In her latest post, Gazini Ganados pours her heart out, painting a vivid picture of her family’s reality amidst the Gaza-Israel conflict
In her most recent Instagram post, Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados has chosen to use her platform to speak up about an issue that is close to her heart. In the shadow of an escalating global crisis, she shared a photograph of her father, who is currently hospitalized due to the ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict. With the death toll in Gaza surging past 4,000 as of writing and the region plagued by relentless bombings and uncertainty, Gazini uses her influence to raise awareness and, most significantly, express her concern for her family during these trying times.
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A daughter’s love letter
The former Miss Universe Philippines, overwhelmed by the turmoil of the ongoing war, spoke her truth: “Sick to my stomach.” These words accompanied an image of her father and a few screenshots of her conversations with her family. “This has been a heartbreaking week for so many of us. I’m scared, disturbed, deeply saddened. We can always be doing more,” she added. Breaking her silence on the Israel-Palestine conflict, she emphasized the crucial need to reveal the harsh realities at hand. It’s important to note that Gazini’s first meeting with her father occurred a mere three years ago, adding a layer of depth to where she is coming from.
It can also be recalled that in 2021, she shared a glimpse of life in Palestinian territory through her Instagram story. “My papa is showing me what 7 p.m. looks like in Gaza. I can only imagine the trauma my brothers and sisters are going through and hope for them to still remain kind and hopeful in this cruel situation. I’m praying for everyone’s safety,” she expressed, reminding us of the significance of compassion in the face of adversity.
Her plea amidst rising tensions
“I don’t know if we will live or die in the end. I want to tell you that I love you.” These words, shared through the beauty queen’s photos, carry an emotional weight that resonates deeply. She conveyed, “I would like to express my deep sorrow for the Israelis who have lost their lives and been injured in the dreadful terrorist attacks. Hamas killing civilians was HORRIBLE,” while vehemently condemning the tragic loss of civilian lives caused by Israel’s counterattack, expressing that “killing 10 [times] more civilians is beyond insane.”
The beauty queen not only shared her worries for her father and family, but also raised a question that is simple yet profound: “How can so many be so silent? What are you scared of? Scared to defend basic human rights as innocent people are murdered.”
Beyond beauty
In a touching display of sisterhood, other women offered their support and prayers to their fellow beauty queen and her family. Her Miss Universe Philippines sisters also didn’t hold back in showing their solidarity and concern. Miss Universe Philippines 2014 MJ Lastimosa couldn’t help but feel disheartened by the situation, while Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach found the level of horror and violence unimaginable. Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Beatrice Luigi Gomez, who had competed in Israel, reminded us of the significance of praying for the innocent, especially vulnerable women and children. These beauty queens serve as a reminder that in today’s world, our active involvement in global issues, marked by compassion and understanding, is more vital than ever.
Photos: GAZINI GANADOS (via Instagram)
