Miss Universe Philippines 2025 candidate Rechel Hoco opened up about her journey, resilience, and love for pageantry in an emotional press conference clip shared on her Facebook page, days ahead of the competition’s coronation night. Representing Oriental Mindoro, the Dubai-based digital creator reflected on how her past shaped her present and why, despite being one of the “most bashed candidates,” she remains focused on her mission.
Hoco, who has joined 168 pageants since the age of 13, said her commitment to pageantry stems from a deeply rooted passion. “Pageantry is my first love,” she declared. “Kahit anong mangyari, kahit saan man ako dalhin ng aking mga paa at ng aking mga pangarap, mananatili po akong babalik at babalik sa pageant dahil ito po ang isa sa pinakamagandang bagay na nangyari sa akin.”
When asked about becoming an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) at 21, she reflected on the reality check that came with working abroad. “Mas sinuntok po ako ng katotohanan na ang pagiging OFW ay hindi pala ganun kabilis, hindi ganun kadali,” Hoco said. “Ang pagiging OFW ko ang dahilan kung bakit ang lakas kong humarap sa media… at ngayong nandito na ako, wala akong sasayangin na panahon.”
As for why she believes she deserves the Miss Universe Philippines crown, Hoco emphasized authenticity and strength, both onstage and off. “Ako yung babae na sumisimbolo sa matapang at malakas para sa korona,” she said. Acknowledging public criticism, she added, “Masasabi ko po na ako ay isa sa mga most bashed candidates, pero nananatili po akong positibo dahil alam ko po anong purpose ko.”
