Binibining Pilipinas yields 40 candidates for 60th pageant

April 12, 2024

The reigning Binibining Pilipinas queens pose with some of the 40 official candidates this year at the New Frontier Theater (Photo by Anton Eder)

THE Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) has selected the official candidates for its pageant during the final closed-door screening at the New Frontier Theater on April 5.

Celebrating 60 years this year as, inarguably, the longest-running and trusted brand in national pageantry, Binibining Pilipinas is up for a spectacular search for the country’s official representatives to Miss International and The Miss Globe where it has produced six and two titleholders, respectively.

The beautiful roster of 40 new Binibinis, sifted from the original field of 60 aspirants, showcases a mix of fresh faces and pageant veterans, all bringing with them their inspiring advocacies and unique stories.

The official candidates of the 60th Binibining Pilipinas pageant are:

Aleckxis Chuidian, Carmella Cuaresma, Charisse Abanico, Christal Dela Cruz, Corrine San Pedro, Erika Ballon, Geraldine Buenafe, Gracelle Distura, Jasmin Dingson, Jasmine Bungay, Joyce Anne Garduque, Kara Villarosa, Kristin Baconawa, Kylie Atiliano, Liezle Jones, Ma. Flordeliz Mabao, Mae Kimberly De Luna, Maria Jajalla, Marikit Manaois, Monica Acuno;

Myrea Caccam, Myrna Esguerra, Mythosela Villanueva, Nicklyn Jutay, Phoebe Godinez, Rendell Ann Caraig, Roella Frias, Roselyn Evardo, Samantha Acosta, Shaira Marie Rona, Shannen Manzano, Sheny Sampang, Sheryl Velez, Tracy Mae Sunio, Trisha Hernandez, Trisha Martinez, Vera Dickinson, Vienne Feucht, Zeneth Joy Khan and Zianah Joy Famy.

The latest batch of Binibinis was meticulously chosen by a panel composed of the reigning Binibining Pilipinas 2023 queens and the BPCI Executive Committee.

Excited to pass on their titles to the new winners are: Angelica Lopez (Binibining Pilipinas International 2023), Anna Lakrini (Miss Globe 2023 2nd runner-up), Katrina Anne Johnson (Binibining Pilipinas 1st runner-up) and Atasha Reign Parani (Binibining Pilipinas 2nd runner-up).

Notably, Lopez has yet to compete for the 62nd Miss International finals in Tokyo in November after she bequeaths her national title.

Now part of the exclusive and legendary Binibini sisterhood, the 40 ladies will compete in the grand 60th edition of the country’s most prestigious beauty pageant to be held at the Araneta Coliseum on July 7.

Central Luzon bets win in int’l tilts in India, Nepal

Jose Patao Jr

April 5, 2024

PHILIPPINE delegates from Central Luzon scored victories in two international pageants last weekend just 24 hours of one another.

Last April 30, Jean Lacsina Tumang, a beauty queen turned entrepreneur from Capas, Tarlac, was crowned as Miss Elite Global 2024 in a beauty pageant that gathered delegates from all over the world in a coronation show held at Ikigai Green Valley Beach Resort in Goa, India.

Tumang, who held the title of Miss Tourism Model of the World Philippines in 2016, was sent to compete in India by the Miss United Continents Philippines Organization headed by Jeslyn Santos.

Tumang wore an exquisitely beaded and draped evening gown by Benj Leguiab IV.

Tumang, who stands 5’10” tall, was crowned by Sanchan Charan, co-founder of the Miss Elite Global organization that aims to “unite race, culture and society.”

“Bringing home the crown is a dream come true, not just for me, but for our beloved Philippines and all those who believed in me. Age is truly just a number, and this victory is a testament to the fact that dreams know no bounds,” said Tumang, 31, in her social media accounts.

“This crown belongs to our country and to everyone who has ever cheered me on. Together, we’ve proven that with determination and passion, anything is possible. Here’s to chasing dreams and inspiring others to do the same!”

Meanwhile, in nearby Kathmandu, Nepal the following day, March 31, Phil Andrei Tungul, 18, from Lubao, Pampanga, was proclaimed as Mister Teen Global International 2024.

Tungul overwhelmingly won over his fellow contestants during the grand finals of the Global Man & Woman International 2024 pageant held in Kathmandu, Nepal last Sunday (Monday morning in the Philippines).

Tungul, a 6-foot-2 varsity basketball player from Sto. Tomas, Lubao, Pampanga, won the Mister Teen International Philippines last year during the Mister International Philippines 2023 pageant. He was announced early this year as the Philippines candidate in the Global Man & Woman International – Teen Category.

Also present in Kathmandu to cheer and support Tungul was Mister International Philippines national director Ameer Emir.

***

Binibining Pilipinas, the country’s premiere and trusted beauty pageant brand, is celebrating 60 glorious years of the beauty and grace of the Filipina this year.

This Friday, at the New Frontier Theater in Araneta City, it will unveil this year’s batch of captivating “binibinis” who will become the official candidates of Batch 2024, the beauteous ladies who will battle it out for the right to be the country’s representative to Miss International and Miss Globe.

Cebuana crowned Universal Woman 2024 in Cambodia

Jose Patao Jr

March 27, 2024

UNIVERSAL Woman Philippines Maria Gigante, of Bantayan Island, Cebu won as Universal Woman 2024, besting the field of 44 delegates worldwide to succeed Valentina Sanchez Trivella of Venezuela, last year’s winner. She topped the final five that included finalists from Venezuela, France, Cambodia and Dominican Republic.

The final show, only on its second edition, was held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Universal Woman national director Arnold Vegafria and Gigante’s parents, family and friends flew to Cambodia to watch her momentous victory.

Gigante, 30, gave a powerful answer in the question round, essaying “What does the Universal Woman mean to you?”

“To me, Universal Woman means the future. I learned from working with this organization that I want to live in a world that is filled with respect and collaboration, one that encourages us to step into our differences instead of ignoring them. And learn to harness them in order to effect positive social change. I want to be in this organization because I feel that I am not alone. I am one in an army of women who are ready and willing to make a difference, to support a world that is not only sustainable, but that stands for economic progress, and positive, inclusive social impact. If you are here tonight, welcome to the new era of beauty,” she said.

Lisandra Chirinos of Venezuela was first runner-up, while Elisa Mysyshyne of France was second runner-up. Cambodia’s Brianna Mai placed third runner-up, and Chabeli Tavora Peña from the Dominican Republic was fourth runner-up.

Prior to joining Universal Woman 2024, Gigante joined the Miss World Philippines (MWP) in 2022 where she finished as a finalist.

Last February 27, MWP Organization chairman and Universal Woman national director Arnold Vegafria crowned and bestowed the title of Universal Woman Philippines to Gigante, the first woman to be so honored.

Gigante was feted in simple rites at Kingsford Hotel Manila that was also graced by Valentina Sanchez, the reigning queen, and Universal Woman Organization consultant Alexander Gonzalez.

According to its official social media page, Universal Woman is a “platform that champions the unique brilliance and beauty of women making a positive impact in the world today.”

Qualified to join the pageant are women aged 25 to 45, regardless of their height, weight and civill status.

Top holistic center is lead sponsor of Miss Universe Philippines 2024

Jose Patao Jr

March 22, 2024

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 candidatesChristi Lynn McGarry (Taguig), Ahtisa Manalo (Quezon) and Alexie Brooks (Iloilo). Photos by Edmund Chua

The sponsorship contract signing between Miss Universe Philippines 2024 and EW Villa Medica Manila was held last Wednesday at the Hilton Manila Hotel in Newport World Resorts, Pasay City, and graced by its current candidates.

The event formalizes the participation of EW Villa Medica Manila as the lead sponsor in this year’s Miss Universe Philippines pageant.

Miss Universe Philippines is the most prestigious beauty pageant search in the country. Now on its 5th edition, it selects the country’s official delegate to the annual Miss Universe competition.

On the other hand, EW Villa Medica Philippines is the leading holistic wellness center today that provides stem cell therapy. It is a global health care group that delivers premium regenerative solutions through integrating cellular therapies, biomedical diagnostic and therapeutic devices with an advance health program.

Present during the ceremony are top executives of EW Villa Medica Manila led by their CEO and president Crystal Jacinto, together with chief operating officer Juan Paolo Lumabao and medical director Dr. Jose Paolo Santos.

Miss Universe Philippines is represented by its president, Jonas Antonio Gaffud, executive vice president Voltaire Tayag and Digital and Creative head Paolo Arevalo.

As the top holistic center in the country today, EW Villa Medica Manila will be in support of the official candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2024 in sustaining their aura and stamina, and at the same time, maintaining their strengths and looks inside out, leading to the grand finale of the beauty pageant.

The coronation night of the 5th Miss Universe Philippines 2024 is set for May 22 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

New pageant for a worthy cause

Jose Patao Jr

March 21, 2024

Dave Ocampo, JM Llanes, Philip Mappala, Ronald de los Reyes, Francis Levi Pantino and Jennifer Pingree (Photo by JR Aggarao)

MISTER and Miss Philippine Eagles, the newest beauty pageant of national scope, was launched in a grand manner recently at Pandan Asian Cafe in Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

The officers of the new pageant organization met members of the media and laid out their plans for their inaugural search this year.

They are Ronald de los Reyes, national president; Francis Levi Pantino, chairman, Mister and Miss Philippine Eagles 2024; Philip Mappala, sponsorship committee chairman; JM Llanes, judging committee chairman; Jennifer Pingree, spokesperson; and Dave Ocampo, fashion and creative director.

Interestingly, spokesperson Jennifer Pingree herself is a beauty queen; she was Binibining Pilipinas International 1990.

This year, the Mister and Miss Philippine Eagles 2024 pageant, hosted by TFOE-PE Inc., holds a unique vision that goes beyond traditional beauty pageants. Alongside the recognition of royalty and beauty, this prestigious title comes with the responsibility of serving the community and setting a positive example for others to follow.

One of the primary goals of Mister and Miss Philippine Eagles 2024 is to advocate for the well-being of children during their crucial developmental phase, particularly during the First One Thousand Days as mandated by Republic Act No. 11148, also known as the Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag-Nanay Act. This legislation underscores the importance of proper health and nutrition for mothers and infants during this critical period, laying the foundation for a healthy and prosperous future.

By aligning with this legislation, Mister and Miss Philippine Eagles 2024 demonstrate their commitment to promoting health, nutrition, and overall well-being within their communities. Through their advocacy and actions, they aim to raise awareness, inspire positive change, and make a tangible difference in the lives of mothers and children across the Philippines.

The titleholders of Mister and Miss Philippine Eagles 2024 are not just symbols of beauty and royalty, but also compassionate leaders dedicated to serving their communities and championing important causes that impact the nation’s future.

The Fraternal Order of Eagles – Philippine Eagles, Inc. was established at Aberdeen Court, Quezon City on June 22, 1979 and proudly holds the distinction of being the pioneering fraternal socio-civic organization in the Philippines. Central to its principles is the promotion of humanitarian assistance, while concurrently nurturing “Service Through Strong Brotherhood” among its members.

Gwen Fourniol still confused as to what went wrong in her Miss World campaign

Jose Patao Jr

March 15, 2024

THE Czech Republic’s Krystyna Pyszkova has been crowned as the 71st Miss World in ceremonies held in Mumbai, India last March 9, topping the field of 112 participating delegates from as many countries worldwide even as the Philippine delegate Gwendolyne Fourniol was eliminated right away, failing to enter the first cut of top 40.

Pyszkova was crowned by her predecessor Karolina Bielawska from Poland while Lebanon’s Yasmina Zaytoun was named second. Rounding up the top 4 were Botswana’s Lesego Chombo and Trinidad and Tobago’s Ache Abrahams.

Miss World Philippines Gwen Fourniol figured prominently in the preliminary challenges: top 25 in the head-to-head challenge, top 32 in the sports challenge, top 20 in the top model challenge and top 23 in talent, although she did not top any of the challenges in order to be fast-tracked into the top 40.

Fourniol, a 23-year-old Filipino-French beauty whose mom is originally from Himamaylan and Victorias in Negros Occidental, received an outpouring of support and thank you messages from pageant fans worldwide after failing to enter the first cut.

71st Miss World Krystyna Pyszkova and Miss World Philippines Gwendolyne Fourniol – (Photos from Missosology)

For her part, Fourniol, who’s prepared long and hard for almost two years since she was crowned as Miss World Philippines, wrote lengthily on her social media accounts: “As I write this, I am dumbfounded by the love and support being sent to me across my social media. I can’t help but be emotional. My eyes are swelling with tears trying to hold it all in so the world can see a brave woman who gave her all.

“But like any human being, I think it is normal to admit that it is okay to be vulnerable, it is okay to be hurt, it is okay to be in shock and question myself and my capabilities.

“I am admittedly still in a state of confusion. And I keep asking myself what went wrong, what I did differently or what was missed because I tried to cover all possible angles. But the overthinking brought me at a standstill and I now rest in the thought that this is something I can learn from. I also have faith that a divine being is guiding me to a bigger yet an unknown path for now.

“My journey was not an easy one and the thought of disappointing people who believed and continues to believe in me really breaks my heart. Most of all, the thought of disheartening the people who I am fighting for, the children of ERDA, the mother volunteers who tirelessly devote their time to the cause, really crushes my soul.

“But these same people: YOU, ERDA, My team, My family, are the same people giving me hope, touching me with a glimmer of light, and providing me a reason to stand up and continue advocating for causes close to my heart.

Now, I am seeing the bigger picture and I am filled with grattitude.

“I am thankful to the Miss World Organization for the wonderful experience. I have met 112 gorgeous women with impactful voices and social causes that will make a difference in the world. And this brings me so much joy.

“I have come to realize that there are things within my control that I gave my best on. And there things not within my control that I lifted up to destiny and to God.

“I shall soldier on… because I know I will be stronger, better and wiser.

“This is your Miss World Philippines, Gwendolyne Fourniol! Mahal na mahal ko po kayong lahat! At maraming salamat po sa suportang ibinigay ninyo.”

The 71st Miss World Pageant, held at the Jio World Convention Center in Mumbai, India, was co-presented by our very own Miss World 2013 Megan Young, the 7th time she performed the task since 2014.

Working student from San Juan crowned ‘Mutia ti La Union 2024’

Jose Patao Jr

March 8, 2024

Kristine Billy Tabaday, Gov. Rafy Ortega-David, Prianka Elina Goswami, Gloria Diaz and Michelle Marquez Dee (photo by JR Aggarao)

A TEEN-AGED beauty from the Municipality of San Juan was crowned last Saturday as “Mutia ti La Union 2024,” topping the field of 20 contestants representing the municipalities and capital city of San Fernando who participated in the world-class finale staged by Lumina Events under the helm of Bernard Yabut Maybituin.

The star-studded event, graced by no less than La Union’s first female governor Rafy Ortega-David, was held at Baywalk Poro Point as one of the highlights of the 174th founding anniversary of the province.

Prianka Elina Goswami, an 18-year-old working student from San Juan, the surfing capital of La Union, was crowned as “Mutia ti La Union 2024,” succeeding predecessor Kristine Billy Tabaday from Sudipen.

“Being raised by a single mom made me realize that having a complete family is a blessing but having a solo parent is a rare opportunity to become the strong and empowered woman I am today,” said Goswami, who is also the deputy secretary of JCI San Juan Dalluton, an organization of young active citizens whose purpose is to provide development opportunities to young people.

“As an advocate for solo parents, it is my duty to expand the horizon of opportunities for solo parents. To capacitate them with proper skills and training to realize their value and unleash their full potential in nation building they are the true representation of a strong independent woman,” she added.

Crowned Mutia ti Agriturismo 2024 was Czarina Caguntas from Santol while Mutia ti Kalikasan 2024 was Maria Katrina Calica from Bauang.

Mikaella Fernandez from Bangar and Juvire Glay Abanes from Sudipen were named first and second runners-up, respectively.

Adding to the significance of the event was the all-female selection committee, featuring prominent figures like entrepreneur Rhea Anicoche-Tan, designer Glademir Echavarre, journalist Niña Corpuz, Miss Universe Philippines and Miss Universe 2023 top 10 finalist Michelle Marquez Dee, and the first Filipina Miss Universe, La Union native Gloria Diaz.

The glittering ceremonies were further glammed up by the all-female hosts — beauty queens Mary Jean Lastimosa, Nicole Cordoves, and Emma Tiglao.

The show opened with women in uniform from various agencies in Region 1 such as the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, and Philippine Air Force, blending with the contestants on stage to the tune of “Salute.”

This year, in resonance with the National Women’s Month theme, “Mutia ti La Union 2024″ embraced women’s empowerment as its central theme.

As Governor Ortega-David stated, “This Women’s Month, let us celebrate women and their worth in this world. Together, we can empower more! ”

The all-women monotone was broken by Kyle Eccharri, who performed with the contestants during the swimsuit segment, and heartthrob Joshua Garcia who did a spot number.

3rd Junior Idol World PH crowns winners

Jose Patao Jr

March 1, 2024

From left: King Tristan DaÃ±o, Elizabeth Lipkin, Shaiya Oisha Diwa, Cristhel Fraulein Gardoce Bulabon, Nicole Jayne Lavadia, Nikoea Marie Whittaker and Jairus Fred Balucas. (Photo by Mike ZuÃ±iga)

THE Junior Idol World Philippines (JIWPH) has concluded the third season of crowning its batch of male and female winners who will embark on international pageant journeys abroad.

The La Reinas Filipinas Organization, founded by businesswoman and philanthropist Cristhel Fraulein Gardoce Bulabon, herself a beauty queen who was crowned as Mrs. Philippines Universal Classic 2021, gathered 20 finalists in the following categories: Mini Miss, Little Mister & Miss, Miss Pre Teen, and Mister & Miss Teen.

Parading in creative cultural costumes, colorful resort wear and formal wear, the fresh and young contestants paraded before a panel of judges including beauty queens, corporate heads and renowned Kagandahang Flores pageant camp founder Rodgil Flores at Antipolo Sports Educational Hub last Sunday, February 25.

For Mini Miss JIWPH 2024, Elizabeth Lipkin (Calamba City) was crowned as the grand winner. The other titlists were: Athena Maine Santos (Cardona, Rizal), Mini Miss Universe 2024 and Zaviera Cayenne Laugo (Cavite Province), Mini Miss Gorgeous Universe 2024.

For Little Miss JIWPH 2024, Nicolah Jayne Lavadia (Cebu) was crowned as grand winner, Zharren Kate Colina (Mandaue City), Little Miss Universe 2024; Jahmeica Athena Canonigo (Lapu Lapu City), Little Miss Gorgeous Universe 2024; Shui Tsuda (Bacoor, Cavite), Little Miss Heritage Gem 2024; Kelsey Niña Lopez (Cebu City), Little Miss JIWPH 2024 1st runner-up; Princess Cheyenne McMonagle (Batangas City), Little Miss JIWPH 2024 2nd runner-up.

The winner of Little Mister 2024 is King Tristan Daño of Quezon City.

For Miss Pre Teen, the grand winner was Nikoea Marie Whittaker from Cebu Province; Miss Pre Teen Universe 2024, Kathryn Agnes Laguyo (Binangonan, Rizal); Miss Pre Teen Gorgeous Universe 2024, Aranah Tuco (Cebu City).

For Mister Teen, Jairus Fred Balucas was declared as grand winner; Mister Teen Universe 2024, Alfonso Briene Laude (Sta. Maria, Bulacan) and Mister Teen Gorgeous Universe 2024, Juan Carlos Dominguez (Antipolo City).

In the Miss Teen category, the grand winner is Shaiya Oisha Diwa (Talisay City, Cebu); Miss Teen Universe 2024 Samantha Nicole Camero (Lapu Lapu City); Miss Teen Gorgeous Universe 2024, Pauline Jane Enalpe (San Pablo, Laguna); and Miss Teen Heritage Gem 2024, Abba Nicole Comboy (Mandaue City).

The winners will represent the Philippines in the Junior Idol World competition in Thailand in January next year.

Miss Asia Pacific Int’l is back

Jose Patao Jr

February 23, 2024

Jacqueline Tan-Sainz, Atty. Eva Patalinhug, Blessa Ericha Figueroa, Kristine Caballero Aplal and Essa Santos-Gagna

MISS Asia Pacific International (MAPI) announced its return this 2024 in a press conference held at Sheraton Manila Hotel, Newport City last Monday.

Coming from a five-year pause due to the global pandemic, the long-running international beauty pageant that debuted in Manila in 1968 is about to open the stage once more — the search for its newest queen to represent the advocacy of diversity.

“There were times in the past that we felt pageantry had no place in a world riddled with global pandemic. But now that it is relatively safer to gather once more, we believe that Miss Asia Pacific International is a strong platform to raise the voices we need to hear today,” said MAPI president Jacqueline Tan-Sainz, who also announced her stepping down from the position.

The international pageant is coming back with reinvigorated energy as a familiar name in the industry takes on the challenge to lead the organization: Atty. Eva Patalinjug.

Fresh from her oath-taking as a newly-minted lawyer, the former beauty queen plans to bring her advocacy for pageantry as she succeeds Tan-Sainz.

“Ten years ago, I was Mutya ng Pilipinas Asia Pacific International. But I never imagined myself to come full circle and lead the organization that crowned me with my first national beauty title!” exclaimed Patalinhug.

“In the current era where relevance has been a persistent question for the industry, I am more resolved in making sure that we appreciate the power of the platform – the dreams it can realize, the voices it can amplify,” she added.

As it champions “beauty in diversity,” MAPI is elevating the 2024 season with more inclusive guidelines, including opening the pageant to married women and mothers, as well as expanding the age limit to 30 years old.

Alongside the changes, MAPI general manager Essa Santos-Gagna also announced her stepping down to a consultant role. Kristine Caballero Aplal, the pageant’s headmistress for the past seasons, has been promoted to succeed her.

Completing the core group are international affairs and crown management director Onin Mas and sales and marketing director Eldrin Veloso.

Newly crowned Miss Asia Pacific International Philippines – Philippines 2024 Blessa Ericha Figueroa also graced the event.

MAPI 2024 is slated to hold its season activities in October.

Giving love on Valentine’s Day

Jose Patao Jr

February 16, 2024

King of the World Philippines founder and CEO Meg Perez (foreground in jacket) with the King of the World Philippines winners and beauty queens. Photo by Francois Diaz

THE winners of King of the World Philippines (KOTWPH) 2024 spent Valentine’s Day last Wednesday by sharing love in their first activity for the year after their coronation last January 28.

The King of the World organization, spearheaded by its founder and CEO Meg Perez, chose to have an intimate Valentine’s Day celebration with the cancer patients at The Child Haus Foundation in Ermita, Manila.

The kings felt they succeeded in bringing joy and excitement to the patients by showcasing their talents. In the same way, the kings felt fulfilled by the experience seeing the smiles on the faces of the residents of Child Haus.

Aside from the love, entertainment, time, effort and food brought by the KOTWPH team, they also donated a portion of grand winner Howell Adrian Pantollana’s cash prize to Child Haus residents.

With Pantollana at the event were his co-winners, namely, Axell Chico, Ezekiel Joel Mora, Elvandrick Pede, Christian Josua Cas Villones, Rizmel Cabigao, and runners-up Mohamed Emam and Errol Nacion.

Also present in this amazing event were Supermodel International Philippines grand winner Tala dela Cruz, Miss Supermodel Worldwide and now Miss Universe Philippines Laguna Alexandra Mae Rosales, friends from the media, handlers/provincial directors, King of the World Philippines – Halang Calamba Fron Alcano and members of King of the World Philippines Organization Lulu Pineda Solis and Carlo Aquino.

Perez also thanked their partners for the event, namely, Jacqueline Macale, Jerome Roble of Rome Essential, Ronald Rimolin of Rio’s Catering and Hemilyn Escudero Tamayo of Rocio’s Springs.

***

The search is on for Binibining Pilipinas 2024. The application form is available for download via www.bbpilipinas.com

Applications must be submitted at 8F Aurora Tower, BPCI Office, Gen. Malvar St. Araneta City, Quezon City. Deadline of submission is on March 22, 2024.

The country’s most prestigious and longest-running national beauty pageant will celebrate its diamond jubilee this year.

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