NICOLLE LAGERA
Age: 26
Height: 5 feet 5 inches
Measurements: 33 inches - 26.5 inches - 33 inches
Occupation/Education: Financial Wealth Planner
Describe your childhood/growing up years (8-13 years old):
My childhood was a mix of laughter and tears. I matured faster than my peers because I took on responsibilities in the household but learned a lot through the process. I experienced a lot of love from my family especially from my lola. I also developed friendships that last up to this day which I am grateful for.
What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
Definitely a lot of lessons were learned through my past experiences. I learned how to be independent earlier on because I was given the privilege of taking into account finances. Another thing that I learned as I grew up is that everyone is different and that we all have something that makes us unique from others. I also learned that life is full of unexpected and unforeseen events but whatever it is you go through happens so that you become the person you are meant to be. You make your life what it is and just choose what’s best for you at the moment, then life surprises you.
Most memorable moment:
Putting up a successful fashion show with my mom and our organization called WISDOM (Women’s Initiative for Sustainable Development, Opportunities, and Mentoring); We helped so many people because of that event and my proudest moment was when all the Bilibid prisoner’s paintings got sold. I am very passionate for the arts and the fact that I was able to be a vehicle for that so others can see wonderful creations made by the prisoners is a truly wonderful experience. Fun fact, we also had an Eco-warrior fashion competition where we had students create sustainable pieces which were really beautiful.
Why do you want to be Miss Philippines Earth?
For me, Miss Earth is the best pageant there is because it focuses on making this world a better place for us and future generations. If given the opportunity to be Miss Philippines Earth, I know this can be the best support system and vehicle for me to create more impact to others since this is such a prestigious platform to be a part of. If I become the next Miss Philippines Earth, I will have a better platform to help bring awareness, inspire, and educate my fellow Filipinos. I believe that it is through the collaboration of the titleholder, Miss Philippines Earth organization, the government, and local Filipinos that we can create the change that we seek.
What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose this?
Advocacy: Green Cities. California is one of the states that is trying to implement the Green City Initiative and it would be great to implement this more strongly in the Philippines as well. Right now, Taguig City and Makati City are pursuing some green city initiatives by having more trees and biking transportation but if we could scale it on a larger level not only can we help the Philippines’ carbon footprint but we can also make the lives of Filipinos easier and healthier.
What tip can you share to promote eco-tourism in your City or Municipality?
California has a lot of eco-tourism spots that’s well taken care of. What’s beautiful about it is that it’s very diverse wherein we have so many beaches, national parks, trail spots, and other kinds of sustainable places. Whatever mood you’re in or if you’re into urban places or countryside with fresh air and greens you can enjoy the different sights that California has to offer. The best way to enjoy these spots is to really live in the moment and absorb the beauty each individual place has to offer at the same time be a responsible tourist when visiting. The reason why the places are in pristine condition is because they are taken care of so as the saying goes, “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.” Just be respectful to Mother Earth so that it thrives and doesn’t deteriorate/ degrade.
