Left to right: Miss Teen USA 2014 K Lee Grahams, Philippine Consul General Mario Lopez de Leon Jr., Miss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler and Miss USA 2014 Nia Sanchez (Photo credit: Felix Manuel for OPMB Worldwide)
Consul Mario Lopez de Leo Jr. and Muss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler (Photo credit: Fenix Manuel for OPMB Worldwide)
Miss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler
In a recent private event held at the Philippine Consulate General Office in New York City, Miss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler, Miss USA 2014 Nia Sanchez and Miss Teen USA K Lee Grahams met up with Philippine Consul General Mario Lopez de Leon Jr. to further solidify the tie-up and also to give progress reports on the ongoing projects. Also present were Miss Universe Organization President Paula Shugart and Jan Willem Wegdem who is the Shelter Specialist and Development Manager of Cordaid.
In her emotional speech, Gabriela related that “After I finished my studies I wondered what I would be doing in my life, the Miss Venezuela Pageant came and then later on I was crowned Miss Universe. That was one of the happiest moments of my life! When I had the opportunity to help the people of Coron, Palawan, and the Banuang Daan community, I knew this is what I want to do in life- to help people!” said the teary eyed statuesque beauty. She recalled how respectful, unselfish and welcoming the people were during her visit to Coron.”They have no food, but they still made a big meal for me! I had to ask them to eat the meal with me. They did not have electricity, clean water or even homes, but they made sure I felt at home. I will definitely continue my work to help them!“
Gabriela delivering her emotional speech.
The Philippines really holds a special place in the heart of Miss Universe. Hopefully, everything will run smoothly so that project completion dates are met on the dot. Because by now, Cordaid is already starting with their next big effort, and that is to help prevent the spread of the Ebola virus. Just the same, the partnership between them remains very strong.
MUO President Paulo Shugart, Consul Mario Lopez de Leon Jr., Miss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler and Cordaid Shelter Specialist Jan Willem Wegdem (Photo credit : Felix Manuel for OPMB Worldwide)
