The first Miss Global Phl and her court

MANILA, Philippines - Catherine Marie Almirante (center), 22, of Cagayan de Oro City was crowned as the first Miss Global Philippines last Oct. 11 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater of Resorts World Manila, beating 21 other hopefuls for the right to represent the country in the 2014 Miss Global pageant on board the Crown Princess while on cruise from L.A. to Mexico Dec. 12 to 20.

Reigning queen is Emily Kiss of Canada.

Catherine’s court includes (from left) Athena Catriz, Sirene Sutton, Lorraine Erum (a single mom) and Cindy Madduma, all of whom were named Tourism Ambassadresses of the Philippines.