Colombia holds gay Miss Universe beauty pageant

MEDELLÍN, Colombia — The Colombian city of Medellin holds its Gay Miss Universe Beauty pageant where transsexuals and drag queens take to the stage and represent a country of their choice after weeks of practicing choreographies and catwalks.

Nine candidates in total, 8 Colombians and 1 Venezuelan, participated in this year’s Miss Universe Gay in Colombia.

Each participant chooses which country he or she wishes to represent .

2019 was the second version of this specific competition, even if according to the organizer there are between 4-8 competitions like this in Colombia per year.

The competition isn’t officially part of Miss Universe The objective is more the creation of a space for the LGBTI community to have fun in and put on a show.

The winner receives certain prizes, of which there is wigs, a million pesos (330 $US) and a ticket to take part in Miss Gay International which takes place in Bogota.

The bar becomes packed for the competition. On March 16th, around 300 people arrived to watch the show which takes places between 11pm and 4am.

source: philstar.com

After winning Miss Universe, Catriona surpasses 2 million followers on Instagram

MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray achieved an impressive social media milestone after she won the crown and sash of the prestigious beauty pageant.

Catriona gained more than one million followers on Instagram in less than a day. As of posting, the 24-year-old beauty queen has 2.4 million followers.


She just reached one million followers on Instagram on the eve of the Miss Universe coronation.


Her first Instagram post after being crowned the newest Miss Universe has more than one million likes.

“Philippines, what an amazing honor it has been to carry your name across my chest and to embody you in all aspects. I may now carry the sash of Miss Universe, but I’ll forever be your Miss Universe,” she wrote.

Catriona’s Facebook page is nearing the one million mark at 964,134 likes. Her Twitter account, meanwhile, has more than 299,000 followers.

Catriona was crowned as the newest Miss Universe Monday at Thailand capital’s Impact Arena. She became the fourth Filipina to win the international pageant, following the footsteps of Gloria Diaz (1969), Margie Moran (1973) and Pia Wurtzbach (2015).  — Gaea Katreena Cabico

source: philstar.com

'This is it': Catriona Gray dedicates Miss Universe journey to Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Hours before the much-awaited coronation day, Philippines’ Catriona Gray dedicated her Miss Universe journey to her home country.

In an Instagram post, Catriona, 24, recalled her experience being a candidate for Binibining Pilipinas (Miss Philippines) and being chosen to compete in the Miss Universe pageant.

“Philippines, this is it. What an amazing journey this has been - from day one back in January 2018 of announcing candidacy [for Binibining Pilipinas] to today,” the Bicolana beauty wrote.

“Philippines, you have endlessly inspired me, given me strength and support. I want nothing more than to bring pride to you and give my all to give the best Christmas gift ever to my country,” she added.

“Mahal kita, Philippines. Para sayo 'to. Stand by me prayer warriors, laban tayo.”

Catriona is eyeing to bring the Miss Universe crown back to the Philippines and follow the footsteps of Pia Wurtzbach, who won the crown three years ago.

The Miss Universe crown and sash will be awarded Monday. — Ian Nicolas Cigaral

source: philstar.com

#TeamCatrionaGray: Filipino supporters arrive in Thailand ahead of Miss Universe 2018

BANGKOK, Thailand — Two days before the final competition of Miss Universe 2018, some Filipinos flew from Philippines to Thailand just to support Filipina bet Catriona Gray.

On Saturday afternoon, a number of Filipino supporters turned heads at the Suvarnabhumi airport as they donned the replica crowns of Miss Universe and sash to proudly show support for Catriona.

These Filipinos who flew from Manila found they shared love for Miss Universe pageant when they arrived at the airport. They are set to watch the live coronation event of the pageant slated Monday morning (Philippine time.)


Pageant enthusiast Albert Paran, who came all the way from Cebu, said he is very excited to watch the pageant live. He is a fan of Catriona.

“Parang dream come true,” he said, adding that Catriona's victory is his Christmas wish.

Also present in Bangkok is former Miss Universe 2011 3rd runner-up Shamcey Supsup-Lee. She also wore the replica Mikimoto and diamond blue sapphire crowns brought by doctor Loyd Brendan Norella.

Loyd is one of the volunteers of LoveYourself Inc., an HIV advocacy group that Catriona supports.

He said he also traveled to Bangkok to support his friend Catriona

Win or lose, Loyd said he is proud that the Philippines was beautifully represented by Catriona.

On Wednesday, Filipino-American and YouTube vlogger Jerome Bediones also arrived in Bangkok to watch the Miss Universe pageant and back Catriona. He flew from Washington State.

Jerome watched the preliminary pageant which he said was nailed by the 24-year-old Filipina bet.

“Philippines, Catriona Gray, stole the show. So much confidence with her walk, and it may sound biased (I really don't think so) but she has the whole package when it comes to being a Miss Universe. Just looking at her, you can tell she leads with empathy and compassion, but also is stunning,” Jerome said.

Meanwhile, Albert Paran and retired flight attendant and registered nurse Mickey Rodriguez said they will both wear national costumes on Monday.

Albert said he had Philippine traditional clothing kimona designed for the pageant while Mickey said he will wear barong Tagalog.

“Gusto kasi niya (Catriona) nationalistic,” Mickey said.

Other supporters said they will wear tuxedo that bears Philippine flag.

Catriona, a former candidate for Miss World, is set to compete against 93 other representatives from across the globe at the Impact Arena in Bangkok on Monday. She is vying to bring back the crown to the Philippines three years after Pia Wurtzbach won the pageant in 2015.

source: philstar.com

Miss USA apologizes for 'racist' comments vs Vietnam, Cambodia

MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe USA Sarah Rose Summers apologized on her Instagram account for a video where she was allegedly making fun of her fellow pageant contenders’ difficulty in speaking English.

Sarah Rose posted a photo of her hugging Miss Universe Cambodia Rern Sinat. Also in the photo are Miss Universe Australia Francesca Hung, Miss Universe Colombia Valeria Morales Delgado and Miss Universe Vietnam H’Hen Nie.

“In a moment where I intended to admire the courage of a few of my sisters, I said something that I now realize can be perceived as not respectful, and I apologize,” Sarah Rose said in the caption of her post.

She added that she would never intend to hurt others.

Sarah Rose then said that she is grateful that she had the chance to speak with Miss Cambodia and Miss Vietnam about what happened.

“These are the moments that matter most to me,” she added.

Sarah Rose was put in hot water after she was seen in a video that has made rounds in social media saying: “Francesca, the other day, Miss Cambodia is here and doesn’t speak any English and not a single other person speaks her language.”

“Can you imagine? Francesca said, ‘That will be so isolating,’ and I said, ‘Yes and just confusing all the time,’” Sarah Rose added.

She was also seen in a next clip asking Miss Australia and Miss Colombia: “And what do you think about Miss Vietnam?”

Miss Colombia, Delgado, said: “Fash-yon.”

Sarah Rose replied: “She pretends to know so much English and after having a conversation and you ask her a question, after having a whole conversation with her, and she goes... (laughs) She’s adorable.”

Social media users criticized Sarah Rose for her comments that seemingly showed casual xenophobia and racism.

Meanwhile, Miss Universe Vietnam H’Hen Nie also posted the same photo in her account and captioned it with: “We all did the great job on the stage tonight!”

The Cambodian beauty queen added: “Hugs and kisses. We are family.”

Miss Universe Cambodia Rern Sinat also posted the photo and said that the experience “have given us the opportunity to show and learn different cultures.”

“I speak the language of love, respect and understanding. I love you my sisters,” Rern added.

The five beauty queens shared the stage with 88 others on Thursday night for the preliminary competition, which included swimsuit and evening gown competition.

The coronation night will be held on December 17, in Bangkok, Thailand. — Kristine Joy Patag

source: philstar.com

Miss Universe Australia opens up about depression: 'Mental health issues kill 1 in 5 Australians'

MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe Australia 2018 Francesca Hung revealed her past struggles because of depression.

Speaking with the Real Talk podcast, Francesca said her parents are high achievers, so she was pressured to impress them.

“I didn’t really understand depression and that that is what I was feeling; straight after school I went to university and focused. It was all about focusing on the future,” she said.

But she clarified she never acted on any suicidal thoughts and it “was more like self-sabotage; I would do things to, sort of, ruin my life so that no-one expected anything from me.”

The Australian-Chinese beauty queen continued that she felt horrible to be around her family and friends and started rebelling.

“I was partying a bit too hard, and doing anything to distract myself; I was hanging out with the wrong people and wasn’t doing anything with my life,” she said.

“I hated myself so much and I thought I was so worthless, and I would look at myself in the mirror and think ‘ugh you’re disgusting, what are you doing with yourself?’” she added.

She also thought she was unattractive and ugly and was so conscious because she is a half-Chinese.

“That was completely ingrained in me, and I was so self-conscious that when I would look in the mirror I would see this disgusting blob. I was overweight, and I would sabotage my eating so I would fit a certain look; I hated the way I looked… I always felt like I was my own worst nightmare.”

After realizing she needed some help, Francesca spoke to her family about her condition.

“My dad comes from a medical background, so I think that the psychological side of things is a different world to the scientific world, to him. I think it was definitely difficult for them to comprehend that I was feeling this way ... and I never wanted to speak about it with my friends because I didn’t want it to look like a sign of weakness.”

She also got the help she needed through different psychologists and anti-depressant medicines, but the medication always changed her mood.

“I went numb and I didn’t feel anything at all, and I was becoming a mean version of myself, and didn’t care about anybody else’s feelings, and I acted like I didn’t really care about the world and I was rebelling again.”

Nevertheless, she met someone who changed her and helped her feel good about herself again.

“I started working on my diet and fitness. I started weaning myself off the antidepressants and that took quite a long time to feel good without them, and now I’m completely off them and I feel so much better than I ever had before... I think it grew from an understanding that a lot of people in his family have suffered from mental health issues, and I think it kind of clicked with him then, that if I was going through a similar thing, that a lot of it can be passed down – it’s not just a feeling, it can be a chemical thing sometimes as well.”

According to her, one in five Australians suffer from mental health issues every year and it is the second biggest killer of young people.

Francesca will be competing against her fellow half-Australian Catriona Gray of the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2018 pageant on December 17 in Bangkok, Thailand.

source: philstar.com

Miss Ukraine dethroned for lying about civil status

MANILA, Philippines — Ukraine’s representative to Miss World 2018, Veronika Didusenko, was stripped of her crown four days after she received it because the competition later discovered that she is a divorced mother.

The pageant’s officials revealed that they found out that Veronika entered false information on her application form.


The Miss Ukraine organization released a statement, saying all participants of the contest must comply with their requirements.

“A person who wishes to take part in the National Beauty contest Miss Ukraine must comply, among other things, with the following requirements (valid for the period of the Contest): — not / was not married; — does not have a child,” the statement said.

“Dídusenko has provided inaccurate information, confirming that she was not married and has no children. Contestants may not be married or pregnant. They must not have never been married, not had a marriage annulled nor given birth to, or parented a child. The titleholders are also required to remain unmarried throughout their reign,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, in the Facebook account of Gennadiy Kurockha, boyfriend of Veronika, he confirmed that the beauty queen has a “wonderful four-year-old boy from her first marriage.”

Veronika Didusenko will make the first official statement regarding her disqualification and deprivation of the ‘Miss Ukraine-2018’ title, its causes and her subsequent actions.

The Miss Ukraine organization will announce soon who is will be its new representative for the Miss World pageant to be held this December in China.

source: philstar.com

PLDT Home supports Rachel Peters as she competes for Miss Universe crown

Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2017 and PLDT Home ambassador Rachel Peters is all set to represent the country in the biggest, most prestigious beauty pageant in the world, the 66th Miss Universe Pageant.

The coronation night happens on Nov. 26, Sunday in the U.S. at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, Nevada (Monday morning, Philippine time) with no less than our very own Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach as one of the judges.

Bb-Pilipinas Charities Foundation, Inc. and PLDT Home have been partnering for four years now in support of outstanding and inspiring women who make an impact on the international stage like the Miss Universe pageant.

Both Rachel Peters and Pia Wurtzbach are ambassadors for PLDT Home, as well as the crowned queens before them –- Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2014 MJ Lastimosa and Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2016 Maxine Medina.

Rachel says, “I am motivated and focused on my goal to bring pride for the Philippines. The stories and journeys of the previous queens have inspired me. I think the best way to honor their legacy is to give it my best, and that’s what I intend to do.”

source: interaksyon.com

WinWyn Marquez dead set on winning Miss World Philippines crown

Actress, dancer and TV personality Teresita “WinWyn” Marquez is no stranger to the pageant circuit.

Wyn, who is one of 35 candidates in this year’s Miss World Philippines pageant, previously won three special awards and finished in the Top 15 in Binibining Pilipinas 2015. Wyn joined Binibining Pilipinas on the same year Pia Wurtzbach won the title and, eventually, the Miss Universe crown.

In a media interview during the presentation of candidates for this year’s Miss World Philippines, Wyn talked about how Pia has been an inspiration to pageant hopefuls like herself. “Inspiration siya ng lahat ng girls. Siguro if there was a chance na makausap ko siya and ask her for advice, lalapitan ko na siya ngayon.”

It can be remembered that Pia joined Binibining Pilipinas thrice before she actually bagged the crown, and her story has served as a staunch reminder to pageant candidates to never back down from competing.

“She serves as an inspiration to us, lalo na because I lost the first time. And yun nga, you never give up on a dream. You try and if you give your best, talagang 100 percent, wala kang i-reregret,” Wyn shared.

Wyn returned to her television stints after joining Binibining Pilipinas, but now has her eyes on the Miss World Philippines crown. The statuesque morena beauty is dead set on winning the title, even if she does feel apprehension from time to time.

“You have to train your mind to be positive and you have to train your mind that you’re going to win. Actually, kinakabahan ako na sobrang excited. I have the chance to go back on stage and show everyone that I also deserve to win the crown. Yun naman ang aim ko. Pero siyempre kung ano ang ibigay ni Lord, kung anong ibigay ng judges, I would accept it of course,” she said.

If there is something in her that has improved, it would be her self-confidence.

She explains, “It was a challenge for me before to be positive everyday eh. I was attacked on social media. I was attacked because of my family. Alam mo yung, I joined just because I was part of a known family. Siguro ngayon I’m much stronger. And yung mindset ko is to win and just to focus there, and not to think about yung mga criticism na hindi constructive.

“Natutuhan ko yun sa sarili ko, to listen to constructive criticism, rather than those who just say stuff to break you.”

The 22-year-old daughter of Joey Marquez and Alma Moreno initially had mixed feelings about competing again, but was buoyed by the support of family, friends and her boyfriend, Kapuso star Mark Herras. It was Mark who convinced her to join Miss World Philippines.

Even her father, who initially disapproved of her desire to join beauty pageants, eventually gave in and offered his full support after she explained to him that competing in beauty pageants meant more than parading on stage in lavish gowns and skimpy swim attire.

“I explained to him that it’s not all about your physique, how you look like. It’s about voicing out something – ‘beauty with a purpose.’ And I think he realized that.”

“Coming from my dad who doesn’t like for me to join pageants, that’s something,” she said.

Aunt and former Miss International Melanie Marquez has been supportive of Wyn’s aspirations to follow her footsteps and win a beauty title from the start. The former beauty queen and model stands by her niece’s decision to compete in Miss World and promised to support her every step of the way.

Wyn recalls a previous conversation with her aunt. “Actually I was consulting her if I should join again. Isa lang yung sinabi niya sa akin. ‘Join if you want to, if your heart is set to win. Go and join.’”

Wyn has been constantly updating her Instagram with pageant updates with the hashtag #ForTheWyn, putting emphasis on her drive to win the crown.

A production of ALV Events International, the Miss World Philippines grand coronation night will take place on September 3, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. The event will be hosted by Iya Villania, KC Montero and Carla Abellana, with special guests Jay-R, Kris Lawrence and other surprise guests.

Aside from the country’s past Miss World Philippines titlists such as Gwendoline Ruais, Queenierich Rehman, Megan Young, Valerie Weigmann, Hillarie Parungao and Catriona Gray, this year’s pageant will also be highlighted by the presence of Miss World founder and CEO Julia Morley and her entourage.

They include reigning Miss World Stephanie del Valle, reigning Mr. World Rohit Khandelwal, Miss World Caribbean Yaritza Reyes, Miss World Asia Natasha Manuella, Miss World Americas Audra Mari, Miss World Europe Lenty Frans, Miss World Africa Evelyn Njambi, Miss World Oceania Madeline Cowe, and special guest of honor Chief Zwelivelile Mandelsizwe Mandela, the eldest grandson of former South Africa president Nelson Mandela.

source: interaksyon.com

Miss Germany apologizes to Pia Wurtzbach after post-pageant tirade

After granting a post-pageant interview where she aired her displeasure over the outcome of this year’s Miss Universe pageant as a result of the controversial mistake of host Steve Harvey, the Miss Universe Germany organization issued a statement of apology on behalf of Miss Germany Sarah-Lorraine Riek on their Facebook page.

“Miss Universe Germany Sarah-Lorraine feels sorry for her colleague and friend Miss Colombia. This must have been the worst nightmare. She never intended to offend Miss Philippines in any way. She feels sorry for both girls. As well for Pia Miss Philippines that she didn’t have her real crowning moment,” went the first part of the three paragraph statement written in the third person.

“She is really sorry if the video suggests anything else than that. It’s an emotional roller coaster what happened yesterday in Las Vegas. She and all the other girls felt so sorry for Colombia at that moment. They could all imagine how this must feel. That’s not the final result moment what you wish for anyone. And also for Pia.”

The Facebook page of Miss Universe–Germany, however, seems to have been taken down along with the apology.

In the video of her post-pageant interview that was posted on the Facebook page of pageant analysis site Missosology, Riek — who failed to land in the Top 15 semifinals — said she was upset at the result and thought Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutiérrez Arévalo “deserved to win” because “no one of us (the other contestants) voted for Philippines.”

Riek’s remarks immediately elicited angry comments from Filipino fans of Pia which may have contributed to Riek’s change of heart just hours after the viral video of her interview was posted.

Another factor that may have also contributed to Riek’s rapid change of heart was the possible belated realization, that Pia is, in fact, “half-German.”

“Sarah-Lorraine is very happy a half-German girl brings the crown of course a bit to Germany as well! Congrats to our friends from Philippines from winning the crown after all. She wishes Pia all the best for this year as Miss Universe 2015,” the statement concluded.

While Harvey may have messed up the announcement of the Miss Universe winner, the outcome was never in doubt as far as the judges were concerned.

In his recent podcast following the pageant, celebrity blogger Perez Hilton, one of the four judges in the competition, revealed that all of them voted unanimously for Pia.

“I voted for Miss Philippines, and I found out afterwards that it was unanimous. Every single judge in that panel, all four of us, voted for Miss Philippines to be number one.”

“So then, when Steve Harvey announced that Miss Colombia had won, I was in shock. I couldn’t even speak…we were all in shock, we knew something was off…I thought, ‘This is rigged’. But then it became clear when Steve comes out and announces that a mistake was made,” Hilton concluded.

source: interaksyon.com

Miss Philippines is 2015 Miss Universe

LAS VEGAS- Miss Philippines was named Miss Universe Sunday in a drama-filled turn worthy of a telenovela.

The pageant's host, comedian Steve Harvey, misread his cue card which he initially said had Miss Colombia, Ariadna Gutierrez, as the winner.

She was briefly, very fleetingly, crowned in Las Vegas and started the customary smiling and waving.

But not for long.

As she blew kisses, Harvey awkwardly said "I have to apologize. The first runner-up is Colombia."

"Miss Universe 2015 is Philippines," he added, with the Colombian contestant left like a deer in headlights and the actual winner, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, looking stunned.

And all on live television with millions watching from Manila to Manchester.

"It was my fault," Harvey stammered as a perplexed audience held its breath.

"Please don't hold it against the ladies," added the talk show host.

The contest, held in Las Vegas this year, is wildly popular in Latin America and much of Asia.

Later in his Twitter account, @IAmSteveHarvey, the host apologized for his mistake: "I want to apologize emphatically to Miss Philippians (sic) and Miss Columbia. This was a terribly honest human mistake and I am so regretful."

Congrats from Malacanang
Malacanang immediately sent a congratulatory note, saying the entire country “unites in celebration” of Wurtzbach’s win.

“Throughout her journey, Ms. Wurtzbach showcased to the world the characteristic beauty, intelligence, and elegance for which Filipinas are renowned. In the first few moments of the original announcement, she showed tremendous poise and control, and even more tremendous graciousness when the real verdict was finally announced,” said Palace spokesman Edwin Lacierda.

“We congratulate her for this success as the third Miss Universe of the Philippines, following in the footsteps of Ms. Gloria Diaz and Ms. Margie Moran-Floirendo,” he said.

Lacierda noted the Filipinos’ support of Wurtzbach.

“In bagging this victory, Ms. Wurtzbach not only serves as a tremendous source of pride for our people, but also holds up the banner of our women and of our country -- as a true representative of what the Filipina can achieve. Indeed, this triumph is the result not only of her beauty but also of her passion for positive change, as one who is confidently beautiful with the heart. Over 42 years and today, once more the Philippines shines forth with joy and celebration,” he said.

Advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention
Congresswoman Kaka Bag-ao (Lone District, Dinagat Islands), one of the principal authors of the Revised Philippine HIV/AIDS Policy Act in the House of Representatives and awaiting Senate approval, said: "I'm very happy that we do not only have a Miss Universe; we have a brave advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention. By taking on the issue, she is greatly helping in reducing stigma and discrimination."

Labor group the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines-Nagkaisa also welcomed "the positive and exponential presence" of Miss Universe into the campaign against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). "Pia's leverage into the campaign against HIV and AIDS in the country is a morale booster to HIV/AIDS advocates and activists. She comes into the issue at a time when the campaign is at all-time low because of appalling high growth of incidence and everyone seemed not to care anymore. Ms. Wurtzbach's energy and vitality into the advocacy will radically change the equation," said TUCP spokesperson Alan Tanjusay.

source: interaksyon.com

Venezuela's Edymar Martínez crowned Miss International 2015

MANILA, Philippines - Edymar Martínez of Venezuela was crowned Miss International 2015 held at the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa in Tokyo, Japan on Thursday.

"What I'm feeling is the best feeling ever," Martinez said. "Venezuela, we did it!"

Philippine bet Janicel Lubina made it to the top 10 but failed to enter the pageant's top five.

Rounding out the top five are:

First runner-up: Honduras
Second runner-up: Kenya
Third runner-up: Vietnam
Fourth runner-up: Miss USA

The top 10 candidates are: Brazil, Honduras, Kenya, Mexico, Philippines, Thailand, United Kingdom, USA, Venezuela and Vietnam.

While failing to make it to the top five, Lubina won the Miss Best Dresser special award.

Here is the list of special award winners:

Miss National Costume: Miss Japan
Miss Perfect Body: Miss Venezuela
Miss Best Dresser: Miss Philippines

Miss International Asia: Miss Korea
Miss International Europe: Portugal
Miss International America: Aruba
Miss International Africa: Kenya
Miss International Oceania: Hawaii

In a previous interview, the 20-year-old native of Narra, Palawan said she hopes to follow the footsteps of Bea Rose Santiago, the Filipina beauty queen who won the Miss International title in 2013.

Janicel failed to the join the ranks of fellow Binibining Pilipinas beauty queens Ann Colis, who won Miss Globe 2015 in Canada, and Parul Shah, who was named third runner-up in the Miss Grand International 2015 earlier this year.

source: philstar.com

Can Christi Lynn McGarry compete in Miss Intercontinental again?

It seems that almost year in and year out, the Binibining Pilipinas beauty pageant never runs out of controversial issues.

Christi Lynn McGarry was crowned Bb. Pilipinas-Intercontinental 2015 Sunday night. However, it turned out that she had already competed for the Miss Intercontinental title in 2010 when the local franchise was not yet under the fold of the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc.

Alerted by InterAksyon, BPCI immediately acknowledged the potential conflict on Monday and furnished us this statement: “The Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Incorporated is studying the issue about Christi Lynn McGarry who then competed for Miss Intercontinental 2010. We will update everyone should we arrive at anything final.”

McGarry, who listed Nabua, Camarines Sur as her hometown in this year’s Binibining Pilipinas, represented the Filipino Community of East Coast, USA back when she competed in the Mutya ng Pilipinas 2010.

As the winner of the Mutya ng Pilipinas Asia-Pacific title in that pageant, the 24-year-old stunner earned the right to represent the Philippines in the 2010 Miss Intercontinental contest where she finished among the Top 15 semifinalists and also won the special award, Miss Asia Oceania Intercontinental.

A check with Miss Intercontinental’s official website states that delegates should be “at least 18 years old and under 27 (in the year they participate in the telecast).” Pageant rules are not posted in detail so it is not known if contestants who already participated in previous pageants are allowed to compete again.

If McGarry can’t compete anymore in Miss Intercontinental, would she forfeit her Binibining Pilipinas-Intercontinental crown?

Would this pave the way for 1st runner-up Hannah Ruth Sison, who was reportedly heartbroken after her three-year campaign for a Binibining Pilipinas crown fell short for the third and final time on Sunday? Pageant insiders feel that this is an unlikely scenario and point to McGarry switching titles with Binibining Pilipinas-Supranational Rogelie Catacutan as a more plausible solution.

For now, the issue remains unresolved as there is no scheduled date yet for Miss Intercontinental 2015. Last year, the pageant was won by Thailand’s Phataraporn Wang while Binibining Pilipinas-Intercontinental 2014 Kris Tiffany Janson won 2nd runner-up—the country’s best finish in the pageant’s 42-year history.

source: interaksyon.com

Miss Colombia Paulina Vega is Miss Universe 2014

For the first time in 56 years, Miss Colombia is Miss Universe.

Living up to her frontrunner billing, 22-year-old Paulina Vega bested 87 other hopefuls on her way to winning the coveted crown in the 63rd edition of the prestigious beauty pageant held Sunday, January 25 (Monday, January 26, Manila time) in Doral, Florida.

Vega, a business administration student at the Universidad Javeriana in Bogota, seemed destined for victory right from the start as her name was the first to be called when hosts Thomas Roberts and Natalie Morales announced the Top 15 semi-finalists.

It was smooth sailing from there for the sweet-faced Latina as she ultimately topped a formidable field of beauties that included runners-up Miss USA Nia Sanchez, Miss Ukraine Diana Harkusha, surprise finalist Miss Netherlands Yasmin Verheijen and Miss Jamaica Kaci Fennell, who drew the loudest applause.

However, Vega’s coronation was marred by the loud and prolonged booing at the Florida International University Arena in Doral after Miss Jamaica was called as the fourth runner-up.

The last time Colombia won the crown was in 1956 when Luz Marina Zuluaga took home the title.

Vega spoke proudly of her country, and said in the question round Colombia “has been a role model for the rest of the world.”

“We are persevering people, despite all the obstacles, we keep fighting for what we want to achieve. After years of difficulty, we are leading in several areas on the world stage.”

Vega won highest possible score of 9.9 in every presentation at the Miss Universe Colombia contest, according to the pageant’s website.

The five-foot-nine model from Barranquilla is the granddaughter of legendary tenor Gaston Vega and 1953 Miss Atlantico, Elvira Castillo.

The 63rd edition of the Miss Universe pageant selected the pageant’s 2014 winner after the Miss Universe organization failed to stage the event last year.

Ten judges were tasked to select this year’s winner, including Cuban-American music mogul Emilio Estefan, Cuban soap opera star William Levy and Philippine boxing great Manny Pacquiao.

The contest, owned by Donald Trump, is watched by about 600 million worldwide, pageant officials say.

There was some criticism of the $2.5 million contribution that the city of Doral made to the pageant, as local politicians were divided over whether the promotion for the city near Miami is worth that money.

The Miss Universe contest started out in 1952 as a local “bathing beauty” competition organized by a swimwear company in Long Beach, California.

Today, the competition is more than a beauty pageant and contestants “compete with hope of advancing their careers, personal and humanitarian goals and… seek to improve the lives of others,” according to the Miss Universe website.

Miss Philippines Mary Jean Lastimosa fell short of her bid to win the country’s third Miss Universe title as she was able to make it as far as the Top 10. Lastimosa’s semifinals finish broke the Philippines’ string of runner-up placements that started with Venus Raj in 2010 and was followed by Shamcey Supsup, Janine Tugonon and Ariella Arida.

Lastimosa’s loss was a big letdown for Filipino pageant fans as she was considered a frontrunner in fearless forecasts leading up to the pageant’s coronation night.

In a statement furnished to Interaksyon, the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Incorporated still congratulated the 27-year old North Cotabato native for her performance in pageant.

“Title or no title, her participation in Miss Universe’s global discussions on peace, cultural exchange and other charity initiatives has beautifully showcased the Filipina’s beauty, intellect and compassion,” the statement read.

(With a report from Agence France-Presse)

source: interaksyon.com

Philippines vs. Colombia showdown looms in Miss Universe

It sounded like Stella Marquez Araneta displayed her bias for her native country when she picked Miss Colombia Paulina Vega as the “biggest competition” of Miss Philippines Mary Jean Lastimosa in the coming 63rd Miss Universe beauty pageant.

But the observation of the controversial Binibining Pilipinas founding madam is spot-on. As pageant experts post their final predictions with only hours to go before the coronation night, Paulina, 22 and MJ, 27, could be on a collision course with destiny as both seek Miss Universe’s crowning glory to put an end to their respective countries’ title drought.

MJ hopes to become the Philippines’ third Miss Universe since Margie Moran last won the title in 1973, while Paulina is seeking to become her country’s only second Miss Universe after Luz Marina Zuluaga first won it for Colombia in 1958.

They hold the number 1 and 2 spots in Missosology’s Final Hot Picks for Miss Universe.

In choosing Paulina as their top pick, the reputable pageant analysis says Miss Colombia is “that ethereal beauty that screams royalty and class.”

“What makes Paulina stand out is her ability to project herself as an elegant woman onstage. Her beauty is also top notch and her body has the correct proportions. In overall, she is a perfect package. Her presence is undeniable and she has a very strong showing at the preliminaries.”

Missosology concedes that MJ is “in it to win it” and praised both her “divine body figure” and “top-notch catwalk”.

“She is by far the most superior among the 88 contestants when it comes to the runway and she will nail way higher scores when finals night comes,” the site added.

In the Final Prediction of Miss Universe fan site MissUniversePageant Hotspot, Paulina figured in the Top 10, but it was MJ who made the Top 5.

“Paulina seemed to stay in the limelight as a frontrunner and if we look back at the past winners, most of them weren’t frontrunners. So that can be a let-down too for her. Now, to pop the question up—it’s a YES for the placement, and NO for the crown,” the site said about Miss Colombia.

“If they didn’t crown the other four Filipinas due to lack of one or two aspects, then we guess it’s the right time for a Filipina to win…If she doesn’t place, we’ll surely cut someone’s throat. DEFINITELY YES for the placement, and she could PROBABLY snatch the crown,” the site posted about MJ.

Both girls also figured prominently in other fearless forecasts. In Ranker.com, which ranked MJ as No. 1, Paulina is No. 6.

Miss Colombia is likewise included in the unranked Top 10 of the pro-Latina Latin Times which is no surprise but MJ is also right there.

The Jamaica-based Daily Veritas also had the two ladies in their Top 16 predictions with Paulina ranked No. 2 and MJ ranked as No. 8.

Even the UK-based betting odds aggregate Nicer Odds had the two in their radar with Paulina having the second highest betting odds of 4/1 while MJ has the sixth highest likelihood of winning the pageant with a 9/1 odds.

Of course, the actual outcome of Miss Universe will still be up to the pageant’s panel of judges to determine. And as formidable as both Paulina and MJ look right now, there are other top contenders for the coveted crown, including Miss USA Nia Sanchez, Miss Brazil Melissa Gurgel, Miss Spain Desiree Cordero Ferrer and Miss Venezuela Migbelis Castellano.

Incidentally, Paulina and MJ also share one designer in common: Alfredo Barraza who, like Marquez Araneta, is of Colombian nationality. Barraza has been repeatedly slammed for his designs for Miss Philippines for years.

source: interaksyon.com

Ariella Arida clinches 3rd runner-up in Miss Universe pageant

Living up to pre-pageant predictions of making it to the Top 5, Ariella Arida finished 3rd runner-up and held her own against the Latina beauties she faced in the final round of the Miss Universe beauty pageant held at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia Friday night (Saturday morning, Manila time).

Miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler, a 25-year-old television presenter, was named Miss Universe while Miss Spain Patricia Rodriguez won 1st runner-up. The 2nd runner-up is Miss Ecuador, and 4th runner-up is Miss Brazil.



Isler’s victory marks the 7th time that Venezuela has won the crown. Only USA has more wins, at eight.

Although Arida’s finish did not exactly live up to the high expectations she had to live up with after successive runner-up finishes for the Philippines in the last three years, making it as far as 3rd runner-up is a major achievement for the 24-year old morena charmer from Alaminos, Laguna.

Arida’s Miss Universe journey did not come without its own share of adversities—from her controversial interview where she cited Latinas as examples of contestants who can’t speak English that was taken out of context by certain quarters, to her less than stellar performances in the National Costume and the preliminary evening gown competitions.

Despite those setbacks, Arida remained a strong contender for the title until the very end, figuring prominently not only in fearless forecasts but also in betting odds posted online.

Prior to the big night, she won the pre-pageant honors for Ice Princess for a winter-themed glam photo shoot. Her video for the pageant’s official “Truth and Dare” series had the most views on YouTube and was the only one to reach the 300,000 mark out of the 86 contestants.

Her momentum continued to be on the upward swing during the actual pageant. Arida drew some of the loudest cheers in the venue each time she advanced to the next round. She topped the online voting that automatically won her a slot among the 16 semifinalists but was the last to be announced to the relief of her fans. The other semifinalists were candidates from Costa Rica, Ukraine, China, Ecuador, Great Britain, Indonesia, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Spain, USA, Nicaragua, Switzerland, India and Brazil.

Trimmed down to 10, she again made it to the next round along with Ukraine, Ecuador, Great Britain, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Spain, USA, India and Brazil.

Contrary to the fears of many, Arida also did very well during the Question and Answer portion, she drew the name of Olympic figure skating champion Tara Lipinski who asked her, “What can be done about the lack of jobs for young people starting their careers around the world?”

As she promised prior to arriving in Moscow, Arida did not use a translator to deliver her answer: “We should invest in education. That is my primary advocacy. Through it we can land good careers in the future. Education is the ticket to a good future.”

A Chemistry major who graduated with honors from the University of the Philippines in Los Baños, Arida’s competitive spirit allowed her to represent her country admirably in the pageant.

Host Thomas Roberts, who is joined by Melanie Brown (Mel B.), dedicated the show to the people of the Philippines and Vietnam who were and are being hit by supertyphoon Yolanda. Visayas continues to reel from the strong winds and rains that battered the country Friday. The tropical cyclone left the Philippines Saturday for Vietnam.

source: interaksyon.com

Can Ariella Arida really win Miss Universe? How pageant experts see it

Prior to the Miss Universe 2013 preliminary competition last Tuesday, Miss Philippines Ariella Arida had been tipped as the top contender for the title. Was she able to maintain and even boost that momentum after her performance in the swimsuit and evening gown competitions? Is Miss USA Erin Brady still her closest competitor in the pageant? More importantly, can she live up to her frontrunner status and win?

The UK edition of the International Business Times reported on Friday that Arida and Brady are still the top favorites to win the title according to “popularity, betting and online pools”.

In assessing why Arida has a strong chance of taking home the pageant’s Diamond Nexus Crown, the IBTimes report written by Simi John noted Arida’s “smooth ride” in the competition following her arrival in Moscow two weeks ago.

“She impressed all during the Tony Ward Couture Fashion Show, and appeared twice on the ramp in the designer’s ensemble. She was one of the five beauties, out of the 89 contestants, chosen for the television advertisement of luxury car maker Mercedes-Benz. She bagged the top prize for the photo shoot for Italian lingerie brand, Yamamay, taken by New York-based Fashion Photographer Fadil Berisha. Most recently she was one of the ten contestants who attended internationally renowned culinary expert Chef Nobu’s Moscow Demo Show,” the IBTimes wrote.

The news site did not cite as many reasons why Miss USA is a top contender for Miss Universe other than saying that Brady is the top choice of bookies according to one betting odds site, Bet365. A check with the website of betting sites aggregate Nicer Odds UK, however, revealed that Miss Philippines remain the top pick of another betting site, BetFair which gave her a 3.85 Euro odds of winning the title, way ahead of Miss USA who is ranked 6th with a 12.0 odds of winning.

A win by either Miss Philippines or Miss USA would be a history-making achievement. If Arida triumphs, the Philippines would be the first country to bag the Miss World and Miss Universe titles in a single year since India’s Aishwarya Rai Sushmita Sen achieved the rare feat back in 1994.

If Brady wins, her country would have the first back-to-back Miss Universe titleholders since erstwhile powerhouse Venezuela romped off with the crown in 2008 and 2009.

A check with the fearless forecasts and preliminary competition reports of other reputable pageant sites, however, revealed that neither Arida nor Brady are locks to win Miss Universe. Over the last few days, other strong contenders for the crown have emerged and are still gaining momentum.

One of them is Miss Ukraine Olga Storozhenko now ranked as No. 1 in the top 20 Hot Picks of Missosology.org, a site that specializes in analyzing beauty pageants. Miss Philippines is ranked No. 10 while Miss USA is not even on the list.

Storozhenko is also at the top of the site’s Top 10 evening gown picks and No. 4 in their swimsuit top 10. Arida is at No. 10 in evening gown and No. 7 in swimsuit. Again, Brady is not even on both lists.

Miss USA is also not in the Top 5 list of Prestigious Beauty Pageants dubbed as “a haven of world beauty contests news”. The site has boldly predicted that Arida will win the title followed by Miss Poland Paulina Krupinska (1st runner-up), Miss Puerto Rico Monic Perez (2nd runner-up), Miss Spain Patricia Rodriguez (3rd runner-up) and Miss Australia Olivia Wells (4th runner-up).

Brady, however, is right up there in Miss Universe Pageant Hotspot, another reputable fansite of the pageant has also posted their top 5 that names USA, Puerto Rico, Spain, Ukrainer and Philippines as the last women standing in the final reckoning.

“She can be considered as one of the dark horses. Many might have foretold her to win it all, but it’s not the case in many pageant sites. Many forumers and pageant experts have already taken her off their lists… Based on how she performed in the prelims, she’s in for the top 5. We even chose her as one of the best candidates in long gown because no one registered well on stage like the way she did,” the site posted in its justification of Miss USA’s inclusion on their prediction.

On the other hand, the site described Arida as “controversial, one of the most-talked about candidates, she’s a frontrunner, and a real standout.”

It also noted that she is riding the Philippines’ current streak, with ascending runner-up finishes of the country’s last three representatives.

“She did an outstanding performance in the preliminary competition and aced every single battle in Moscow. She deserves every single right to be in the top list. She will be there like Janine [Tugonon], Shamcey [Supsup], and Venus [Raj].”

Other candidates who are also figuring prominently in online predictions are Miss Brazil Jakelyne Oliveira, Miss India Manashi Moghe, Miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler, Miss Vietnam Truong Thi May, Miss Panama Carolina Brid and Miss France Hinarani de Longeaux.

However, it is worth noting that all these predictions could be for naught because the pageant’s coronation night on November 9 (November 10, 2AM, Manila time) at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia will be judged by a new set of judges who will presumably look at the candidates with a fresh set of eyes.

source: interaksyon.com

Miss World Megan Young overwhelmed by rapturous homecoming welcome

Megan Young couldn’t help but wax emotional upon seeing the throng of well-wishers that greeted her much-anticipated homecoming at the NAIA Terminal 1 Thursday.

“These are tears of joy. I’m just really happy to be home. I’m just really happy to see everyone,” exclaimed the newly crowned Miss World 2013 during a mini-press conference upon her arrival.

The 23-year-old Filipino-American actress and film student admitted that she still couldn’t believe she was the new Miss World even after she had proceeded to London following her victory in the prestigious pageant in Bali, Indonesia.

“First time ko sa Europe. Hindi ko ma-imagine na magta-trabaho pala ako doon as Miss World. It still hasn’t sunk in to me yet,” she confessed.

As she learns more of her upcoming activities in her scheduled world tour, Megan said she now has a better understanding of the “Beauty with a Purpose” mission of the pageant.

“Ang gusto ko lang sanang hilingin, hindi lang ako ang nandidito para sa Miss World, sana lahat ng Pilipino dito at everyone worldwide kasama ko sa journey bilang Miss World. Hindi lang po ito korona, malaking bahagi ng puso bilang Miss World ang ibinabahagi namin sa buong mundo,” she pleaded.

She later revealed that she intends to raise funds for the charitable projects of Miss World, particularly for the children of Africa who have no access to clean water.

“I was very excited when they told me we were going to Kenya and Ghana because I’ve always wanted to go to those parts of Africa,” Megan said during another press conference at Solaire Resorts and Casino that preceded her homecoming victory dinner party.

As for her own countrymen, Megan’s schedule for the next four days will be capped with a charity visit to the Philippine General Hospital. She said she also hopes to do charity work for street children here while reiterating her concern for the recent typhoon victims in her hometown of Olongapo City which she will visit on Saturday.

“Para sa mga kababayan ko rin po sa Olongapo, I just hope everyone’s okay. I will visit my fellow Batang Gapo during my stay here,” she added.

Although she did not make it on time to toss the ceremonial jump ball in the equally anticipated NBA Global Game between the Houston Rockets and the Indiana Pacers, Megan was likewise greeted with loud cheers upon her arrival at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Aside from her visits to Olongapo and the PGH, Megan’s busy schedule include a courtesy call with President Noynoy Aquino at Malacañang this Friday. This will be followed by a Grand Fans Day that will commence with a motorcade victory parade from Makati to SM Mall of Asia where a meet-and-greet affair will immediately follow.

With regards to personal matters, the reigning Miss World was asked if there was anyone special in her life right now. Megan replied in the negative but did not rule out the prospects of meeting one in the course of her travels as Miss World.

Prior to her winning Miss World Philippines this year that led to her crowning as the new Miss World, Megan was romantically linked with GMA Network talent Mikael Daez. Neither Megan nor Mikael have publicly admitted being in a relationship.

Megan managed to post a lone tweet early Friday morning that expressed what it means for her to finally come home.

source: interaksyon.com

Megan Young bags Philippines’ first Miss World crown

After a long wait and several near misses, the Philippines finally won its first Miss World title as 23-year-old Megan Young, a Filipino-American actress from Olongapo, captured the coveted crown at the Bali International Convention Center in Bali, Indonesia on Saturday.

The result was posted on the Facebook page of the prestigious beauty pageant as Young bested nine other semifinalists from Brazil, Australia, France, Nepal, England, Indonesia, Spain, Jamaica and Ghana. There were a total of 131 contestants from around the world — the most in the pageant’s history.

“It’s destiny!” Miss World Phillippines franchise holder Cory Quirino said in a text message to InterAksyon. “The honor is not only Megan’s but the Philippines’. We have made history and have proven once and for all that the Filipina is the most beautiful woman in the world! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas,” she added.

Prior to her coronation, Young also figured prominently in three of the preliminary compeititions in the pageant, winning the Top Model challenge and finishing in the Top 5 of the Beach Fashion and Multimedia Award contests.

She achieved her victory despite the malicious resurfacing of her sexy photos from a March 2012 magazine shoot courtesy of what Miss World Philippines franchise holder Cory Quirino called “a smear campaign by a neglible sector of the Philippine pageant industry”.

Megan became the country’s official representative after winning the Miss World Philippines pageant last August in a lopsided contest where she swept most of its special awards, including Best in Fashion Runway, Miss Sports by FILA, Miss Reducin, Miss Olay, Miss Laguna, Miss Bold and Glamorous by Revlon, Miss Figlia and Miss Bench Body.

Also a digital filmmaking student at the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, Megan recently appeared in the TV5 sexy drama series, “Misibis Bay” and headed the ensemble cast of the independent crime anthology, “Bang Bang Alley”.

Established in 1951, Miss World is the oldest major international beauty pageant in the world and is part of the “Big Four” international beauty pageants that also includes Miss Universe, Miss Earth and Miss International.

source: interaksyon.com

Megan Young wins Top Model challenge, boosts her chances of winning Miss World title

Notwithstanding a recently posted online news item that recalls her sexy cover shoot for the men’s magazine Rogue, Miss World Philippines 2013 Megan Young won the Top Model challenge of this year’s Miss World beauty pageant.

As posted on the prestigious beauty pageant’s official website Friday, Megan bested four other top candidates from the United States, France, Ukraine and Brazil to win the Miss Top Model title which automatically catapults her to the semifinal round of the prestigious beauty contest.

Megan also figured prominently in two other challenges in the pageant. After earlier landing in the Top 11 of the Beach Fashion competition, the 23-year-old Fil-Am charmer from Olongapo placed 5th overall in the final tally trailing the candidates from Jamaica, Ghana, France and eventual winner Miss Brazil Sancler Frantz who will also advance to the semifinals with her win.

In the Multimedia Award competition, Megan finished 4th overall behind contestants from Nepal, Thailand and winner Miss India Navneet Dhillon who also finished 9th in the Beauty with a Purpose race won by Miss Nepal Ishani Shrestia.

Megan’s sterling showing in these preliminary competitions has further bolstered her strong chances of becoming the country’s first ever Miss World title holder. Aside from Miss Brazil, Miss India and Miss Nepal, other contestants who are expected to land in the semifinals based on their showing in the challenges are Miss France Marine Lorphelin, Miss Ghana Naa Okailey Shooter, Miss Australia Erin Holland, Miss Ukraine Anna Zaiachkivska, Miss Netherlands Jacqueline Steenbeek who won the Sports and Fitness challenge and host country representative Miss Indonesia Vania Larissa who earlier won Miss Talent.

Winners of two more challenges, the World Fashion Designer Award and The People’s Champion (online voting), where Megan is ranked number two as of September 25 will be announced on the coronation night.

source: interaksyon.com