Pag-asa (hope)

My poem, “Pag-asa (Hope),” reflects the theme of AAPI Joy: anchor of hope and blueprint for change, as it celebrates the strength and resilience rooted in our cultural heritage. The loss of my lolo (grandpa) in 2020 deeply impacted me, but his last word, “pag-asa,” meaning hope, taught me that as long as you are breathing, life is worth fighting for.

Through pageantry, I had the honor of representing the Philippines and winning the title of “International Junior Miss Jr. Teen,” a victory that reflects the power of cultural pride and the joy in celebrating who we are. AAPI joy is not only celebrated but leads the way toward positive transformation and change. I have been able to volunteer with The Kind Mouse Organization as President where we have filled half a million tummies for the last 12 years. Filled with my lolo’s legacy, I have instilled hope within the next generation’s future leaders.