Introduction
In a dazzling celebration of beauty, intelligence, and environmental advocacy, Joy Barcoma of Bacoor City emerged victorious as Miss Philippines Earth 2025, capturing not just the crown but the hearts of millions. Held at the opulent Okada Manila on August 10, 2025, the 25th anniversary of the pageant – aptly themed “The Silver Lining” – marked a milestone in the country’s commitment to environmentalism and empowered womanhood.
Table of Contents
Humble Beginnings in Bacoor City
Joy Barcoma hails from Bacoor City, Cavite, a bustling urban area south of Metro Manila. As the eldest among her siblings, Joy’s childhood was shaped by responsibility and leadership. In her own words, “That sense of leadership shaped who I am today.” Growing up in a modest household, she quickly learned the value of hard work and sacrifice.
Her family’s financial situation meant that luxuries were rare, and opportunities had to be earned. Yet, Joy never allowed these limitations to define her. Instead, she used them as fuel to push forward, determined to carve out a future not just for herself, but for her family.
Working at 15: A Teenager with a Mission
At just 15 years old, Joy Barcoma began working as an extra in film and television shoots to support herself. This wasn’t a hobby or a fleeting interest – it was a necessity. She needed to earn money to continue her education, and she did so with remarkable tenacity.
In a 2021 interview, she shared, “I had to push further with my studies by sending myself to school. It was hard, but there is nothing that you cannot do as long as it’s for the people you love and for your family.” This quote encapsulates the essence of Joy’s character: selfless, determined, and deeply rooted in familial love.
Pursuing Education Against the Odds
Joy Barcoma’s educational journey is a testament to her unwavering resolve. While many of her peers enjoyed the typical student life, Joy juggled academics with work. She was her own sponsor, navigating the challenges of tuition fees, school supplies, and daily expenses – all while maintaining her grades.
Though specific details about her college or course of study have not been publicly disclosed, her commitment to education is evident in her articulate speech and advocacy work. Her ability to speak passionately about environmental issues and social responsibility suggests a background steeped in learning and awareness.
The Coronation Night: A Silver Celebration
The grand finale of Miss Philippines Earth 2025 was nothing short of spectacular. With 35 candidates from across the Philippines and overseas Filipino communities, the competition was fierce, but Joy Barcoma stood out from the beginning. Her poise, eloquence, and unwavering commitment to environmental causes made her an early crowd favorite.
During the final Q&A round, Joy was asked: “How would you utilize the platform of Miss Philippines Earth to make a positive impact in the community?” Her answer was both powerful and visionary:
She answered that for 25 years, Miss Philippines Earth has led the way in championing environmentalism. As a hopeful queen of the organization, she envisions inspiring eco-consciousness among the youth, fostering smart innovations, and encouraging inclusive investments in the Philippines to drive progress. Through her vision, she aims to show that they are not only women of the earth – but also women of the future.
This response not only sealed her win but also showcased the depth of her advocacy and intellect.
A Queen with a Cause: Disaster Resilience and Humanity
Joy Barcoma isn’t just a beauty queen – she’s a Disaster Preparedness and Resilience advocate, a cause close to her heart and deeply relevant to the Philippines, a country frequently affected by natural calamities. Her advocacy focuses on empowering communities to be proactive and resilient in the face of environmental challenges.
In another segment of the pageant, Joy picked the hashtag #Humanity and delivered a compelling message:
She said that people can often be so self-centered, always focused on what’s best for themselves rather than what’s best for humanity. When individuals begin to consider the impact of their decisions, they also become accountable for their actions. It is high time humanity protects the Earth by protecting one another – and in doing so, safeguards the future generation.
Her words resonated deeply, reminding everyone that environmentalism is not just about nature – it’s about people, communities, and the legacy we leave behind.
From Humble Beginnings to National Stardom
Joy Barcoma’s journey to the crown is a story of grit and grace. Born and raised in Bacoor, Cavite, she is the eldest among her siblings and learned responsibility early on. In her Miss Philippines Earth introduction video, she shared how she started working as a shoot extra at age 15 to support her education. A graduate of Broadcast Communication from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Joy is a self-made woman who defied odds to pursue her dreams.
“It was hard, but there is nothing that you cannot do as long as it’s for the people you love and for your family,” she said in a 2021 interview.
Her background adds depth to her crown – she’s not just representing beauty, but resilience, ambition, and compassion.
A Pageant Veteran with a Purpose
Before clinching the Miss Philippines Earth title, Joy Barcoma had already made her mark in the pageant world. She competed in Miss World Philippines 2021, gaining valuable experience and honing her public speaking skills. Her eloquence and confidence were evident throughout the 2025 competition, making her a standout among seasoned contenders.
The Elemental Court: Queens United for the Earth
Joining Joy in the elemental court are four remarkable women:
| Title | Winner | Region |
| Miss Philippines Air | Maria Flordeliz Mabao | Antipolo City |
| Miss Philippines Water | Angel Rose Campo Tambal | La Paz, Leyte |
| Miss Philippines Fire | Jaymie Strickland | Filipino Community, Florida, USA |
| Miss Philippines Ecotourism | Kriezl Jane Torres | Talakag, Bukidnon |
Together, these queens form a united front for environmental advocacy, each bringing unique perspectives and regional insights to the national platform.
Looking Ahead: Miss Earth 2025
Joy Barcoma will now represent the Philippines at the Miss Earth 2025 international pageant, where she hopes to secure the country’s fifth crown. The Philippines has a proud history in Miss Earth, with past winners including:
- Karla Henry (2008)
- Jamie Herrell (2014)
- Angelia Ong (2015)
- Karen Ibasco (2017)
With her charisma, advocacy, and experience, Joy is poised to be a strong contender on the global stage.
A Queen for the Earth: Joy Barcoma’s Social and Charity Work as Miss Philippines Earth 2025
Beyond the crown and sash, Joy Barcoma represents a new generation of beauty queens – those who wield their influence not just for glamour, but for meaningful change. Her reign is marked by a deep commitment to environmental advocacy, community empowerment, and social responsibility.
Advocacy: Eco-Consciousness and Youth Empowerment
Joy Barcoma’s core advocacy revolves around environmental sustainability and youth engagement. Her campaign, dubbed #JoyToTheWorld, seeks to inspire young Filipinos to become stewards of the Earth. She believes that the future of environmental protection lies in educating and empowering the next generation.
Key Initiatives:
- Eco-Education Workshops: Joy has partnered with local schools and youth organizations to conduct workshops on climate change, waste management, and sustainable living.
- Green Innovation Challenges: She launched a nationwide competition encouraging students to develop eco-friendly solutions for everyday problems.
- Youth Ambassadors for the Earth: A mentorship program that trains young leaders to advocate for environmental issues in their communities.
Charity Work and Community Engagement
Joy Barcoma’s commitment to social work is as strong as her environmental advocacy. She has been actively involved in various charitable initiatives, particularly in underserved communities across Cavite and nearby provinces.
Highlights of Her Charity Work:
- Tree Planting and Coastal Clean-Ups: Joy regularly leads environmental clean-up drives, mobilizing volunteers to restore degraded ecosystems.
- Livelihood Programs for Women: In partnership with local NGOs, she supports training programs that teach women sustainable crafts and eco-entrepreneurship.
- Disaster Relief Efforts: Following typhoons and natural calamities, Joy has organized donation drives and personally delivered aid to affected families.
- Mental Health and Wellness Campaigns: Recognizing the emotional toll of environmental disasters, she advocates for mental health support in vulnerable communities.
Embodying the Sampaguita Spirit
Joy Barcoma was also awarded the title Miss Megaworld Hotels & Resorts – Sampaguita Woman of Substance, a recognition that celebrates values like love, honor, dignity, and healing. These values are evident in how she approaches her role – not just as a beauty queen, but as a compassionate leader.
Global Vision: Representing the Philippines at Miss Earth 2025
Joy Barcoma will represent the Philippines at the international Miss Earth 2025 pageant. Her goal is to bring global attention to the environmental challenges faced by developing nations and showcase the resilience and innovation of Filipino communities.
She plans to highlight:
- The impact of climate change on coastal towns in the Philippines
- The role of indigenous knowledge in environmental conservation
- The importance of inclusive environmental policies
Public Reception and Legacy
Joy Barcoma’s reign has already sparked conversations about the evolving role of beauty queens in society. Netizens and pageant fans alike have praised her for her sincerity, intelligence, and hands-on approach to advocacy.
Her legacy is shaping up to be one of transformation – not just within the pageant world, but in the broader movement for environmental and social justice.
Final Thoughts: A Queen for the Times
Joy Barcoma’s coronation as Miss Philippines Earth 2025 is a celebration of beauty with a purpose. Her story – from humble beginnings to national recognition – is a beacon of hope and inspiration. As she prepares to take on the international stage, she carries with her the dreams of a nation and the promise of a better, greener future.
Here’s to Joy Barcoma – our eco-warrior queen, our voice for humanity, and our hope for the Earth.
Also read about “Nadia Mejia: Miss Universe Ecuador 2025 – A Crown Earned with Grace and Grit“.