What does it take to wear the crown?
The success the Philippines has been getting from international pageants inspires young Filipinas to aim for the crown. And this graduating pharmacy student is no exception.
Ma. Andrea Endicio was recently crowned as the first Miss Galaxy International. Mentored by Kagandahang Flores or KF, Andrea won’t get to compete until next year since the US-based pageant postponed the contest due to the pandemic.
“After graduation, I want to continue my dream of being a beauty queen and be involved in more charity works as I’ve always wanted to participate in extending help to the community,” she says. “If I’d be given the chance, I also want to pursue my other dream of becoming a doctor.”
Being a beauty queen entails upholding the right attitude and mindset when it comes to taking care of one’s self. Discipline and determination are very important.
In an email interview, she shares what it takes to wear the crown.
The Philippine STAR: What is your definition of wellness?
ANDREA ENDICIO:The word “wellness” for me is a collective term, which encompasses one’s physical, mental and emotional health. To be well physically, mentally and emotionally requires hard work, patience and perseverance.
Did you make healthier choices during the pandemic than before?
The pandemic made me realize that health is, indeed, our true wealth. So I made this conscious effort to improve my lifestyle. I worked out more often. I started to eat healthy and made sure I got enough sleep.
My parents joined me in my wellness journey as well. I believe that being healthy is a gift and it should be passed on.
How are you preparing for the competition?
Preparing myself physically for the competition is really a challenge. I want to look my best on the international stage.
With the help of my trainer/ coach Angelo Mendez, I’m working hard to achieve that fighting form we’re aiming for. We still have a year to prepare and we’re making the most out of it.
How are you preparing mentally?
As a rookie in this field, I realized that you shouldn’t just prepare for the competition physically but mentally as well. To represent the Philippines in an international pageant is already one thing, but to compete with a purpose is another.
When I won the crown as the first Miss Galaxy International Philippines, I aimed higher. I want to bring home the crown for my country. I want to reach more people and educate them about my advocacy. I am aiming for a higher purpose. Just as the saying goes, “Eyes on the prize.”
Now I am training myself mentally to compete not just for the sake of competing, but also for the many reasons I have engraved in my mind and heart. And as early as now, I have my eyes fixed on my goal.
What other aspects of your health and fitness do you wish to improve?
Being a beauty queen entails upholding the right attitude and mindset when it comes to taking care of one’s self. As someone who is not gifted with a naturally fit body, I have to work harder to achieve my health and fitness goals.
Discipline and determination are very important. I have a sweet tooth and I tend to lean on sugary stuff when I’m stressed. But I’m working on it.
Knowing that there are young girls who look up to me, I want to inspire them that having a healthy mind and body will get them closer to wearing the crown.