Irha Mel Alfeche has made her mark in the pageantry world by securing the title of Miss Philippines Earth 2024, becoming only the second Mindanaoan to win this prestigious national pageant since its inception in 2001. Her victory was celebrated in Talakag, Bukidnon, exactly 22 years after April Ross Perez from Zamboanga City won in the second edition of the pageant.
Alfeche’s journey to the crown was unique as she did not go through the traditional screening process like many other candidates. Instead, she earned her spot in the Miss Philippines Earth pageant by winning the Miss Philippines Earth-Mindanao competition held last year. This 24-year-old delegate from Matanao, Davao del Sur, also made history as the second consecutive “repeater” to win the Miss Philippines Earth crown, following in the footsteps of her predecessor Yllana Marie Aduana and 2012 winner Stephany Stefanowitz.
An educator specializing in special needs education, Alfeche has advocated strongly for sustainable living, particularly through home gardening, during her pageant campaign. Her slogan, “Grow what we eat, and eat what we grow,” resonated with the audience and judges, highlighting her commitment to environmental stewardship.
Adding another layer to her impressive profile, Alfeche is the third military reservist from the Philippines to participate in a major international beauty competition, a testament to her diverse skills and dedication. Previous Miss Universe delegates Beatrice Luigi Gomez and Michelle Marquez Dee also completed their military reservist training, paving the way for beauty queens like Alfeche to showcase their multifaceted abilities.
Irha Mel Alfeche will represent the Philippines at the 24th Miss Earth pageant scheduled to be held in Vietnam later this year. She aims to continue the Philippines’ legacy in the international arena and aspires to become the fifth Filipino woman to clinch the Miss Earth title, following the country’s strong performance in past years.