First-ever Miss World Philippines Quest USA named

MANILA, Philippines - Summer camp counselor Alexa Kirby (center), 18 and standing 5’8”, was named first-ever Miss World Philippines Quest USA at an event held at the Symphony Space in New York City last July 12, with Miss World Philippines national director Cory Quirino among the judges. She will represent the Filipino-American community in the 2014 Miss World Philippines pageant to be held in Manila in November.

Her runners-up are (from left) Jenica Balmes (third princess), Isabella Estella (second princess), Misook Mendoca (first princess) and Erin Manansala (fourth princess).

Recently graduated from Downington West High School, Kirby is not new to beauty contests, having competed in the Miss Teen Pennsylvania and Miss Teen Philippines pageants. Among her prizes are a round-trip ticket to the Philippines, a $1,000 allowance and a stunning gown which she will wear during the Miss World Philippines finals courtesy of One.10 Collection, franchise holder (with Synergy Production and marketing, Inc.) of the Miss Philippines Quest USA.         — Reported by FELIX MANUEL