For the second time, Miss World Philippines 2021 Tracy Maureen Perez left for Puerto Rico to compete in the Miss World competition happening on March 16.

In an Instagram post on Friday, March 11, Tracy wrote: “For the second time around, I’m leaving for Puerto Rico, carrying with me our country’s hopes and dreams. Please continue to pray with me, I know that all our hard work will soon pay off and our hearts will shine through! Mahal kong Pilipinas, lalaban tayo at ipapakita natin sa buong mundo ang puso at galing ng Pilipino!”

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The pageant was originally scheduled in December but was postponed after several candidates and staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Controversy also erupted between the organizers last February, forcing Miss World 2016 Stephanie del Valle to withdraw her participation from the pageant which will now be held at the Coca-Cola Music Hall.

Calming herself and aiming for the 2nd crown

During the send-off last March 5, Tracy was asked what she will tell herself as she gears up for the final round of competition.

“When I arrive in Puerto Rico, I will just keep telling myself that I am a Filipina. I am wearing the Miss Philippines sash. I carry with me the hopes and dreams of every single Filipina and every single person who believed in me. And I will not fail them,” she said.

“If I get tired, I will just tell myself more and more that I am there not to represent myself this time but to represent every Filipino. It is time to seal the deal and I will remind them that it is our time.”

Tracy hopes to bring home the second blue crown since Megan Young in 2013. The pageant will be hosted by British pop singer and TV personality Peter Andrei and Latino singer Fernando Allende.