On her birthday, it was Tarlac’s reigning beauty queen who came bearing the gifts.
Binibining Kanlahi 2026 Jean Grai De Jesus, Tarlac’s representative to Miss Universe Philippines 2027, marked her birthday today with 30 children at Rehoboth Children’s Home in Barangay Sta. Maria, Camiling. Each child received a backpack filled with school supplies, and the afternoon included a magic show, a shared meal, food carts and a photo booth.
“There’s just something about seeing them smile and feel happy over the simplest things that makes my heart so full,” De Jesus said.
Asked what she wished for, the beauty queen said, “My birthday wishes aren’t actually for myself.” She named only two: to compete at Miss Universe Philippines and make proud the team that has stood behind her, and to give back even more to her parents. Her own dreams, she added, will come in God’s perfect timing.
The outreach was De Jesus’s own initiative. She said her advocacy work in recent months showed her how fulfilling it is to give back, especially to children, and she thanked the supporters who helped turn a long-planned visit into reality.
Speaking to the children, De Jesus shared that she, too, grew up with big dreams. She encouraged them to study hard, believe in themselves and keep their faith in God, reminding them that where they start in life does not decide how far they can go.
“One of the most beautiful feelings in life is not just being able to receive blessings, but also having the opportunity to share them with others,” she said.
De Jesus was crowned Binibining Kanlahi 2026 on March 6 at Maria Cristina Park, representing Tarlac City, two years after finishing first runner-up in the same pageant. She will carry the province’s banner at Miss Universe Philippines 2027.
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