Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas 2024 Dia Mate at her media send-off. Photo:Republika News/Izel Abanilla 

MANILA, Philippines – “I feel very prepared.” 

This was the confident answer of current Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas Dia Mate when asked of her preparations for the most dreadful part of every pageant. 

Mate was praised by the media during her send-off on Wednesday at the La Noire Boutique Club in Makati City for her excellent communication skills, a trait integral for any beauty queen to ace any crown. 

“Of course there’s a bit of nervousness and fear when it comes to Q&A because you’ll never know what questions you’re going to get but the most important thing is I have to trust myself and I feel that I can trust myself right now,” she said. 

Mate displayed confidence in answering questions from the press showcasing her naturality in expressing herself through communication. 

Beauty camp Aces & Queens head Gerry Diaz testified to witnessing Mate’s evolution from being a meek girl to a confident beauty queen. 

“Napakalaki ng development talaga kasi neneng na neneg siya even the way she spoke she’s got good communication skills kaya lang sometimes hindi pa masyadong assertive but now she can really speak very well and I’m sure she will ace the Q&A portion at the Reina Hispanoamericana,” Diaz said. 

Diaz is also confident that the 23-year-old stunner has very good chances of winning the country’s second Reina Hispanoamericana crown. 

“Your Filipina morena beauty will stand out in the sea of Latina beauties. Add to that ‘yung personality niya, the warmth, the positivity and one thing I like about her is she’s very sincere and she’s very humble,” Diaz said. 

A natural artist herself, Mate has long been used to expressing herself through music which she uses as an instrument to champion her cause on mental health. 

Mate is set to leave on Saturday, January 18, for Los Angeles, where she will stay briefly before heading to Bolivia. 

The competition finals will be held on February 9.