PAL's flight attendant misses Miss Philippines Earth cultural attire competition after serving as frontliner for OFWs

Hannah Bithiah Meriño of Sta. Rosa, Laguna said, she missed the Miss Philippines Earth cultural attire competition on June 24 since she was helping the repatriation program of the government for OFWs who hoped to come back home amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"My costume was actually ready, to be honest. But, a few days before the 24th, I was asked to fly to dubai to pick up OFWs," she said on Miss Philippines Earth Facebook page.

According to her, she was able to compete if the schedule of their flight going to the Philippines wasn't adjusted.

" Sadly, considering the travel time to the office-apartment-laguna, I won’t be able to make it to the competition anymore.

"It was a bit sad knowing that it was one of the last activities left, but I still feel glad at the same time because considering the situation and all the restrictions, I am still

able to participate in the pageant & work at the same time," she explained.

View this post on Instagram

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the team behind my MPE journey. ✨ And also everyone who’s been supporting me. 💛 This virtual pageant is no joke, definitely harder than how we normally do pageants, why I’m very grateful to everyone who helped me, from my looks, outfits to my setup & photos. From Q&A to boosting my self esteem. ✨My family & relatives who’s been very supportive in everything that I do. ✨ My friends, especially @jickaila , @dong.carlo , @moniqueteruelle . ✨ #KFamilia, Tito @rodinb.flores , Sir Migz & Kuya Enan 💛 To all the pageant bloggers/pages who gave me the chance to do live sessions and who’s been a big help in boosting my confidence. 💛 To the random people who message me showing support, I am overwhelmed & I really appreciate it. ✨ Of course to my team, Futari, thank you for everything. I would not have done this without you guys. 🥺 💛 To ate @istiec & family for all the support. Very grateful. 🥺 - Whatever happens, I’m beyond grateful for all the love & support. I did not expect a lot of people would be there for me through out this journey. Much love 💛💛💛

A post shared by Hannah Bithiah Meriño (@hannahbithiah) on Jul 2, 2020 at 7:08pm PDT

 

During the virtual cultural attire contest, contestants will showcased the best of their traditional dresses online to stay safe and follow the health protocols.

"Doing both of my passions during this pandemic. Even if I wasn’t able to wear my cultural costume last wednesday, I was given the chance to wear a different costume in service to the Filipino people. And I’d like to thank Miss Philippines Earth for allowing me to do so. Mabuhay," Meriño said.