Actress and beauty queen Teresita Ssen “Winwyn” Marquez, who is now vying for the Miss Universe Philippines crown, promised to come back to Northern Samar to explore more of its wonders, following their three-day stay in the province as part of the pageant activities.  

Mesmerized by the province’s beauty and heritage, Winwyn said in an Instagram post that their visit was “not enough” due to time constraints. 

“Three days just wasn’t enough... I wish we had more time to soak in the breathtaking beaches, visit the BIRI rock formations (babalikan ko 'to promise) and dive deeper into the rich heritage of this beautiful province,” she remarked. 

Winwyn said that although it was just a short visit, she appreciates the opportunity to explore the place.  

“Grateful beyond words to explore the gems of NORTHER SAMAR with my @themissuniverseph sisters ♡ group 2, mag ingay!!,” she wrote in her post’s caption.  

The beauty queen highlighted the remarkable places they visited during their stay there.  

“Exploring Capul Island - the light house wow... walking along the dreamy Pink Beach, Sila Beach Resort, Bontempt Beach Resort and visiting the historic St. Ignatius Parish Church, which has stood for over 400 years, made the experience truly unforgettable,” she said. 

In the same post, the beauty queen also underscored the hospitality of the people of Northern Samar, expressing her gratitude for their warm welcome. 

“But what truly left a mark on me was the warmth and kindness of the people. The way they welcomed and treated us with so much love and respect was simply unforgettable. Grabe lang po talaga,” she expressed.  

“I also want to say a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who gave me gifts and showed your support. Your kindness means the world to me, and I will never forget this experience,” she added.  

Winwyn is now representing Muntinlupa City at the 2025 edition of MUPH, making her pageant comeback after eight years.  

Winwyn Marquez returns to the pageant scene after 8 years: ‘Hello, Philippines! Hello, Universe!’

She is following the footsteps of her cousin, Michelle Dee, who represented the country at Miss Universe in 2023 where she finished in the Top 10. It was after she won the national pageant on her second attempt. 

Winwyn, along with Melanie Marquez, appeared in Michelle’s music video for her debut single “Reyna.” 

Michelle Dee's 'Reyna' music video features mom Melanie Marquez, cousin Winwyn

She was crowned as Ms. Reina Hispanoamericana in 2017. 

—By Clarence Gillego