Vina Joy Verzosa

Why are you joining the contest?

It was once an unexpected day that I was selected as one of the "Diwa ng Kalayaan" candidates. It is a very prestigious event that I never imagined myself being a part of it. My decision wasn't an easy one to make. A lot of questions and anxieties entered my mind that made me doubt my capabilities, but all of those queries were cleared by my family. My family is the major reason why I engaged in this competition, because of their strong support, encouragement and confidence in me, I was able to make a decision that I know I will never regret for the rest of my life. Taking part in it is also a great challenge for me. Being a Filipino is something to be proud of.

What would you like to achieve if you receive the prestigious title of Diwa ng Kalayaan 2004?

If given a chance to be crowned of the prestigious title, it is a great honor and privilege for me to represent any Filipino community wherever I may be. I want to instill to the Filipinos that even though we're thousands of miles away from our native land, the values of being a Filipino will always remain within our hearts and mind. It will also be an achievement for me if I can lead my fellowmen to be united and say the words, "I am a Filipino and I'm proud to be one.".