Junes and Beth on the beach + Mayon volcano in the background. 😊 (composite)

Binibining Philippines 2022 National Costume Contest- Albay

This costume represents the Albay tourism logo brought to life through a mythical ibong Adarna filled with colors, power and pride. As colorful as the rainbow are the native people of Albay.  For years, Albay has been synonymous to Mayon Volcano which the bodysuit of this costume manifest with its lace bodice details that highlights its powerful lava flow. Handpainted with a sun-shaped abstract in both sides to pay honor to the golden sunrise of the Philippines that reflects on the iconic cone shaped mayon. The colorful silhouette, emblems, feathers, gems and tassels decorated in the entire costume pays tribute to the perceptibly shining province as a tourism gem and a gender welcoming place which offers innumerable activities for leisure, fun, relaxation, and travel.

Side note, I also requested to have my costume in pride colors since it brings me so much joy and confidence. I also want to celebrate my costume in honor of the pride month. Surprisingly, the Albay logo is the same color so let's just say it was meant to be.

That quiet solitude that is neither lonely nor sad. It's just you and the sun, slowly creeping up the sky to give you another chance at life.

Few takes from the last month to keep me going on the next:

1. People will always see your worth. Hard and honest work is always rewarded in the end. Keep going. Keep hustling. (Thanks for the overwhelming opportunities, big bosses!)

2. Remember, you are enough.. Not everyone will appreciate all that you do, but the right ones will always cheer on you, and thank you just for being you.

3. Never expect anything. Just because you give it your all, doesn't mean they'll do the same for you.

4. Set boundaries. Have the courage to always walk away from things that affect your mental health.

5. Sometimes, you can only do so much.

6. Let life run it's course. Everything happens for a reason in the end.

7. Make a choice and deal with it. If it felt right the first time, then it probably is.

8. Sometimes, you are forced to deal with people whose values are different from you. Never lose sight of your true self.

9. Try not to repeat the same mistakes, even for different reasons.

10. People have already made assumptions about you even before you tell your side of the story. So, don't bother explaining.

11. Protect your peace. Always. ✨️

- DE Karlen