Bea Magtanong

Binibining Pilipinas was Magtanong's first-ever beauty pageant competition. During the finals held on 9 June 2019 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, she was recognized with special awards Bb. Megaworld and Best in Swimsuit. She succeeded Ahtisa Manalo after being crowned 2019 Binibining Pilipinas International, becoming the country's representative to the Miss International 2019 competition slated 12 November at the Tokyo Dome City Hall in Tokyo, Japan.[10][11]

During the 2019 Binibining Pilipinas question and answer round, Magtanong was asked: "If you could have the opportunity to meet somebody globally influential, who would that be and why?" To which she replied:

"I really idolize Angelina Jolie because she is blessed with not just a thriving career in Hollywood, but then as a woman, she is able to use that influence, that voice, and that audience to advocate for the causes that she believes in, like breaking world hunger with the UN. And someday, if given the chance, I would like to be just like her. Thank you."[12]

She stated in a subsequent interview that she was aiming to win the Miss Universe Philippines crown to strengthen emphasis and further her advocacy on social justice, particularly on the rights of prisoners[13][14] but added, in conclusion, that she is very happy with the 2019 Binibining Pilipinas International title she now holds, and is looking forward to using her platform for the causes she believes in.[15]

On 12 November 2019, Magtanong represented the Philippines at the Miss International 2019 pageant in Tokyo, Japan. During the speech portion of the pageant, the Top 8 finalists were given the chance to express themselves on why they should be the next Miss International. Magtanong's speech read:[16]

"When I was younger, I found it strange that I was subjected to different standards as other boys my age. When I got older and even more so when I became a lawyer, I began to question these standards and challenge them. Why should women live in fear of harassment, violence, and discrimination when basic human decency calls for respect, tolerance, and compassion? To cheer all women means to support all women regardless of their race, religion, or background. But not only this – it also means to remove the barriers that prevent women from realizing their full potential. Miss International does this by fostering a global culture of women empowerment and gender equality. And through this platform, we can ensure that no woman anytime, anywhere is left behind."[16]

At the end of the pageant, she finished as one of the Top 8 finalists.[6]