Three queens crowned in one night

MANILA, Philippines – Three beauties were crowned at ceremonies in the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts in Jacksonville, Florida, from left: 2016 Miss Teen Philippines-USA Marlia Maiolo, 2016 Mrs. Philippines-America Lizelle Caspe and 2016 Mrs. Philippines International Joanne De Laat.

Born in Derby, Connecticut, Marlia dreams of following in the footsteps of Christi Lyn Landrito McGarry, the first title-holder (2005) who represented the Philippines at the 2015 Miss Intercontinental and finished first runner-up.

A Computer Science graduate from the University of Visayas in Cebu, Lizelle has participated in community service projects in New York.

A Paralegal Studies graduate from Boston University, Joanne is also a licensed new real estate agent and a Diamond Council of America certified diamond specialist. — Reported by Felix Manuel