Binibining Pilipinas International 2017 Maria Angelica “Mariel” De Leon

MANILA, Philippines — On the outside, Binibining Pilipinas International 2017 Maria Angelica “Mariel” De Leon reflects a vision of calm.

But inside, she is feeling the nerves and excitement as she revs up to fly to Japan this November for Miss International 2017. While her eyes are still set on the coveted crown, she admits that she already feels like a winner, thanks to all the opportunities that have opened up for her, because of Binibining Pilipinas.

“I’m very excited about going to Japan, because this will be my first time to travel there. Plus, we’re heading there just in time for winter, so I’m ready to get into my winter wear. I’m ready to shop!” she laughs.

An avid traveler, Mariel is looking forward to immersing herself in the rich culture, hitting the popular tourist spots, feasting on great food, and getting to know the people.

But apart from living her dream in the “Land of the Rising Sun” and making her mark as a queen on the world stage, Mariel is most thankful for the opportunity of becoming a voice to causes near and dear to her, and among these is breast cancer awareness.

At the recent press con of ICanServe Foundation, an organization promoting breast cancer awareness, Mariel lent her voice as one of the muses for the Fashion Can Serve Fashion Runway. She donned a bold, crimson gown by Ito Curata, one of the six designers who will be presenting capsule collections at ICanServe Foundation’s Fashion Can Serve Fashion Show at Raffles Makati Hotel on October 8.

“Breast cancer is something that hits home, because my grandma and my titas had breast cancer. Thankfully, they (my titas) have overcome cancer and are now survivors,” shares Mariel.

Because of the history of cancer in her family, Mariel often reminds her family members, as well as her many fans and followers, to educate themselves about breast cancer and how to do breast self-exams. According to recent studies, the Philippines has the highest number of cases of breast cancer in Southeast Asia and among the top 10 in the world.

“I want to take away the fear and stigma of having yourself checked. We’re all afraid of getting sick, which is why many of us don’t want to schedule that important appointment with our doctors. But I say, it’s better to have yourself examined and know as early as now,” she says.

Helping to shine more light on the cause, Mariel will join the other muses and models on October 8. Making their way on the runway will be Maureen Wroblewitz, the first Filipina to win “Asia’s Next Top Model,” Margie Moran Floirendo, Gloria Diaz, Solenn Heusaff, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Katarina Rodriguez, Tootsy Angara, Wynn Wynn Ong, Techie Velasquez, Mila Camus, Sandy Moran, Sabrina Panlilio, and co-founder Crisann Celdran, among many others.

Besides a good heart that supports causes like breast cancer awareness, what makes the daughter of actors Christopher De Leon and Sandy Andolong beautiful?

“As cliché as it sounds, it’s confidence,” says Mariel. “I hadn’t always felt confident, especially when I was younger. I often doubted myself…I felt more beautiful as I matured.”