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Bb Pilipinas Gold: A postmortem

The fairest of them all. Miss Universe 2012 first runner-up and Miss Universe Philippines 2012 Janine Tugonon crowns her successor, Ariella Arida Photo from Missosology

Writer’s note: This article also appeared on Rappler.com. Read here.

The golden road to the crown has finally come to an end, with Ariella Arida of Alaminos, Laguna winning the Miss Universe Philippines 2013 title. The 24-year-old Chemistry graduate from UP Los Baños was never considered a front-runner but her victory was not questionable.

Going over my fearless forecast for Rappler, I got it right that Ariella might be the night’s most pleasant surprise. “Her fierce and feisty look make her stand out. With very expressive eyes and delectable lips, she’s too good for a runner-up finish so it won’t be a surprise if Ariella snatches the top plum.”

The silent killer
She is the perfect example of a “silent killer”. As the crowd went wild for heavy favorites Charmaine Elima, Mutya Datul, Mariel de Leon and Bea Santiago each time they appeared on stage, one might think the crown is just between these ladies. Ariella also had her fair share of applause, but she knows who to impress the most: the board of judges who will collectively seal the candidates’ fate.

Ariella exuded both sexiness and elegance as well as the right amount of confidence throughout the night. She showed off a healthy body in swimsuit, en route to winning the Best in Swimsuit award. Meanwhile, she sashayed grace and class in her asymmetrical venus cut white number.

When asked by judge Philippine National Police Director General Alan Purisima to name a lesson about life that women can teach men, Arida replied: “One lesson in life that women can teach men is being sensitive because we all know that men are more logical when it comes to decision[-making]. They’re usually more rational, straightforward. Unlike we women, we use our hearts and tend to get emotional in some of our decisions. So, that’s it for me. Sensitivity is something that we, women, can teach to men. Thank you.” Among all the finalists, it was her who made the most sense in the all-important question-and-answer portion. With most of the Binibinis allowing pressure to take over in this round, Ariella’s answer must have sealed the deal for her.

Miss Universe chances
It is still to early to predict Ariella’s chances in the Miss Universe 2013 pageant. One thing’s for sure, though, she’s got big shoes to fill following the Philippines’ three consecutive placements in the top five and Janine Tugonon’s first runner-up finish last December. However, her victory has been warmly received by pageant fans online. Many of them see her making waves in the international pageant.

To be honest, Ariella looked more polished than Shamcey Supsup and Janine Tugonon when the two won the crown in 2011 and 2012. This, however, doesn’t mean Ariella should relax. She needs to work on a lot (improving her form, creating a distinct walk and improving her communication skills and personality among others) in order to package herself as a Miss Universe candidate worthy of the crown. There’s a lot of pressure, involved but I’m confident this girl is transformable. If she was able to get rid of unwanted fats she had prior to joining Bb Pilipinas, there’s no doubt this girl will be more than prepared for the Olympics of beauty. Also, she’s under the tutelage of Aces & Queens’ Jonas Gaffud, the man behind Venus Raj, Shamcey and Janine. Ariella is in good hands.

Winners, too
Joining her in the winning circle were Bea Rose Santiago (BBP-International), Joanna Cindy Miranda (BBP-Tourism, Mutya Johanna Datul (BBP-Supranational) and Pia Wurtzbach (1st runner-up). Most people would agree that this is one of the strongest set of Bb Pilipinas winners in years.

BBP-International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago

Bea was among the most applauded not only because she had lots of supporters in the venue, but she truly deserves the accolade. She was glowing the whole night, especially in her evening gown. During the Q&A she was asked what the ideal Filipino is. ” The ideal Filipino is both proud and happy people,” she replied. She gave the most practical answer to an easy question. She got the crown from that moment. What a coincidence, though, because it was Miss International Beauty Pageant chairman Hirofumi Hashimoto who asked her the question. I can smell our sixth consecutive placement in the pageant.

BBP-Supranational Mutya Johanna Datul

Mutya was destined to win the top plum, until she opened her mouth. The momentum was already there after she bagged the Miss Photogenic award. She was the most applauded in the evening gown segment; no wonder she won Best in Evening Gown. The crowd really loved her, but she broke their heart with her answer to the final question.

It was expected that she would falter in this round. Prior to the finale, she has been vilified online for her English-speaking skills. Had she preferred to answer in the native tongue, she could have placed  higher. But it was the right decision to send her to Miss Supranational since there’s no Q&A segment there. Her inimitable charm and beauty will surely take Belarus, this year’s host country, by storm.

BBP-Tourism Joanna Cindy Miranda

Meanwhile, Cindy’s beauty was “unstoppable” all throughout despite ending her answer weakly. It is still known if Miss Tourism Queen International will be staged this year, but I’m confident that Miranda can easily make it to the semifinals.

BBP runner-up Pia Wurtzbach

Pia could have easily snatched a crown had she given a meatier answer to the question “What do you think is the greatest achievement of Binibining Pilipinas in its 50 years of existence?” She may be the only crownless girl in the top 5, but she’ll be receiving the same amount of training as the other ladies. This could give her an advantage if ever she decides to join again. I’m pretty sure she can do a Tugonon (first runner-up in 2011, Miss Universe Philippines in 2012). Should have listened to my first instinct when I said Miranda will bag a crown and Wurtzbach is a sure top 5 placer.

Suprises, upsets
Aside from the eventual top 5, Parul Shah, Grace Yann Apuad, Merry Joyce Respicio, Charmaine Elima and Mariel de Leon all made it to the top 15 as predicted. The inclusion of underdogs Rhea Nakpil, Amanda Noelle Navasero, Camille Nazar, Ellore Punzalan and Imelda Schweighart came as a surprise. Nakpil was just okay in both the swimsuit and evening gown segments, while Navasero’s pasarela was just awkward. Winning special awards from major sponsors must’ve given Punzalan (Manila Bulletin’s Readers’ Choice) and Schweighart (Miss Pagcor) free passes to the semis. Of the five candidates, Nazar gave the most acceptable performance. Meanwhile, what could be the reason behind the exclusion of favorites Ria Rabajante, Cassandra Naidas and Hannah Sison? Their performance was solid enough to make the cut, in my opinion.

Mariel, the most talked about candidate, failed to get a crown. It was surprising, given that she was among the most cheered and she was rumored to be another favorite of the organization. However, the judges might have not appreciated her timid beauty. Also, as I have said in my fearless forecast, Mariel is too raw for pageants at 19 years old.

Charmaine Elima struggles during the Q&A portion. Photo from Bb Pilipinas website

But the coronation night’s biggest letdown was the exclusion of heavy favorite Charmaine in the top 5. She was breezing through both rounds. But her answer to the final question costed her the crown. She probably has answer in mind but the pressure must have taken over. She should not lose hope; she is just 20 years old and could still come back in a year or two.

The production
The opening was magical, needless to say, nostalgic. Seeing some 70 past title-holders in one stage is a dream come true especially for die-hard pageant fans like me, what more seeing them walk on the red carpet one by one all glammed up and their top form. The musical attractions were good, especially during the first part of the evening gown segment. The production team, however, should’ve dropped the idea of having four matinee idols serenading the second batch of ladies in their evening gowns. Yes, there was “kilig” factor, but it just didn’t suit the pageant’s overall feel. Also, the song number was already finished but Binibini 48 was still on stage; the team had to put the background song on loop until Binibini 50 was done.

Martin Nievera and Dawn Zulueta

Martin Nievera and Dawn Zulueta did a good job. They had chemistry, but the former should have refrained from giving some nasty side comments especially during the Q&A portion. Meanwhile, Shamcey and Venus could have done a better job giving color commentaries than just promote the hair conditioner sponsor. The program can stand on its own even without them. The stage was better this year, it was small but completely utilized. The lighting effects helped in setting the mood for each of the program’s segments. The swimsuit portion seemed rushed; seeing all 50 girls strutting in bikinis was tiresome. Overall, the production was a marked improvement compared to last year.

We’ve only just began
Soon, the winners will be engaging into rigorous training sessions to shape both their minds and bodies for their respective international pageants. The pressure is on for them to keep the momentum going for the Philippines in the international pageant scene. But more than just the preparations, the determination to improve and the hunger to succeed must be there.

Will one of these girls bring home a crown to finally say the Philippines is legitimately back as a pageant powerhouse? The journey has just began.

Ariella Arida is Bb Pilipinas’ golden queen

The Golden Batch. Pia Wurtzbach, 1st runner-up; Cindy Miranda, BBP-Tourism; Ariella Arida, Miss Universe Philippines 2013; Bea Santiago, BBP-International; and Mutya Datul, BBP-Supranational. Photo from Yahoo

UP Los Banos graduate Ariella Arida was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2013 in glittering ceremonies marking Binibining Pilipinas’ 50th anniversary held on Sunday, April 14 at the Araneta Coliseum.

Arida, 24, will represent the country in Miss Universe 2013 to be held later this year. She also bagged the Best in Swimsuit award. Joining her in the winning circle are Bea Rose Santiago (BBP-International), Joanna Cindy Miranda (BBP-Tourism, Mutya Johanna Datul (BBP-Supranational) and Pia Wurtzbach (1st runner-up).

The completing the top 15 are: Imelda Schweighart, Grace Yann Apuad, Charmaine Elima, Rhea Nakpil, Amanda Noelle Navasero, Ellore Noelle Punzalan, Camille Carla Nazar, Maria Angelica de Leon, Merry Joyce Respicio, and Parul Shah

Special awardees were:

Miss Friendship: Lourenz Grace Remetillo.
Miss Talent: Anna Carmela Aquino.
Best in National Costume: Alaine Baccay.
Manila Bulletin Readers’ Choice Award: Ellore Noelle Punzalan.
Bb Petron: Joanna Cindy Miranda.
Miss Photogenic: Mutya Johanna Datul.
Best in Evening Gown: Mutya Johanna Datul
Best in Swimsuit: Ariella Arida
Bb Pilipinas-PAGCOR: Imelda Schweighart
Bb Philippine Airlines: Nicole Kim Donesa
Bb Avon: Bea Rose Santiago
Bb San Miguel Zero Fit and Sexy Body: Pia Wurtzbach
Cream Silk Beyond Beautiful Woman Award: Joanna Cindy Miranda

BEST BETS: My Final Choices for Binibining Pilipinas Gold

 

 

Writer’s note: This prediction article also appeared on Rappler.com. Click here.

It’s that time of the year again when the most beautiful women in the country battle it out in the annual Binibining Pilipinas.

The tilt gets even more interesting this year as the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc marks its 50th year. The race to the crown has become tougher and tighter with the election of 50 official candidates. Aside from this, the pressure is more intense this year following Janine Tugonon’s bridesmaid finish in Miss Universe last December.

With three consecutive runner-up finishes in Miss Universe (Venus Raj, 2010; Shamcey Supsup, 2011; and Tugonon, 2012) and five straight semi-finals placements in Miss International (Patricia Fernandez, 2008; the late Melody Gersbach, 2009; Krista Kleiner, 2010; Dianne Necio, 2011; and Nicole Schmitz, 2012), the eventual winners of the Binibining Pilipinas’ golden edition faces a huge challenge: keep the momentum going for the Philippines in the international pageant scene.

Who among this year’s candidates deserve to wear the Philippine sash in Miss Universe, Miss International, Miss Supranational and Miss Tourism Queen International? Here’s a list of who will likely emerge victorious on April 14.

15th: Mary Rose Pujanes (Binibini 15)
She may not be a favorite, but 20-year-old Rose has the pageant experience to prove her worth. Who would have though she used to be a shy girl prior to joining pageants? At 5’7.5″, Rose walks with so much confidence on stage. Her swag just sets the stage ablaze.

14th: Merry Joyce Respicio (Binibini 25)
She’s got the height (5’11″) and the modeling advantage, gracing the runways of Philippine Fashion Week and Metro Wear. Not the best in the beauty department, but 18-year-old Merry knows how to work her angles. She already has the goods, but she needs to improve on her communication skills; her interview during the BBP Primer wasn’t impressive.

13th: Grace Yann Apuad (Binibini 34)
This pretty face has already proven her mettle at an early age when she bagged the Most Photogenic award in Ford Supermodel of the World Philippines. Standing at 5’9″, it isn’t hard for Shan to get noticed. However, she seems to be playing it safe with her subdued performance during the press presentation. She needs to work on her stage presence come finals if she wants boost her chances.

12th: Hannah Ruth Sison (Binibini 19)
The Pastor’s daughter has one of the best smiles among the ladies. Ironically, 24-year-old Hannah got really noticed for her official glamour shot where she exuded so must fierceness. Her sophisticated look makes her all the more lovable. This Isabelle Daza dead-ringer’s regal stance, slender legs and curvaceous body, not to mention her excellent communication skills, make her an obvious contender.

11th: Mercegrace Raquel (Binibini 28)
Merce, 19, is banking on her morena beauty for a shot at a crown. Her impressive academic background and towering height give her better chances. But her biggest weapon would have to be her fluid catwalk skills, which is surprisingly one of the best in the batch. She has a Theresa Licaros (BBP-Universe 2007) vibe in her  beauty with brains. She’s prepared and is definitely within the radar.

10th: Ria Rabajante (Binibini 1)
As candidate number 1, Ria sure knows how to set the bar high. She was a revelation during the press presentation: her catwalk commands attention, her smile so winsome and her face just oozes with so much charisma. Pageant fans call her a cross-breed of Miriam Quiambao (BBP-Universe 1999) and Tetchie Agbayani (BBP 1978 semi-finalist). But this dusky lady impressed them with her gift of gab. At 21-year-old, she talks with so much depth. Watch out, this girl is a potential spoiler come Q&A.

9th: Cassandra Naidas (Binibini 24)
Simple yet head-turning is the best way to describe this 5’10″ half-Korean beauty. She was absolutely stunning in that black terno, but needs to tone her body more because she looks too skinny. This girl is no bimbo – she made sure she earned her Psychology degree before joining the pageant. Overall, this girl is ready to compete internationally. Miss Supranational, perhaps?

8th: Joanna Cindy Miranda (Binibini 16)
This 22 year-old Tourism cum laude graduate from UST has one of the freshest faces, not to say the healthiest bodies, too. She gave up her hosting stint at TV5′s Wil Time, Big Time to chase her dream of becoming a beauty queen. Despite the TV experience, Cindy seems a bit reserved. If this is a strategy, it’s not effective. Despite this, this girl’s face can easily light up a dark room. For that alone she deserves a spot.

7th: Pia Wurtzbach (Binibini 15)
With a stunning face to match her voluptuous body and 5’7.5″ stature, Pia definitely has a “front-runner” minted on her status. She doesn’t even need a lot of make up to stand out – her tantalizing eyes do all the talking. She made a solid impact when she worked her shiny gold terno with so much grace and sophistication during the press presentation. She could easily bag the BBP-International, given that the Philippines usually sends half-breed Filipinas there (Gersbach, Kleiner and most recently Schmitz). Her beautiful face sometimes appears too strong, so she needs to work on softening her features.

6th: Parul Shah (Binibini 33)
Not to be forgotten, this Wilma Doesnt dead-ringer literally owned the fashion show with her commanding presence. Parul may not be very photogenic but her stage motion is unparalleled. She may not have the most beautiful face but she has a big smile to warm people’s hearts. This half-Indian beauty’s well-toned body accentuated by her sun-kissed skin and vivacious personality sets her apart from the rest. Parul is X-factor personified.

First runner-up: Ariella Arida (Binibini 41)
She’s gaining strength as the pageant progresses, and who knows, she might become the coronation night’s biggest surprise. This Chemistry graduate from UP Los Baños is an experienced ramp model. She went home empty-handed in last year’s Miss Philippines Earth. It was understandable because she was out of shape back then. But when she appeared during the press presentation, she showed off the result of her patience and determination: a sexy wnd fit body. She also has a stunning faces. Her fierce and feisty look make her stand out. With very expressive eyes and delectable lips, shes too good for a runner-up finish or so it won’t be a surprise if Ariella snatches the top plum.

Binibining Pilipinas – Supranational: Bea Rose Santiago (Binibini 20)
Her beauty resembles that of Amelia Vega (Miss Universe 2003), but with an Asian flavor. She has the most refined walk. Her sophisticated body movements made her stick out among the rest during the press presentation. She was crowned Mutya ng Pilipinas Overseas Communities last year and went on to place in Miss Tourism Queen International of the Year. This experience could help her ace the competition. But she could do real damage in the all-important Q&A round with her excellent communication skillsg. Her glamorous beauty and model-ish stature at 5’9″ perfectly fits the Supranational prototype.

Binibining Pilipinas – Tourism: Charmaine Elima (Binibini 13)
By merely observing her actions, you’ll know that Charmaine knows what she is doing and has mastered it well. Among all the candidates, this 20-year-old lady is most ready to conquer the international pageant scene. Her fierce looks, wide smile, and well-toned body make her a shoo in for any contest out there. Local pageants have become Charmaine’s playground and winning the Miss Rizal and Miss Mandaluyong crowns seems to be working much to her advantage. She’s among the most talked about delegates because of her Asian-Latina features (South American beauties traditionally dominate pageants). However, she sometimes look too pageant patty to the point that even her answers to interview questions don’t appear natural. She needs to work on that. Despite this, Maine remains a strong contender for a title. You’ll love to see that gorgeous face promoting Philippine tourism.

Binibining Pilipinas – International: Maria Angelica De Leon (Binibini 31)
She is the most talked about delegate, mainly because she is the daughter of actors Christopher De Leon and Sandy Andolong. At 19 years old, Mariel seems too raw for pageants. Her body isn’t on top form, her styling a hit and miss. She may not be the most facially beautiful, but proper styling could work wonders for her. Pageant followers heard it through the grapevine that this girl is most favored to win a title. And having the most exposure during the fashion show seems a confirmation. She didn’t disappoint, however, because she sashayed grace and class on the runway. She has the breeding and the doll-like features that recent Miss International winners possess. She can do opera singing for the talent competition. Lastly, she exudes sincerity when she talks – something a candidate needs to win the judges’ nod. If she’s indeed the “anointed one”, the International crown fits her well.

Miss Universe Philippines 2013: Mutya Johanna Datul (Binibini 39)
People might mistake her for Aphrodite, because every encounter with Mutya is an encounter with inimitable beauty and charm. Right from the start, this girl has been considered as a front-runner. Compared to her stint in Mutya ng Pilipinas last year, this 20-year-old lady looks fresher and more polished now. Her body is more curvaceous, not to mention her well-toned legs that give her the svelte look. She has the effortless charm that could warm anyone’s hearts. But her best weapon is her winning smile. However many doubt her chances because she’s not that fluent in English. But in a web interview, she said she’s open to using an interpreter if ever she gets the chance to compete internationally. It must be remembered that Venezuela gained its powerhouse status in the world of pageantry not because its delegates are well-versed in English (most of them actually used interpreters), but because they are stunningly beautiful. It’s about time the Philippines reconsider this. After all, not all Miss Universe winners are fluent in English. Aside from this, Mutya perfectly fits the mold of recent Miss Universe winners: the sweet chick aura. It would be a crime to waste this beauty.

Photos from Binibining Pilipinas Facebook page. Graphics by Drew.

A sign of things to come?

I almost jumped off the cab when I saw JAG’s latest billboard along C-5 flyover. It was really surprising to see one of Binibining Pilipinas’ major sponsors saving a part of their ad space for the pageant.

But the real OMG moment was the choice of the photo:

Golden edition’s Top 5? Hannah Sison, Bea Santiago, Charmaine Elima, Mariel De Leon and Parul Shah

Charmaine Elima and Parul Shah are among the most touted by fans to win any of the crowns. Bea Santiago and Hannah Sison are considered by many as potential winners as well. Mariel De Leon, meanwhile, is the most talked about candidate mainly because she is the daughter of movie stars Sandy Andolong and Christophe De Leon (who is running for public office).

Is this a sign of what might transpire on April 14?

Dream team reunited

Finally, the long awaited dinner/reunion of the old Industry Watch team pushed through.Thanks to Kenn, who unexpectedly organized the gathering. Hopefully, makumpleto na tayo next time.

My Binibining Pilipinas 2013 Initial Picks

Binibining Pilipinas Gold has finally kicked off. Despite the fact that this season marks the 50th year of the most prestigious pageant in the country, some consider the season as lackluster. I slightly agree, but we still have a month to go. For sure, a lot are in store for both the candidates and the pageant aficionados.

Also, we can’t deny that we have a bunch of equally beautiful and deserving ladies. Until now, I still can’t pick my bets for the Universe, International, Tourism and Supranational (not sure though if they will give this title this year or the runner-up will be sent in Belarus) titles. This is an initial list of 15 ladies who I think can keep the flame alive for the Philippines this year.

* * *

Santiago, Respicio, Buquid, Apuad, Schweighart

Imelda Schweighart (Binibini 45) She is a Sandra Seifert dead-ringer, but I can’t deny her charm and youthful presence. I love her body, too. I’d love to see her up there, but at 17 she’s too raw for international pageants for me.

Grace Yann Apuad (Binibini 34) She has the Diana Arevalo look that I love so much – mature and sultry beauty. She has the height (5’8 1/2″) and the experience as a Supermodel of the Philippines finalist to her advantage. But based on what I’ve seen so far, she is a hit-and-miss when it comes to styling.

Anna Fernandina Buquid (Binibini 26) I’m no fan of this towering beauty, but I can’t deny she is very classy. Just one look and you’ll know she has breeding . She has a decent walk that can be improved. I like that she can wear light make-up and still look beautiful.

Merry Joyce Respicio (Binibini 25) One of the underrated beauties is the reigning Mutya ng Bulacan. Very Pinay beauty, this girl is a diamond in the rough. Height (5’11″) is her greatest advantage. While she may be a neophyte in national pageants, I personally consider her a dark horse.

Bea Rose Santiago (Binibini 20) She was crowned Mutya ng Pilipinas Overseas Communities last year and went on to place in Miss Tourism Queen International of the Year. An experienced model and contestant, she could surely give them newcomers a run for their money. She sometimes gives off a milf-y vibe, but one can’t deny how classy she is.

* * *

Fenger, Rabajante, Arida, Flores, Naidas

Cassandra Naidas (Binibini 24) From the start, I have always been impressed by how simple yet head-turning this 5’10″ half-Korean beauty is. I’m on the fence, however, if she should be sent to Miss Universe since East Asian beauties are usually not that appreciated in that arena. But I’d love to see this girl compete internationally. Miss Supranational, perhaps?

Zandra Flores (Binibini 3) She was robbed of a placement in Miss Philippines Earth 2012, where she represented Manaoag (Pangasinan). Her regal bearing and impressive academic background (went to University of Bradford in England) really suits the BBP mold. Very Filipina features, but surely with the brains, this girl won’t get ignored. And she has a good body, too.

Ariella Arida (Binibini 41) This Chemistry graduate from UP Los Baños is an experienced ramp model. She went home empty-handed in last year’s Miss Philippines Earth last year, where she represented Alaminos, Laguna. She has one of the most stunning faces in the batch. But what I love most is her eyes – very expressive. If given the proper styling, she could really stand out.

Ria Rabajante (Binibini 1) When I first saw her, I said: “Miriam Quiambao?” I’m not going gaga over her but I can’t ignore that exotic, fierce face. She’s definitely one of the strongest girls in the competition. Being the Binibini number 1 has its advantage: Ria could set the bar high for the competition.

Theresa Fenger (Binibini 35) I’m so in love with this 24 year-old Filipina-German beauty. She was Century Tuna Superbods winner years ago, which speaks a lot about her attitude toward fitness. She was a finalist in Canadian Idol in 2006, which says a lot about her talent. Her face registers a bit stronger, maybe due to her German blood. I want to see more from her, and I’m considering her for the International title. If she won’t penetrate the top 5, I hope she’ll try out for Miss World Philippines.

* * *

Wurztbach, Elima, Miranda, Bianzon, Datul

Mutya Johanna Datul (Binibini 39) At first, I really didn’t get the hype over Mutya. Initial photos didn’t impress me. But I find her winsome smile very captivating and so I researched more about this girl until I found that photo where she was wearing a black swimsuit. I love her stature. She has well-toned legs. Very fresh face that resembles Maricely Gonzalez of Panama: angelic! If given the right training, I definitely believe Mutya could be transformed into an Irene Esser. Bubbly personality, with a body to die for and a megawatt smile. Never count this girl out.

Ma. Bencelle Bianzon (Binibini 2) My sentimental favorite. She has a very workable beauty – she can do with heavy o light make-up and would still look great. She can sport any hairstyle and still look stunning. She seems polished and has experience in modeling. She may not be that tall, but she has a good face to offset that. She definitely has a bright future ahead of her. This girl can pull an upset come finals.

Joanna Cindy Miranda (Binibini 16) She represented Baguio in Miss Philippines Earth 2008 but was unnoticed. She was runner-up to Janine Tugonon in Miss UST 2010. This 22 year-old Tourism cum laude graduate from UST has one of the freshest faces, not to say the healthiest bodies, too. I’ve seen her during her Miss UST stint and I think she needs to work on her communication skills. Also, she seems a bit timid and shy-type. Despite her TV experience. Will Janine crown her runner-up this year? We’ll see. But I have a feeling this Tomasina might bag one of the crowns.

Charmaine Elima (Binibini 13) The first time I saw her, I thought she could pass as a Miss Venezuela candidate. With Miss Rizal and Miss Mandaluyong titles under her belt, it’s easy to say she’s a legitimate front-runner. Maine is exotic and sexy. And based on the interviews and videos I’ve seen of her, she seems very polished. However, she sometimes look too pageant patty to the point that her answers to interview questions don’t come off as natural. She needs to work on that. Also, she looks older with heavy make-up. She should experiment on making her look fresher and younger. But overall, she is a tough contender.

Pia Wurtzbach (Binibini 15) A Star Magic talent. She began modeling at 11, and began her show biz career at age 12 in 2001. I like her mestiza look, which is very different from the classic Pinay beauty of Janine Tugonon. She is the face of the competition, no doubt! I like that she experiments with her hairstyle – we get to see how she looks in whatever style she sports. I honestly want a mestiza for Universe this year, and Pia is a good choice. But I think she might settle for the International title. For now, I can safely say Pia is a sure top 5 placer.

This was first published on Missosology.info/forum
Photos of the candidates  from the BBP official  website