Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 7) — The newly crowned Reina Hispanoamericana said she wants the Filipino youth to embrace their roots.
Speaking to CNN Philippines on Tuesday, Teresita Ssen “Winwyn” Marquez said Filipinos have a unique heritage with a strong hispanic influence
“Hispanic culture is not just about language…As a Filipino, we instill that principle. I want to share that to the millennials. I want to promote that to the younger generation, to just go back to their roots, at the same time give value to the Filipino history,” Marquez said.
She added Filipinos must also celebrate Hispanic culture brought about by the over 300 years under Spanish rule.
Marquez was the first Filipina to compete in the pageant, besting 27 other candidates.
She was crowned by last year’s winner Maria Camila Soleibe of Colombia, during the pageant held in Sta Cruz, Bolivia.
The 25-year-old daughter of Alma Moreno and Joey Marquez knew the competition was tough.
Marquez said upon returning to the country, she will partner with her school, Southville International School and Colleges, to do charity work.
She is also open to the possibility of following her parents’ footsteps and enter politics.
Before the contest, Marquez spoke to CNN Philippines and said she felt the pressure, especially as she’s the first Filipina and the only Asian participating in the contest. She also revealed she was worried about not being able to speak Spanish.
Marquez, however, impressed judges and the viewers during the much-awaited question and answer portion, where she faced the question “How would you promote Hispanic-American culture with the great difficulty or barrier of language?”
“Language can be learned, but the will and determination to contribute something to the organization cannot. It has to come from the heart, it has to be natural. I believe that kindness is a universal language, that if you treat people with tolerance, patience, and love you will understand each other,” Marquez said.
“The Hispanic culture is not about love only. It’s about love for God, love for country, love for history and culture, and love for family. And as a Filipina with a unique heritage, I have instilled that. I am ready to promote the Hispanic culture not just in Asia, but in the whole world. It is time to celebrate the Hispanic culture. It is meant to be celebrated. Gracias,” she added.
