Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago still feels surreal after victory

MANILA, Philippines – Bea Rose Santiago still couldn’t believe that she already holds the title Miss International 2013.

“I still can’t believe it!” she said in an interview with Ginger Conejero for “Mornings @ ANC” Wednesday, December 18.

Bea was the last among the beauty queens who competed for an international title. First was Megan Young who won the Miss World 2013 title and Ariella Arida who finished third in the Miss Universe 2013 pageant.

Related: Miss Philippines Bea Rose Santiago is Miss International 2013

Though she was the last, Bea said she didn’t feel pressured for the competition since “everyone is so friendly.” But felt more pressured for the speech she’s going to have after the pageant.

She already prepared a speech “two months before the pageant” – which she says is about her journey growing up.

But after she visited the victims of typhoon Yolanda in Visayas, she thought that if ever she wins, the speech will be a good way to thank everyone who helped the country.

“After seeing Capiz, you know, I went there and it was heartbreaking,” she said. “I was really inspired me, it opened my eyes and the turning point is when we went to the municipals hall of Roxas City and it is heartwarming seeing people from different countries there helping.

“From that point on, I was like definitely we need to say thank to everyone. So I made sure that my speech is not about me anymore, it’s about the whole Philippines,” she added.

When she comes back to the country, Bea hopes she will be able to visit more places which was affected by the super typhoon and “personally help them.”

Problem with citizenship?

Meanwhile, Bea also clarified the reports that came out saying she was eyed for the Binibining Pilipinas- Universe, but it didn’t push through due to some issues with her citizenship.

“For Binibining Miss Universe you have to stay here at least six months,” she said, which in her case she returned in the country last year.

“But my passport doesn’t have a stamp,” she adds. “I don’t know. But I don’t really care right now, I won.” She also commended Ariella for doing very well during the Miss Universe competition.

Since all eyes are on Bea now, some are curious if she’s already in a relationship or dating anyone.

“I’m single but not available,” she replied followed by a laugh. “I’m seeing someone and we’re seeing each other for quite a long time. But I’m still not ready for commitments coz my commitment right now is to focus on my advocacy.”

At the end of the interview, the beauty queen from Masbate has nothing but words of gratitude for all the Filipinos who supported her before, during, and after the pageant.

“Salamat, maraming-maraming salamat sa nagsuporta sa akin and praying for me,” she said.

“Actually, keep praying for the Yolanda victims because they need it more than I do. I got my prayers answered and I’m very thankful and happy. This is for the Philippines!”