MANILA — After a five-year hiatus, Miss Asia Pacific International returned to the global stage with a dazzling coronation night held at Newport Theater, Resorts World Manila. Miss USA Janelis Leyba emerged victorious, claiming the coveted crown of Miss Asia Pacific International 2024.

Leyba expressed her overwhelming joy during her crowning moment.

“I’m super excited. I just want to thank God because He’s the reason why I’m here today. I hope to be a woman of integrity and represent Miss Asia Pacific International the right way,” she said. 

• Blessa Figueroa is Miss Asia Pacific International 2024 3rd runner-up; USA wins crown

When asked about the most challenging part of her pageant journey, she shared, “The most difficult part would be waking up super early—we had to get up at 4 AM! But despite that, I really enjoyed it. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Leyba, a college student studying business management and working as a teacher assistant, also spoke about her love for working with children. “I’m a teacher assistant; I work with kids, and I love kids,” she added.

In addition to the prestigious title, the competition announced its Continental Queens:

•    Africa: Chizuruoke Sufficient Arua (Nigeria)

•    Oceania: Keshia Lee Llarenas (Guam)

•    Europe: Selena Ali (Belgium)

•    Americas: Gabriela De Paiva Padilla (Bolivia)

•    Asia: Sophiya Singh (India)

Meanwhile, the Philippines’ own Blessa Ericha Figueroa made the country proud by securing the 3rd runner-up position.

“I am very grateful,” Figueroa said. “I believe I have come a long way. Whether I’m crowned or not, I’m thankful for this far I’ve come, and the friendships I’ve made along the way will last a lifetime,” she said.

 Here are the final placements of the evening:

•    4th Runner-Up: Jennifer Prokop (Germany)

•    3rd Runner-Up: Blessa Ericha Figueroa (Philippines)

•    2nd Runner-Up: Selena Ali (Belgium)

•    1st Runner-Up: Karen Sofia Nuñez (Mexico)