20-04-2025
History made in Egypt: Alexie Mae Brooks from the Philippines crowned Miss Eco International 2025!
The Filipino-American athlete and model takes the crown and best in national costume award
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Dubai: Alexie Mae Caimoso Brooks has just made history! On April 19, 2025, this extraordinary Filipino-American athlete and model from Iloilo City, Philippines, was crowned Miss Eco International 2025 in a spectacular coronation night held in Alexandria, Egypt—a moment that will go down in history!
The moment she was crowned was nothing short of magical. The crowd erupted in thunderous applause as they witnessed not only the birth of a queen but the rise of a true powerhouse—someone whose beauty, strength, and passion for the planet captivated the entire world.
The final rankings were fierce, with Yulinar Fitrani of Indonesia taking the first runner-up spot, followed by Yelyzaveta Adamska from Ukraine as second runner-up. The Top 5 was completed by Cynthia Murillo of the USA in third runner-up and Victoria Repollo of the United Kingdom as fourth runner-up. But it was Alexie Mae Brooks who stole the spotlight—and took home the crown!
A journey of passion and perseverance
Born and raised by her grandparents in Leon, Iloilo, Brooks's journey to the top has been nothing short of inspiring. A track and field athlete, she proudly represented the Philippines at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games before transitioning into the world of pageantry. In 2024, she was crowned Miss Iloilo, and soon after, she became a Top 10 finalist at Miss Universe Philippines 2024. Her destiny as a global ambassador for the environment began when she was named Miss Eco Philippines 2025, and the rest is now part of history!
Brooks won the Best in National Costume award for her stunning ensemble designed by Tata Blas-Pinuela, inspired by the Philippine eagle. The costume, with intricate feather details and a regal headdress, symbolized strength and freedom, earning her universal admiration. Before the coronation, Brooks also secured first runner-up in talent competition, and placed 10th in Resort Wear and 6th in Eco Wear. Each segment showcased her dedication to beauty with a cause and her unshakable confidence.
The moment of truth: The unforgettable Q&A
The stakes were high during the final Q&A, where Brooks's wisdom and passion shone brightly. When asked how she would envision the world in 2050 and what she hoped to change, Brooks delivered a powerful and emotional answer that captured the hearts of the judges, the audience, and the world.
Her response? It was a call to action—and a call for unity in the face of climate change:
'If you want me to be realistic, climate change is impacting our world right now. And the only thing we can do is act. Brothers and sisters, ladies and gentlemen, we have the same mother, even if we come from different nations. And we in here are brothers and sisters right now. And our mother is asking for our help. So we must save our planet Earth, and we must take care of our Mother Earth. Thank you so much.'
Beauty pageant fans across the UAE are praising Brooks's remarkable journey from humble beginnings to international stardom. The excitement surrounding her victory in Egypt is palpable, with many admiring her strength, grace, and unwavering dedication to her cause. Here's what some of her fans had to say about her inspiring story and standout performance at the pageant:
Phearly Delfino Alejandria, Woman of The World 2024 at The Grand Universe Pageant in the Philippines, who is based in the UAE, reflects on the inspiring rise of Brooks.
'What's truly inspiring about Brooks is how she turned the pain of being bullied for her skin color into a drive to represent women with strength and pride. From a small town in Iloilo to the international stage, her story proves that resilience, heart, and staying true to your roots can make you shine.'
For Alejandria, Brooks's win represents the growing diversity in pageantry: 'Brooks's unique look and mixed heritage challenge outdated beauty standards. She shows that representation matters, and beauty comes in all forms. We're all uniquely beautiful, and Alexie embodies that confidence.'
Alejandria also praises Brooks's national costume, which blends traditional Filipino elements with modern flair: 'It's a creative way to preserve our culture while making it relevant and captivating for today's global audience. It celebrates who we are with pride and style.'
What aspects of Brooks' journey do you find most inspiring?
Ryan Banks, 35, Architect and Show Director based in Dubai replied: 'For me, it's Brooks's humility. Even though she didn't win the crown she was aiming for at Miss Universe Philippines 2024, she embraced her title with grace. Her resilience throughout her journey has been truly inspiring. Brooks showed us that setbacks don't define you—they shape you into the champion you're meant to be.'
When asked about her performance and national costume, Banks responded: 'Brooks was in her absolute best form! It was so clear that she really prepared for this moment. Her performance was way beyond her showing at Miss Universe Philippines—this was her best yet. And that national costume? It was a showstopper! The Philippine eagle representation was not just beautiful, it was powerful, just like her. Truly, she was born for this stage!'
In response to the growing trend of inclusivity, Banks expressed: ' It's so heartwarming to see beauty pageants embracing all kinds of beauty—like Brooks's unique androgynous appearance. It's proof that beauty comes in many forms, not just the conventional. Brooks's heritage and individuality shine through in every way, and seeing that celebrated in pageantry is an exciting step forward for inclusivity worldwide.'
A historic win for the Philippines
This historic win marks the Philippines' third Miss Eco International title, following the amazing victories of Cynthia Thomalla in 2018 and Kathleen Paton in 2022. Brooks is now part of this prestigious legacy—and she's proving to the world that beauty and purpose can go hand in hand.
With heart, heritage, and an unwavering mission for the planet, Brooks isn't just a beauty queen—she is a beacon of hope, a voice for change, and a champion for a greener, united future.
