Magtanong represented the Philippines at the Miss International 2019 competition on 12 November 2019 in Tokyo, Japan placing in the Top 8.[6]
Early life and education
Magtanong was born on April 27, 1994, to a lawyer father and an accountant mother. She grew up idolizing both her parents and their professions, especially her father and his legal practice. While Magtanong's parents never prodded her to study Law and become a lawyer herself, she was always intrigued by the legal profession.[7][8]
During the 2019 Binibining Pilipinas question and answer round, Magtanong was asked: "If you could have the opportunity to meet somebody globally influential, who would that be and why?" To which she replied:
I really idolize Angelina Jolie because she is blessed with not just a thriving career in Hollywood, but then as a woman, she is able to use that influence, that voice, and that audience to advocate for the causes that she believes in, like breaking world hunger with the UN. And someday, if given the chance, I would like to be just like her. Thank you.[12]
She stated in a subsequent interview that she was aiming to win the Miss Universe Philippines crown to strengthen emphasis and further her advocacy on social justice, particularly on the rights of prisoners[13][14] but added, in conclusion, that she is very happy with the 2019 Binibining PilipinasInternational title she now holds, and is looking forward to using her platform for the causes she believes in.[15]
Miss International 2019
On 12 November 2019, Magtanong represented the Philippines at the Miss International 2019 pageant in Tokyo, Japan. During the speech portion of the pageant, the Top 8 finalists were given the chance to express themselves on why they should be the next Miss International. Magtanong's speech read:[16]
When I was younger, I found it strange that I was subjected to different standards as other boys my age. When I got older and even more so when I became a lawyer, I began to question these standards and challenge them. Why should women live in fear of harassment, violence, and discrimination when basic human decency calls for respect, tolerance, and compassion? To cheer all women means to support all women regardless of their race, religion, or background. But not only this – it also means to remove the barriers that prevent women from realizing their full potential. Miss International does this by fostering a global culture of women empowerment and gender equality. And through this platform, we can ensure that no woman anytime, anywhere is left behind.[16]
At the end of the pageant, she finished as one of the Top 8 finalists.[6]
