Three months ago, Jomelle Joegy Marquez didn’t think she’d head this route. That was until she turned 15 last January, when she found herself joining Miss Teen International Philippines as Parañaque’s representative.It was hard to believe she only had nine days to prepare. Having sat as judge on pageant night, all I could see was this lovely young introvert, bursting out of her shell, and living what was one virtually a daydream. There was no trace of her having to take a crash course at all. Still, she executed what she learned within that very narrow time frame. And, on top of all that, she just had fun – as a teenager should. In her own quiet way, her determination was evident. 

She didn’t win the plum title that night. But still, she scored several accolades including Best in Long Gown, Pageantry Fanatics Queen, Miss Alta Teen International, and most notably, Miss Teen Charity. She thought it was already the best night of her life. Little did she know that she’s destined for another adventure all along. 

Her performance qualified her for Miss Teen Global Beauty Philippines. The title will serve as her ticket to the global tilt happening in Rio de Janeiro later this year. Today happened to be her crowning and sashing ceremony in B Hotel in Alabang. It was a brief and simple gathering attended by pageant media and entertainment press and it was the most outspoken I’ve ever heard Joegy.

It hasn’t seemed to sink to everyone that she’ll soon don the Philippine sash abroad. Sometimes, it’s better that way – to absorb the turn of events gradually, rather than taking it all in at once. It’s more grounding when you savor the current achievements, before rallying to capture the next. For the time being, the family can only celebrate.

Come wrap-up time, half of the room went for the snack bar, while the other half carried on conducting interviews with the newly-minted teen queen. As I finally approached the National Director Charlotte at her table, she introduced me to one of the writers. “This is Chuckie”, she began. “He’ll be working with Joegy.” 

Well. I did once manifest more meaningful ways to work with budding artists. I say I claim this fresh start.