By Domsy Ramos | An epitome of beauty inside and out is thriving in such a splendor Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte, Philippines.
A regular in helping others she is a woman whose commitment to make other’s lives easier had been unfathomable. What more? Alongside such compassion, sympathy and empathy to others which makes her a Gintong Parangal Service Awardee is the grace of a beauty queen that she is.
Marianne Acuna Shankle, is a life defined by service, compassion, unwavering commitment to help others and a beauty queen. She was Mrs. Tourism USA 3rd runner-up on 2023; Mrs. Washington State USA Elite; Mrs. Grand Universe on 2023; and Woman of the World on 2024— beauty titles and recognitions that reflect not only her grace and poise, but her dedication in representing the Filipino community abroad with distinction.
A proud Filipina-American, Marianne has served as Past President of the Filipino American Association, where she worked tirelessly to strengthen cultural ties, support fellow immigrants, and build bridges between communities. Her leadership left a lasting mark on all who were fortunate enough to work alongside her. At the heart of Marianne’s advocacy is a deep commitment to protecting the vulnerable. She has long championed the cause of survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, lending her voice and her time to ensure that those who have suffered are heard, supported, and empowered to heal.
Her generosity extends across many causes. As a dedicated philanthropist and community activist, Marianne consistently shows up wherever she is needed — whether organizing outreach programs, supporting local initiatives, or simply being a steadfast presence for those around her. Her initiatives for the children hailed her as The Gintong Parangal service awardee.
A daughter of Belinda Acuna, an Elementary School Teacher and
Graciano Boy Acuna, a former Barangay Captain of Tabacao,
Talavera Nueva Ecija, Ms. Marianne grew with such a virtue.
By profession, Marianne is a nurse. therapist, Phlebotomist and a loving caregiver — a calling that speaks volumes about her character. Her patients and colleagues know her as hardworking, compassionate, and deeply devoted to the well-being of those in her care.
Ms. Marianne is also a passionate advocate for animal welfare. She believed that kindness and responsibility toward all living beings is a picture of a truly caring community. Above all, she is a devoted mother and wife — the role she holds most dear.
Marianne and her family discovered Samal Island in 2022. They readily get smitten and fell in love with the beauty, the beaches, and its people.
She bought a beachfront lot in Brgy Libertad, Tucanga and after visiting a number of times, she and her family moved to the island for good in 2025.
“We are staying here in Samal Island for good,” she added.
Ms. Marianne is married to Steve Shankle who is now a retired Energy Scientist in the US. They have 4 children and two of whom are living with the couple. The entire family is said to be enjoying the beautiful Island of Samal.
“My plan in the future is to continue helping our community with issues like securing their land ownership and women’s empowerment and public health. I would like to grow projects like the one I recently participated in a Medical Mission in Aundanao Samal Island. In my free time I enjoy gardening & planting beautiful flowers in my property. We are also taking care of growing numbers of local dogs & cats to ensure they are fed,” she revealed.
Bannering her advocacy and enjoying the island life, the couple, especially Ms. Marianne drew a lot of friends.
“We are fortunate to have Marianne Acuna Shankle among us. Her warmth, her energy, and her heart for service will no doubt enrich our community in countless ways,” her helper said. #