Fiji has been confirmed to pull out of the Miss Pacific Islands 2018 due to personal reasons. This is the first time for Miss Fiji to not join the Miss Pacific Islands pageants competition as they usually join every year.
Seven contestants are vying for the Miss Pacific Islands 2018 title including American Samoa, Cook Islands, Papua New Guinea, Rapanui, Samoa, Tuvalu and Tonga.
However, so far, only 5 have registered to take part in this year’s event including Miss PNG – Leoshina Mercy Kariha, Miss Samoa – Sonia Piva, Miss American Samoa – Magalita Johnson, Miss Tuvalu – Emelipelesa Panapa, and Miss Tonga – Kalolaine Funganitao.
However, in a press conference with Tonga’s working committee for the Miss Pacific Islands, the Vice chairperson – Dafolsa Bloomfield discussed the program that has been set out for this year.
The program will begin with a combined prayer service at the Centenary Church in Nuku’alofa also an orientation for the girls.
Part of the program includes a charity visit to the Children’s ward at Vaiola Hospital also a royal luncheon hosted by Her Majesty Queen Nanasipau’u at Polata’ane Residence.
The usual events including talent night, island creation and sarong wear will be held at ‘Atele Indoor Stadium.
The program will conclude with a ball night where the Reigning Miss Pacific Islands – Matauaina Toomalatai will crown the Miss Pacific Islands for 2018 before the contestants depart to their various countries the following day.
This is the fourth time Tonga has hosted the competition, and 2 Miss Tonga have won the competition, namely; Tessi Toluta’u in 2007 and Ma’ata Moungaloa in 1995.
The Miss South Pacific Pageant was established in 1987 by the Government of Samoa as a regional event to recognize and promote the attributes, intelligence, and talents of Pacific Island women.
The pageant recognizes Pacific Island women, their contributions to regional affairs, and their ability to advance in diverse fields.