Ms PH Earth Talisay City: Maria Eliza Zosa

Ms PH Earth 2013 LIVE poll results

MANILA, Philippines – In line with the Miss Philippines Earth 2013 pageant’s water conservation theme, this 25-year-old nursing graduate says, “Through proper conservation of water, distribution of this precious resource will be assured.”

Describe your childhood/growing-up years (8-13 years old):

We traveled a lot because of my father’s job. He liked bringing us with him wherever he went because he believed that traveling is an exciting form of education. I’ve grown to appreciate this even more. I know that all my experiences are wonderful memories no one can ever take away from me.

Summers were spent in places not just across the Philippines but also around the world. We were blessed enough to have parents who loved exposing us to this kind of life (although I’ve never really appreciated this while I was younger). We were also encouraged to spend time outside the house so my brothers and sisters and I were a pretty active bunch. We forayed into music, sports, arts, dance, cooking, and other hobbies. There was a strict rule against the television (we didn’t own one) so when we were at home, we read. We read a lot. In fact, pasalubong from our dad’s trips were books and encyclopedias.

Most memorable moment:

I have lots but, pageant-wise, winning as a runner-up in Miss Cebu is “memorable.” I never, ever thought I’d win in something like that!

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose this?

Recycling and trash segregation. I’m choosing these because these are what my family has been doing ever since I could remember. It’s really easier than people think. Today, we have weekly “visitors” at home, scavengers whom my mom befriended. They get the plastic bottles, milk cartons, newspapers, glass, and other items that the household has collected. It may not be something great but it’s a comfort knowing that you’re doing your part and empowering people as well!

– Rappler.com