MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi lauded local initiatives to preserve and promote the rich Meranaw culture.

"When I came here, I was amazed by the culture and something that really stick into my mind is when they told me that they teach a lot of culture and tradition in school," Cortesi said during her visit to Lanao del Sur.

The beauty queen stressed that it is important to teach culture and tradition to children so they can pass it on to the future generation. 

Cortesi arrived in the municipality of Marantao on Thursday, November 10, and was welcomed by Grade 6 learners of Rana-ranao Elementary School through a Meranaw dance.

"It [the welcome dance] was very nice to watch and I'm really looking forward to learn more about their culture. It is my first time visiting here but everything was so nice and the people are very welcoming. I really hope to come back," she further said.

Cortesi also graced the turnover of temporary learning space to Rana-ranao Elementary School as part of the Life Changer for Children Program of Save the Children Philippines which is supported by Miss Universe Philippines.

Cortesi was joined by Miss Universe Philippines Charity 2022 Pauline Amelinckx and Miss Universe Philippines 1st runner-up Annabelle McDonnel.

The Miss Universe Philippines delegation also went to Marawi City and visited the Raheemah Economic Hub and Youth Development Center where local products, including traditional craftworks, were showcased.

The three beauty queens also learned how Raheemah Peace Weavers Cooperative is helping the women and youth sector in Marawi, particularly in promoting their livelihoods and preserving Meranaw culture and heritage. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)