Miss Philippines Earth

Miss TITAY, Zamboanga Sibugay

KIA LABIANO

Age: 23
Height: 5 feet 5 inches
Measurements: 33 inches - 24 inches – 36 inches
Occupation/Education: Management Accounting Graduate

Describe your childhood/growing up years (8-13 years old):
During my childhood years from 8 to 13, I experienced a mix of fun-filled adventures and valuable life lessons. Exploring the outdoors with friends, indulging in hobbies like reading and drawing, and navigating the challenges of school helped shape my character and fueled my curiosity for the world around me. At the age of 12, I managed to plant my first hundred trees with the help of my father.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
From my childhood and growing years, I learned the importance of curiosity as among others. Looking back I’ve grown interested in matters that’s not at all taught in schools, which some would say are irrelevant to society but the curiosity I had as a child brought me up to be someone who seeks answers and throw out questions. And I think that’s what we should foster the curiosities in children. For them to grow into adults thats breaks barriers and reach heights.

Most memorable moment:
The time I planted rubber trees with my dad. It was the most tiring day of my life. The striking heat, the thirst, the steep path we had to plant on. It was how I realized how much labor it requires to farm traditionally and it was where I started growing my interest in making this labor more efficient and convenient.

Why do you want to be Miss Philippines Earth?
It is a chance a province girl like me can only reach once in a lifetime given my resources, and I want to seize this opportunity to be a voice for environmental advocacy on a national platform. As Miss Philippines Earth 2024, I aspire to inspire individuals across the nation to prioritize sustainability and conservation efforts, ensuring a greener and healthier future for generations to come.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose this?
My environmental advocacy revolves around sustainable agriculture and preserving our agricultural heritage. Coming from a family of farmers and growing up in an agriculturally oriented province, farming is deeply rooted in my upbringing and identity. I believe that we must not forget the invaluable lessons and practices passed down through generations. Our agricultural heritage is not just a part of our past; it's a vital aspect of our present and future. By advocating for sustainable farming practices, I aim to ensure that we protect our land, resources, and traditional knowledge for generations to come. My environmental advocacy also extends to promoting sustainable tourism. Growing up in a region blessed with natural beauty and cultural richness, I've witnessed firsthand the impacts of tourism on our environment. Sustainable tourism practices are crucial for preserving delicate ecosystems, protecting wildlife habitats, and respecting local communities. By advocating for sustainable agriculture and tourism, I strive to foster a harmonious relationship between humans and the environment, ensuring that both thrive for generations to come.

What tip can you share to promote eco-tourism in your City or Municipality?
One effective tip to promote eco-tourism in our City/Municipality/Province is to encourage visitors to explore the nearest natural attractions and adopt an eco-friendly approach during their visit. By setting an example and initiating sustainable practices, such as minimizing waste, respecting wildlife and habitats, and supporting local conservation efforts, we can showcase the beauty of our locale while preserving it for future generations. This not only attracts tourists but also establishes our area as a responsible and eco-conscious destination, fostering long-term sustainability and community pride.