Miss. Queen of the World Daerein Gonzales

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Daerein Pascual Gonzales is a 21-year-old student at Holy Angel University, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. Proudly born and raised in the Mother Barrio of Barangay Sapang Biabas, Mabalacat City, she embodies the strength, resilience, and warmth of her Kapampangan and Mabalaqueño heritage.

Her advocacy for youth empowerment began long before she stepped into the spotlight of pageantry. What started as humble service in her local parish transformed into a life-changing mission. One day, while serving quietly behind the scenes, the parish priest recognized something in her—a spark of leadership, a sense of purpose—and appointed her as the youth president. Though she was uncertain and afraid, she didn’t hesitate to say yes. She believed deeply that this was her calling.

At the time, the youth ministry had only four members. Undeterred, Daerein walked from house to house in her community, inviting others to join her mission. Through sheer determination and a heart full of hope, she brought in over 40 new youth ministers. Her commitment and leadership didn’t go unnoticed; she was later promoted as the parish youth leader.

Yet, this recognition didn’t come without criticism. Many questioned how she attained the position so quickly, doubting her capability and watching closely for her to fail. But Daerein stood tall. Rather than defend herself with words, she let her actions speak louder. She attended countless conventions to gain wisdom and grow in confidence. She organized events, assemblies, and seminars that reignited the passion and faith of the youth. What once was a small, quiet group has now become a thriving, active ministry—and a true family.

From this journey, Daerein was inspired to create her advocacy: “KayanACTkan”—a name rooted in the Kapampangan word kayanakan (youth) and the English word act, symbolizing a call to action. With its four core values—Faith, Fun, Friendship, and Family—KayanACTkan seeks to uplift and empower young people, helping them find their voice, their community, and their purpose.

Her pageantry journey mirrors this same tenacity and transformation. It began at Holy Angel University, where she was crowned Ms. School of Business and Accountancy 2022. Though she didn’t win the crown at Ms. Holy Angel University 2023 or Miss Mabalacat City 2023, she rose again, earning the title Mutya ning Sapang Biabas 2023 and placing as Second Runner-Up in Mutya ng Pilipinas Pampanga 2024.

But it was in Queen of the World Philippines 2024 where she truly shined, taking home the national crown. On May 10, 2025, she stood on the international stage in New York City, representing the Philippines at Queen of the World International 2025. Alone in a foreign country, she found strength within herself—and emerged victorious as Miss Queen of the World International 2025.

Daerein’s story is not one of instant triumph, but of growth through challenge, and courage through criticism. From walking door to door in her barangay to walking the stage of an international crown, she has proven that purpose, passion, and faith can take you anywhere. Now with the global platform of the Queen of the World organization, she is ready to take KayanACTkan to even greater heights—touching more lives, sharing more stories, and building a stronger, united youth, one act at a time.