MANILA, Philippines – Bb. Pilipinas Supranational 2014 Yvethe Santiago was all smiles as she faced the media for her official send-off before departing for the Miss Supranational pageant in Krynica-Zdrój, Poland.

“I’m 100% ready. I can go tomorrow. And it’s all because of you, everyone who supports me, so thank you so much,” she told the press at the Balai Function Room in Cubao, Monday, November 10.

All eyes will be on Yvethe, as the reigning Miss Supranational is last year’s bet Mutya Johanna Datul – but Yvethe said that she will enjoy the whole experience. 

“I know I’m facing tough competition. A back-to-back victory is very hard but not impossible. My passion to bring home the crown will fire me up for the fight, and I’m excited to see what it will empower [me] to do come pageant time.” 

“I will just follow whatever Mutya tells me…just to enjoy. Let the natural Filipina charm flow, and show to the whole world what captivates the hearts of Filipinos and people from all over the world,” she said.

Mutya, who was present at the send-off, told Yvethe to “pray, focus, listen, and enjoy.”

Aside from the competition, Yvethe said she is looking forward to touring Poland especially St. Pope John Paul II’s hometown.

“We are going to visit Pope John Paul’s house and the museum, so I’m really excited. Actually Krakow itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site so it would be an honor for me to visit the town.”

Also present at the send-off were Bb. Pilipinas Tourism Parul Shah, Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental Kris Tiffany Janson, Miss Universe Philippines Mary Jean Lastimosa, Bb. Pilipinas 1st Runner-up Laura Lehmann and Bb. Pilipinas 2nd Runner-up Hannah Ruth Sison, who also gave their messages for Yvethe.

Yvethe’s mother Nida was also present at the send-off and wished her daughter well in the competition. 

The 21-year-old Bicolana beauty said that she is grateful for all the support she has been getting, especially from the press.  

“Thank you to all the press for all the good feedback. You give me inspiration to change improve myself,” she said.

The Miss Supranational pageant will be held on December 5. – Rappler.com