(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
LA PAZ, Leyte-This small town rolled out a heartfelt welcome on Friday, August 29, for Angel Rose Tambal, this year’s Miss Earth Philippines–Water, as she returned home after her successful stint in the national pageant that champions environmental protection and conservation.
Tambal, visibly emotional as she was greeted by her fellow La Paznons, said the warm reception was a testament to the pride her community felt in her achievement.
“Seeing their smiles, seeing my fellow La Paznons welcome me, it’s a sense of fulfillment that I did a great job. I carried the banner not just of my municipality but of the entire province of Leyte,” Tambal said.
She also linked her journey to the pageant’s theme, Silver Lining, drawing parallels between Leyteños’ resilience and the message of hope the competition seeks to promote.
“I am happy that everyone is proud of me, that I was able to show how resilient we are as Leyteños—how, even after the strongest typhoon, we managed to rise above the darkest times,” she added.
Tambal’s homecoming began with a courtesy call on Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla, followed by a motorcade across La Paz, where Mayor Joel Cinco joined her. Hundreds of residents lined the streets, waving and cheering her name as her convoy passed by.
The celebration concluded with a short program at the La Paz town hall, where Tambal was honored for bringing pride to her hometown and for inspiring young people to pursue their dreams while remaining mindful of the environment.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
