Fil-Am beauty representing Leon crowned as Miss Iloilo 2024
Beauty, wits and advocacy combined is a surefire way to snag a beauty pageant title and that’s exactly what it took for Fil-Am queen Alexie Mae Caimoso Brooks to win Miss Iloilo 2024 crown.
Hailing from the municipality of Leon in Iloilo, Brooks brought the crown home last Jan. 13 after the pageant night held at West Visayas State University Cultural Center.
Her wits, talent and beauty with a dash of hometown pride set her apart from the 14 contenders. Now set to conquer the Miss Universe Philippines stage, she also snatched up other accolades that night: Best in Designer’s Fashion Show, Best in Swimsuit and Best in Cultural Costume.
“From my lowest moments to the pinnacle of joy, this journey has been nothing short of a miracle,” expressed Brooks as she shared a heartfelt post with gratitude for everyone who supported her.
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Aside from her stunning looks, the real icing on the cake that won over the judges — her commitment to women empowerment. “I want women to move forward, Abansi babae!, I want to empower and advocate for women,” said Brooks in the question and answer portion.
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This Fil-Am beauty’s roots
Proudly representing not just Leon but also the Filipino American community, the 22-year-old queen is a hometown girl who used to rule the marketplace as a street vendor.
Born in 2001 in Leon, Iloilo, her educational journey from Iloilo National High School to earning scholarships at University of Southern California and the University of Texas is a testament that she’s not just a Fil-Am beauty but with brains to match.
Furthermore, she was also a model and graced the cover of CosmoBiz Magazine — a hair and wig extension magazine in the US.
Amidst the glam of the runway, Brooks never forgets her loving grandmother “Basing,” who has been her rock throughout her life. While her parents separated, Lola Basing was there to support her.
“To be honest, my grandma, she’s been here the whole time. Ever since I was a kid, I didn’t have anything. She gave me everything. She’s my life. I’ll do anything for her,” expressed Brook.
More than just her sash and crown, Brooks is also an athlete and a student pursuing a career in business marketing.
What’s next for this Fil-Am beauty? We’re crossing our fingers for the Miss Universe Philippines crown.
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