Beauty for a cause: Beyond the pageant
The news headline, “Miss PH Earth Joy Barcoma calls for accountability in flood control controversy,” (Inquirer.net, 8/30/25), is a breath of fresh air and a bold, commendable move from a Philippine beauty pageant candidate. I have known Joy Barcoma as our newly crowned Miss Philippines Earth 2025, the Silver Edition winner of the Miss Philippines Earth Organization. I am, at any rate, impressed by how she consistently shares her insights and concerns on social media, courageously addressing the alleged corruption in flood control projects—an issue that has devastated communities, displaced families, and wreaked havoc on our already fragile ecosystems.
Her emphasis on why we must care about the country’s future reflects a strong sense of social responsibility toward the environment, especially considering that the Philippines lies within the Pacific Ring of Fire and is highly vulnerable to typhoons and other natural disasters.
Despite receiving mixed reactions from the public or netizens, Barcoma continues to remain vocal—an audacious stance that not only defies public scrutiny, but more importantly amplifies the voices of fellow environmentalists and vulnerable communities who have long been calling for change. Her principles challenge the status quo and urge policymakers to prioritize sustainable solutions over short-lived gains as well as lavish lifestyles.
I believe the Philippines needs more beauty queens like Barcoma—women who really use their voices for advocacy, for a cause. Now more than ever, as we face a soaring climate crisis, Barcoma stands out as a multifaceted and influential figure who is undoubtedly on the right trajectory—using her platform not just for pageantry, but for monumental change.
Jhon Steven C. Espenido,
Surigao City
