MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines’ Alexie Brooks’ Miss Eco International 2025 victory on Sunday, April 20 (Manila time) in Egypt came at the perfect time: just days before her late grandmother’s birthday.
In an interview with pageant website Missosology, the Ilongga beauty queen said she had been wanting do her Miss Eco International 2025 stint for her grandmother, “Lola Basing,” who died in September 2024.
“She passed away recently, and it was her birthday four days ago, so every time sa birthday ni lola, tinatanong ko kung ano gusto niya (every time on lola’s birthday, I ask her what she wants) and whenever I compete I always bring home the gold, so I thought this time I’d bring her home the crown, and I did bring her home the crown! I’m really, really happy,” she said.
Brooks was up against Indonesia’s Yulinar Fitriani for the crown. She was crowned by Miss Eco International 2024, Ukraine’s Angelina Usanova.
The Filipina said that when it came time for the judges to name the winner, she was hoping that either her or Fitriani would be crowned, as they are both Asian, and they’ve gone on to develop a close friendship throughout the competition.
Brooks thanked Filipinos for supporting her throughout the competition, whether it was through online voting or praying for her in church. She promised that they would all celebrate together once she returns to the Philippines.
The Miss Eco International organization said that Brooks is “a true queen who embodies beauty, strength, and a powerful voice for our planet.”
“Your journey, passion, and advocacy have inspired the world, and now the crown is your The Eco Family is proud to welcome you as the new face of sustainability, beauty, and change!” the organization said.
Brooks represented Iloilo in Miss Universe Philippines 2024, where she was named Miss Eco International Philippines 2024.
Her victory comes just after Cavite’s Dia Mate was crowned Reina Hispanoamericana 2025 in February. – Rappler.com