Miss USA Deshauna Barber says Philippines ‘exceeded expectations’

Among the Miss Universe 2016 candidates, Miss USA Deshauna Barber may just be the closest to reigning Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach: the two have been roomates in New York for several months now.

So, even before coming to the Philippines for the first time this December for the pageant’s kickoff events, Barber had already heard many things about the country from the Filipina beauty queen.

In a press conference on Monday, Miss USA said that while her roommate has given her a glimpse of the Philippines through stories and packs of dried mangoes, being in the country has been nothing short of a memorable experience.

 

The smile you make when you land in the beautiful Philippines ??????????

A photo posted by Deshauna Barber (@missusa) on

Dec 8, 2016 at 7:25pm PST

“I sent Pia pictures because I finally tried mangoes. Fresh mangoes,” said the American beauty queen. “She continues to bring dried mangoes to the apartment every time she comes back from the Philippines. That’s one expectation that has been exceeded—the mangoes are very sweet.”

Barber also lauded the kindness and hospitality of the Filipino people, who have been warm and welcoming to the candidates.

“Everyone has been so friendly. I can’t believe how much hospitality we have seen as candidates. Thank you all for being so welcoming,” she said.

Barber added, “Pia is such a kind person, but I can’t believe how kind everyone is here. She has been an awesome representation of the Philippines and everyone that lives here.”

 

Getting to know the Philippines with the two #confidentlybeautiful women who happen to know it best! ????????

A photo posted by Deshauna Barber (@missusa) on

Dec 11, 2016 at 8:37pm PST

Barber is among the first batch of Miss Universe 2016 candidates to travel to the Philippines and tour its most beautiful sites.

After enjoying the waters of Siargao, the beauty queens from Japan, Korea, New Zealand, United States of America, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Indonesia, China, Malaysia, and the Philippines got a glimpse of the Filipino culture and traditions in Intramuros on Monday.

This Tuesday, the candidates are set to visit Cebu, the Queen City of the South. — BM, GMA News