Iona Gibbs ends her Miss Intercontinental journey in the Top 22; Thailand bet wins title
The Philippines' bet Iona Violeta Gibbs has concluded her Miss Intercontinental pageant journey, earning a place in the Top 22.
The pageant was held in Egypt on Saturday, Dec. 16 (PH Time) crowned Chatnalin Chotjirawarachat of Thailand as this year's titleholder while contestants from Mexico, Vietnam, Serbia, Colombia, Russia, and Sierra Leone hailed as runners-up, respectively.
Despite failing to bring home the crown, the Filipino-Canadian beauty queen from Bataan sustained the country’s placement streak in the Miss Intercontinental pageant that was started by her fellow Mutya ng Pilipinas queen Koreen Medina in 2013.
During the national costume, Iona wore a Filipiniana terno dubbed as Prisma made by Daniel Manila Createur.
According to the designer, the national costume was inspired by the sun, "a revered symbol in both Philippine and Egyptian mythology" merging the rich heritage of both cultures.
"In a subtle nod to Egypt, intricate patterns reminiscent of ancient Egyptian art grace the edges, intertwining the narratives of two diverse cultures," the designer added. He also noted the "harmonious blend of tradition and innovation" by using luxurious materials such as gold sequins, crystals, golden beads, and laser-cut holographic elements.
Meanwhile, Iona delighted the stage wearing a Leo Almodal eveninggown that draws inspiration from the "wearer’s enigmatic name, uplifting the distinctly timeless beauty of Iona, the regal essence of Egypt, and the rich hues of its history."
The opulent gown features a luxurious gold fabric embellished with a stunning array of gold and violet crystals, forming a harmonious blend that exudes refinement and elegance.
New queen
New titleholder Chatnalin Chotjirawarachat of Thailand, according to the organization, won because of her "unparalleled charm, remarkable grace, and unwavering determination."
"In a moment that will forever be etched in beauty pageant history, Chatnalin Chotjirawarachat emerged as the deserving victor of Miss Intercontinental 2023. With her unparalleled charm, remarkable grace, and unwavering determination, she proved to be a shining star amongst a constellation of 65 incredible contestants," the Miss Intercontinental organization wrote in an Instagram post. It also highlighted Chatnalin's "countless hours of hard work, dedication, and true passion" for empowering others.
"With her victory, Nalin has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and the embodiment of the true essence of a Miss Intercontinental. She has proven that dreams do come true, and that with hard work and determination, anything is possible," it added.
Earlier this year, Mutya ng Pilipinas announced that it had reacquired the local franchise for the Miss Intercontinental pageant after 10 years.
Binibining Pilipinas Charities Incorporated (BPCI) owned the franchise from 2014 to 2022 and was able to produce two titleholders: Cindy Obenita in 2021 and Karen Gallman in 2018.
Gabrielle Basiano, who placed in the Top 20 last year, was the last Philippine delegate sent by BPCI.