MERLE SNOW
Executive Director
Merle Snow is a highly accomplished, multi-talented Filipina-American entrepreneur, interpreter, and community leader based in Rochester, New York. Her career spans business, cultural advocacy, and nonprofit service—driven by a deep commitment to uplifting her community and honoring her Filipino heritage.
She is the owner of Lil-m Sari Sari Filipino Store, a well-known cultural hub in Rochester that connects the community through Filipino goods, food, and traditions. Merle also leads Lil-m Productions and the Philippine Dance Company of Rochester, which showcase Filipino culture through performing arts and education.
Professionally trained as an accountant, Merle has spent over 25 years working for a local nonprofit organization. She also serves the community as a skilled interpreter, helping individuals and families overcome language barriers and access essential services.
A two-time cancer survivor, Merle is a passionate advocate for cancer awareness and early detection, using her personal experience to educate and encourage others—especially women—to take proactive steps for their health.
Known throughout the community as a genuinely helpful and compassionate person, Merle consistently gives her time, energy, and support to those in need. Her work reflects her belief in the power of service, cultural pride, and community unity.
MISSION
Our organization exists to empower women to become the best version of themselves, grounded in humanitarian values and a strong commitment to representing the Filipino-American (Fil-Am) community. We are dedicated to celebrating the diversity, richness, and vibrancy of Filipino culture, fostering leadership, and advocating for positive social change.
Get ready for one of the most exciting and impactful events in the Filipino-American community—The Miss Philippines New York Pageant!
This dynamic event celebrates the beauty, talent, intelligence, and cultural pride of the Filipino-American community across New York State. More than just a competition, it’s a platform for unity, empowerment, and advocacy.
The pageant features multiple categories—Miss, Mrs., Ms., Miss Young, and Little Miss Philippines New York—highlighting the strength and diversity of Fil-Am women at every stage of life.
Contestants showcase not only physical beauty but also leadership, compassion, and commitment to social causes. They gain a powerful platform to raise awareness, promote advocacy, and support meaningful community work.
We’re looking for exceptional Fil-Am women who are intelligent, culturally rooted, and passionate about making a positive difference. If you’re ready to lead, inspire, and uplift your community, this is your moment.
Miss Philippines New York is more than a pageant—it’s a celebration of heritage, a launchpad for leadership, and a voice for change. Join us in honoring the next generation of cultural ambassadors.
MEET THE TEAM
MAYRELL MUSHTARE
Assistant Executive Director I Mrs. Philippines New York 2025 - 1st Runner-Up
Mayrell Mushtare is a driven entrepreneur and the founder of Mayrelle LLC, a fashion accessories brand known for its elegance and versatility. As a proud military spouse, she has balanced the demands of entrepreneurship with the responsibilities of supporting her active-duty husband and raising their daughter.
Following several years stationed in South Korea, Mayrell has recently returned to the United States and currently operates her business remotely from Missouri. Her resilience, creativity, and commitment to both family and career continue to inspire those around her.
In recognition of her grace, confidence, and community involvement, Mayrell was recently named 1st Runner-Up in the Mrs. Philippines New York 2025 pageant.
NELSON FIGUEROA FONTANEZ
Stage Director
Nelson Figueroa is a Fine Arts Instructor with over fourteen years of experience in the artistic world. He specializes in dance, acting, modeling, makeup, and fashion design. He graduated from designer Namibia Viera’s fashion school in Puerto Rico and also received training from renowned Puerto Rican designer Lisa Thon.
In the modeling world, he has trained numerous contestants for international pageants, including Miss Beauty Global 2023, Miss Universal Petite 2023, and others. Nelson has also earned over seven international and national titles himself, including Miss Worldwide International 2022, Miss World Chicago Latina 2019, Miss Gay Puerto Rico Plus 2022, among others.
CATHERINE ACETO
Executive Assistant
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Catherine Aceto – has dedicated over 10 years to her career as a Registered Nurse and currently serves as a travelling nurse. Her passion for helping others extends beyond her professional life, as she actively engages in community service. Since 2013, she as been a senior member of the Philippine Dance Company of Rochester, where her love for the arts flourishes through performance. Currently, Catherine is the Dance Instructor for the kids Division of the Philippine Dance Company of Rochester. She is also devoted wife and mother of three, with two of her children now proudly joining her in the dance company.
ROSINA MILLER
Mentor
Miss Military Star New York 2025
Rosina Miller, currently holds the Miss Military Star New York 2025. Rosina has been in the pageantry ,modeling, and performing for over 30 years .She has held numerous local , state and national titles.She has a passion for her family and community service being married and a mother of two.
SHERELEA NUNEZ
Production Manager
Sherelea Nunez - is not just a dedicated nurse practitioner, she embodies the spirit of service that spans both local and international communities. Her leadership experience in non profit organizations made her a perfect fit for our organization.
She is honored to serve the committee for Miss Philippines New York, where her multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment to her community make her a remarkable representative of Filipino culture.
ADELAIDA CRESPO
Assistant
Adelaida Crespo is a dedicated entrepreneur and retail professional at an airport shop, known for her positive energy, exceptional customer service, and ability to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for travelers. In addition to her retail work, she successfully runs a small business, showcasing her creativity, initiative, and determination.
Adelaida is deeply committed to helping others, consistently offering support and kindness both at work and in her personal life. Her strong work ethic, compassion, and entrepreneurial spirit make her a respected and valued member of her community.
EVAN SNOW
Technical Support
Evan Snow, a Hilton, New York native, began his career in the U.S. Air Force in 1979, where he was stationed in the Philippines and developed expertise in machining and computer science.
Over the next 40 years, he built a successful career as a computer technician, specializing in system diagnostics, hardware repair, and electronics troubleshooting.
Now retired, Evan remains active by providing computer repair services, supporting electronics recycling, and promoting digital access and sustainability in his community. He is also passionate about the arts and creative design, often engaging in hands-on projects that showcase his blend of technical skill, military discipline, and artistic talent