MANILA, Philippines — Janelis Leyba of the United States was crowned Miss Asia Pacific International 2024 in a spectacular ceremony at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila. The event was a night to remember as the outgoing queen, Chaiyenne Huisman of Spain, passed on her crown, cementing her legacy as the longest-reigning titleholder in the pageant’s history.
Karen Sofia Nuñez of Mexico secured the 1st runner-up position, followed by Selena Ali of Belgium, also named the Continental Queen of Europe. Blessa Ericha Figueroa of the Philippines proudly claimed the 3rd runner-up title, while Jennifer Prokop of Germany, who won Best in Swimsuit, rounded out the top five.
The competition was fierce, with five more contestants making it to the Top 10: Sweden, New Zealand, Vietnam (who won Best in National Costume), Canada, and Thailand, who dazzled in the Best in Evening Gown category and won the People’s Choice Award.
The Top 20 included other standout delegates, such as fast-track challenge winners India (Continental Queen of Asia), Nigeria (Continental Queen of Africa), Bolivia (Continental Queen of the Americas), and Reshia Lee Llaneras of Oceania, who not only won the title of Continental Queen but was also named Miss Congeniality. Other semi-finalists hailed from Canada, Venezuela, Singapore, Colombia, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, and France.
This year’s selection committee featured an impressive lineup, including Brian Ong, Arnel Palmera, Renee Salud, Paolo Duarte, Carell Herrera, Atty. Florentino Garces, Raymond Gabriel, Wilbert Tolentino, and Rafael Gonzales.
The four-hour spectacle was hosted by Marc Nelson and Joey Mead King and streamed live to a global audience via YouTube, captivating viewers worldwide with its glitz, glamour, and celebration of diverse beauty.