Mother's Day: Miss Universe Philippines 2024 mom contestant Selena Antonio Reyes on balancing pageantry, motherhood

MANILA, Philippines — Before Michelle Dee crowns her successor as Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) later this month, Filipinos will first celebrate the number one women in their lives — their moms.

Pasig City's representative Selena Antonio Reyes, a 38-year-old mother of two, is among the candidates making history at this year's pageant as the first married contestant with kids.

In an online interview with Philstar.com, Reyes discussed her pageantry journey leading up to her historic appearance at MUPH and how she balances it with life as a mother.

Why did you join MUPH?

"Well the Miss Universe Philippines stage is the biggest platform for us women, moms, and women of age.

"At 38 years old, I would like to inspire women to be their better version be it physically, mentally and emotionally. And make them believe that it is never too late the dream your biggest dream."

Has it always been your dream to join Miss Universe? Why?

"Back in 2010 [during Binibining Pilipinas] I was only 24, it was my very first pageant. I dreamed of representing my country [on] the Miss Universe stage. But God had made different plans for me. My husband proposed after my pageant, and I felt like my pageant dreams were cut short.

"Now after giving birth and raising my family, this inclusivity rule has been the biggest and greatest news for us moms and women of age that we can still make a difference and be the change we want for others."

What are the challenges of joining MUPH now?

"Each candidate encounters different challenges, I personally encountered physical, emotional and financial challenges.

"Physically challenged because my body is used to working out, not having to work out for a long period takes a toll on me especially as an athelete (My body craves the adrenaline).

"Emotionally because you miss your family, your kids. You don't get to see and spend time with them as often as you would want because of the hectic schedule of MUPH.

"And financially, because of course you are investing in yourself for months, continuously shelling out money to improve yourself. But [it] could be looked at as a good investment because of the experiences and maybe the title that will come