Pinay model Monika Sta. Maria is 1st runner-up in Asia model search

After being hailed as the only Filipina in the Top 3 of the third season of Asia's Next Top Model this week, Supermodel Monika Sta. Maria is now officially the show's first runner-up following the announcement of winners on the season finale of the show aired Wednesday, June 17.

Indonesia's Ayu Gani won the prestigious Asia's Next Top Model title, beating the Filipina contender and Singapore's Aimee Rose Cheng-Bradshaw.

Gani will be appearing on the cover of Singapore's Harper's Bazaar magazine and will also become the newest face of TRESemmé haircare as part of the prize. She will also get a Subaru XV and fly to Europe to model under Storm Models agency.

Despite the runner-up placement, Monika could not deny how grateful she is of all the love and support she got over the duration of the competition from both Filipino and foreign fans alike.

The journey, according to her, was more than she expected. She added that it definitely made her stronger and more confident.

In an Instagram post published a few hours after the airing of AsNTM's season finale, the Filipina supermodel and former volleyball player admitted to being sad and disappointed, especially after coming so close to the title and placing second.

However, she vowed to continue her modelling journey, work even harder, and never give up.

“Months after I have learned that it is okay to feel sad in times of defeat. Cry it out, accept the feeling, but most importantly stand up and know that for as long as you continue on your journey, work hard and never give up, trust that there is a greater plan for you!” Monika said.

The Supermodel added, “Let us inspire each other to keep on dreaming and fighting for our goals without stepping on anyone, because it is the journey you will take and the people you will affect and meet that makes life worthwhile.”

Monika followed in the footsteps of fellow Filipina models Jodilly Pendre, Katarina Rodriguez and Stephanie Retuya who also made a mark in the Top 3 of the past two seasons of the competition.



— Bianca Rose Dabu/LBG/KBK, GMA News

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