The newly crowned Miss Philippines Earth’s sharp-tongued posts about her country’s deepening flood control corruption scandal have earned her both praise and warnings that she could lose her crown.
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Joy Barcoma has become an unexpected commentator on the growing political controversy, weighing in with biting humour and fierce advocacy that has won her a legion of new fans who refer to her as “my queen”.
Some have urged Barcoma to stay silent to preserve her shot at the international title, but the 26-year-old – who is also a public relations manager and government consultant – has insisted that “a crown gained at the expense of my people and my purpose would mean nothing”.
The latest controversy erupted after contractors Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya and Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya testified before a Senate inquiry on Monday, naming nearly 20 lawmakers and public works officials they accused of demanding kickbacks in exchange for flood control contracts.
The couple – dubbed the “king and queen of flood control” for their firms’ dominance in securing billions of pesos in projects – offered to turn state witness, though their credibility has come under scrutiny and those named have issued strong denials.
Barcoma responded to their testimony with a quip that tapped into public outrage. “Congratulations to all the politicians with Latin honours today,” she wrote. “Happy graduation!” The line, referencing honours such as cum laude, sarcastically suggested the accused officials were being rewarded for corruption.