Miss Filipina International 2023 is Matea Smith


Matea Smith was crowned Miss Filipina International 2023 in a glittering competition held on Saturday, August 5 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California.

The 21-year-old model and a behavioral and cognitive neuroscience student at the University of Florida bested over 30 other competitors to win the beauty title. Aside from the title, she also bagged the Best in Swimsuit award. She succeeds last year's winner, Blessa Figueroa.

Amanda Russo was named Miss Filipina International Tourism 2023 while Lauren Skeoch, Patricia Tapia, and Rylen Steinbuch were announced as the first, second, and third runners-up, respectively.

Rounding out the Top 15 semifinalists were Beatriz Mclelland, Dakota Swart, Denise Samaniego, Hannah Marte, Heather Casignia, Issa Rose Mata, Jessica Zemanek, Kawina Kan-hai, Kelly McIlroy, and Mary Ann Monda.

Hosted by Jeannie Mai and Cheryl Burke, this year's competition marked the 10th-anniversary edition of the annual Miss Filipina International pageant. The winners are expected to compete in The Miss Philippines 2023 and Miss Universe Philippines 2024.

Reigning Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee, who will represent the Philippines at Miss Universe 2023 in El Salvador this November, graced the event as a special guest.

The new Miss Filipina International was born in Coral Springs, Florida with family roots in Pililla, Rizal. According to her bio, she enjoys traveling, cooking exercising, dancing, spending time with her loved ones, and listening to music. Her goal is to become a trauma surgeon and have a positive impact on people's lives.

Photos: Miss Filipina International, Arturo Lorde / Matea Smith / Instagram

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