The final coronation on November 4 was witnessed by millions of fans at the Mall of Asia Arena, via livestream and television broadcast in over 50 countries. Karen Ibasco of the Philippines was named the winner, crowned by outgoing titleholder Katherine Espin of Ecuador. Miss Earth is considered to be one of the largest and most watched pageants on the planet.

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Rounding out the Top 4 were Australia’s Nina Robertson as Miss Earth-Air, Colombia’s Juliana Franco as Miss Earth-Water, and Russia’s Lada Akimova as Miss Earth-Fire. Additional nations in the Top 16 were Angola, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Cameroon, Czech Republic, Guatemala, Netherlands, Switzerland, Thailand, Tonga, Venezuela, and Vietnam.

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On August 5, Gibau was selected to represent the USA out of nearly 50 state representatives. Age 22, she is originally from the Boston area and recently graduated from St. John’s University in New York City. She is recognized as a former Miss Teen United States and first runner up to Miss New York USA.

 

Managed by Carousel Productions of the Philippines, Miss Earth focuses on empowering women through fashion, leadership, travel and service opportunities. Delegates advocate for environmental awareness and protection of the Earth while showcasing various tourist destinations.

 

Throughout October, delegates traveled to all corners of the Philippines to promote eco-tourism and bring cheer to the communities. During Miss Earth preliminary competitions, Gibau was awarded medals for resort wear and swimwear. Competition components also include video, application, interview, public speaking, evening gown, national costume and talent.

 

Gibau will return to the United States to resume her national title and support environmental causes, as well as conduct fashion and media appearances around the country and beyond. Upcoming appearances include an environmental mission trip to Nicaragua and modeling in New York Fashion Week. She will crown next year’s USA representative during the 2018 national contest on July 14 in Washington, DC.

 

The national program offers competitive divisions for three age groups: Teen age 15-19, Miss age 19-26 and Elite age 26-34, advancing to Teen Earth, Miss Earth and Ms. Earth respectively.

 

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