Actress Teresita “Winwyn” Marquez, the first Filipina to take home the Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 crown, was officially sashed as Miss Universe Philippines – Muntinlupa 2025 on February 8. The ceremony also served as an introduction to Anna Magkawas, CEO of Luxe Beauty & Wellness Group, in her new role as the local director for the pageant. For both women, this went beyond crowns and titles. It was about influence, empowerment, and a deep connection to the community.
A Vision of Empowerment
Magkawas spoke with passion about her commitment to shaping the next generation of leaders. “This isn’t just about the title—it’s about empowering women who dream of representing Muntinlupa on a national and global stage,” she declared. “Pageantry is not just about beauty, it’s about purpose, advocacy, and making a difference. I want to create a space where women can showcase their strengths, develop their confidence, and bring positive change to the community.” Her connection to Muntinlupa is personal. “This city has been part of my journey, and I want to give back by supporting the women who will represent it with pride,” she explained.
A Meaningful Return
For Marquez, the 2017 Reina Hispanoamericana winner, this return to the stage is a chance to give back. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance, and I couldn’t say no,” she admitted. “Muntinlupa holds a special place in my heart—it’s where I grew into adulthood and experienced the strength of community. I want to use this platform to make an impact, to inspire women, and to encourage them to take charge of their own stories.” She’s also passionate about women’s health. “Health is more than just physical well-being—it’s about mental and emotional balance, too. Women need to be empowered to take care of themselves, to speak up about their needs, and to have access to proper healthcare.”
Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Marquez-Dee came to support her cousin Winwyn
Inclusive Beauty for All
Both women share a vision of inclusive beauty. Marquez praised the Miss Universe Organization for its evolving approach. “For the longest time, people believed that mothers or women past a certain age didn’t have a place in pageantry, but I truly admire the Miss Universe Organization for changing that and making this platform open to all women. Beauty is not just about appearance; it’s about how you carry yourself, how you treat others, and the impact you create,” she asserted. Magkawas echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Luxe Beauty’s commitment to accessibility. “At Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group, we’ve always championed this belief by creating products that cater to all Filipinos, making sure that beauty, self-confidence, and wellness are accessible to everyone. It’s about making sure that everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered.”
Mentorship and Mutual Learning
Magkawas expressed her excitement about mentoring Marquez. “I look forward to mentoring Wyn, not just as a beauty queen but as a woman who inspires others. This journey isn’t just about competition—it’s about growth, learning, and using our voices for a greater purpose,” she said. Marquez, in turn, is eager to learn from Magkawas. “I know she can guide me, especially as a fellow mother, on how to prioritize what truly matters, like family. At the same time, she’s someone who knows how to dream big and make things happen, and I want to learn from her experience,” she shared. As these two women embark on this journey together, their focus remains clear: empowerment, inclusivity, and making a real difference.
