MANILA, Philippines – Newly crowned Miss Eco International 2018 Cynthia Thomalla is back in the Philippines after winning the title in Egypt, the first for the country.

In a press conference on Friday, May 4, Cynthia expounded on her answer during the competition’s Q&A segment, where she was asked about the importance of pageantry. (WATCH: Cynthia Thomalla’s winning answer at Miss Eco International 2018)

“The question was also relevant to Laura [Lehmann]’s question during Miss World [Philippines]. When you see a beauty queen or when a beauty queen enters a room full of different professions, people actually look at beauty queens and listen to them. People actually don’t realize that beauty queens have made a difference. And we can show the world that we can make a difference,” she said.

“Actually, we already made a difference by simply inspiring others to do better and being [an] ambassadress of goodwill.”

When asked on her thoughts about the Philippines and its Asian neighbors doing well in the pageant scene, Cynthia said it’s not about which country or continent one belongs to.

“I think it’s all about passion. If you do it sincerely, you will really work hard for it and really aim for really what you want to do. It doesn’t really matter if you’re Asian, you’re Latina, or if you’re African, as long as you are doing it sincerely, and with all your heart and your mind, then I think you can actually succeed and win in any competition you are in. ” 

6-year diplomatic passport, activities 

As part of her prize for winning Miss Eco International, Cynthia will be traveling to various countries. She received a 6-year diplomatic passport. 

Arnold Vegafria, national director of the Miss World Philippines Organization and Miss Eco Philippines, said several trips are lined up for Cynthia, including a speaking engagement at the United Nations this year.

“There was a cash prize that was given to her, but of course, the main prize is the 6-year diplomatic passport as the ambassador for environment and ecotourism at the United Nations,” Arnold said in a mix of English and Filipino.

Aside from promoting ecotourism, Cynthia said she wants to include visits to hospitals and children’s charities. (READ: Miss Eco PH Cynthia Thomalla advocates respectful, responsible travel)

“During our activities, not all the candidates were able to go [to the hospital]. The owner just chose each country from a specific continent and sad to say, I wasn’t able to go, but I was able to share my gift with them,” she said.

“And I’m hoping that when I get back [to Egypt], I really want to talk to them (the organization) and I really want to go to the hospital itself. I really want to visit the kids there.”

Cynthia is currently preparing to visit her hometown in Southern Leyte before fulfilling her responsibilities as Miss Eco International. – Rappler.com