are no words to fully express my gratefulness. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart! Rest assured I will give my 110% to best represent the Philippines in the international stage to continue the legacy of what Miss Earth is all about. I can’t wait to shout Karen Ibasco, Philippines!!! To God be ALL the glory!❤️ #MissPhilippinesEarth2017 #EcoWarrior #EarthWarrior #mpe #grateful #blessed #crown #beautyqueen #phooftheday #bestoftheday #savetheearth #gogreen #environment #loved #missmanila2017 #missphilippinesearth

A post shared by Karen Ibasco (@karenibasco) on Jul 16, 2017 at 5:43am PDT

Congratulations to you, Karen, and to Miss Philippines-Water Jessica Marasigan, Miss Philippines-Air Kim de Guzman, Miss Philippines-Fire Nellza Bautista, and Miss Philippines-Ecotourism Vanessa Mae Castillo.

[Inquirer.net and ABS-CBN News]

Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN News

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