The last Filipina standing in the latest season of Asia’s Next Top Model appeared in front of Davao media, bloggers, and fashion enthusiasts to talk about modeling on an international scale, the fierce fashion she had the chance to flaunt, and the invaluable lessons she gained from her time on the show.

Monika Sta. Maria, the first runner-up of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 3, shared her insights and experiences in Abreeza’s monthly Fashion Forum on July 23, 2015. Monika had recently competed against 13 other contestants from the region in the show which was shot in Singapore and broadcast from March to June 2015. She placed second to Cycle 3 winner, Ayu Gani from Indonesia.

A model, competitive volleyball player, and De La Salle University psychology graduate who won the Century Tuna Superbods competition in 2012, Monika had earlier tried out for the show’s Cycle 2, which featured Filipinas Jodilly Pendre and Katarina Rodriguez, but didn't make the cut. After successfully auditioning for the third season of the Asian franchise of the hit modeling reality TV show, Monika was one of three Filipina women including Amanda Chan and Davaoeña Franchesca Lagua to make it to the competition. 

I am one of those very lucky ones to finally meet her and get to know her more. I was thrilled of knowing how she started, how she never stopped believing, how she actually made it. I will never forget her answer to my question. She said she thinks she'd given her all so there's nothing she could think that she couldv'e done in the competition and when asked what advice to give to aspiring model aside from the typical "be yourself and never stop", she said if you wanna succeed in modeling, you need to do something different to stand out. There's something remarkable about her. Monika Sta. Maria, when she speaks, she's herself. Very true, walang halong showbiz. 

Monika stayed for a photo opportunity with fans after the Fashion Forum, much to the delight of her Davaoeño admirers.

Monika with the Davao Bloggers

The Fashion Forum is a monthly convergence of fashion and lifestyle press, bloggers, designers, insiders, students, and enthusiasts that serves as a platform for the discussion and promotion of notable trends, projects, personalities, brands, ideas, and more. Through the Fashion Forum, Abreeza Mall hopes to nurture and spread a stronger style consciousness in Davao City with the support and collaboration of industry professionals, members of the media, and local fashion fans.

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