A 69-year-old fashion designer is hoping to clinch the Miss Universe Philippines - Quezon City (MUPHQC) crown next month.

Jocelyn Cubales joined the competition because of her belief that the "younger generation can learn a lot from her life experiences, most especially grit," according to MUPHQC.

The Miss Universe Organization has removed the age limit for candidates joining its pageants worldwide.

Jocelyn has five beauty titles, namely Mrs. Philippines Germany 2000, Mrs. Philippines for Mrs. Asia International 2014, Mrs. Asia International 2014, Mrs. Asia International Global 2014, and Mrs. Ecotourism 2014.

She was also once a representative of South Asia in the Mrs. Universe 2017 pageant.

Jocelyn's husband and singer-actor Marc Cubales expressed support for her and described her as a woman with "honour and dignity who can represent our country well."

Marc also advised her to ignore critics, asserting that deserving women should be a part of the prestigious competition.

"Her good and honest compassionate heart makes her a real beauty queen to all of us," he said in a Facebook post.

"I love you and you are loved by everyone, especially those that you’ve already touched with your good heart and soul."

The coronation night for the MUPHQC crown is set for Feb. 5.

If Jocelyn wins, she will advance to the national stage and compete for the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 crown