Miss Philippines Earth 2025 Joy Barcoma confirmed she will not have a farewell walk as her reign comes to a close, ending days of speculation circulating on social media ahead of the pageant’s coronation night in Bukidnon on Saturday.
In a lengthy message posted online, Barcoma acknowledged the situation while expressing gratitude and pride over her tenure, saying she chose to focus on the impact of her work rather than tradition.
“As my reign comes to a close, I choose gratitude above everything else,” she wrote, thanking supporters who “believed in me, supported me, and loved me from the very beginning.”
Rumors had spread earlier this week claiming that Barcoma would not be allowed by organizers to perform the customary farewell walk, despite reportedly preparing for the event. The titleholder appeared to confirm this in her message, noting, “Tonight, I may not have a farewell walk,” before emphasizing that legacy goes beyond appearances on stage.
Barcoma described her reign as one marked by independence and determination, saying she “maximized every platform” and pursued opportunities to serve even when support was limited.
“I have never waited for doors to open for me. I have knocked on them myself so I can pass this title better than I found it,” she said.
She also alluded to challenges within the pageant environment, writing that “support doesn’t always come from every corner, even within the spaces you represent,” but added she chose to carry her title with “grace, respect, and gratitude.”
Barcoma thanked the Miss Philippines Earth Organization for the opportunity, urging the public to continue supporting the pageant and its environmental mission.
“This platform has never been about a queen. It has always been about a mission greater than ourselves — to protect our planet, uplift our communities, and inspire others,” she said.
Closing her message, Barcoma underscored her continued advocacy beyond the crown.
“Hindi natatapos sa entablado ang pagboses. At hindi limitado ng korona ang adbokasiya,” she said. “I will always and forever be an Earth Queen.”
