12 Metro Manila Official Candidates for Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 L-R #38 Marjorie Acuna, #48 Greta Lovisa Buco, #24 Kristian Aubrey Nolasco, #69 Ma. Elena Jose, #21 Zandra Flores, #62 Alyanna Mikaela Cagandahan, #65 Sumaya Abu Alhalawa, #15 hazel Corral, #49 Joselle Mariano, #8 Catherine Denise Trivino, #68 Marichat Evaristo and #37 Koreen Medina

ABQ had the honor of being on the screening committee for the Metro Manila search for the official candidates for this years Mutya Ng Pilipinas beauty pageant!

After 3 days of rigorous screening at the Sequioa Hotel in Quezon City we were able to pare down 79 applicants to 12. These 12 girls are part of the official list of candidates for the Mutya Ng Pilipinas 2013 beauty pageant. They are (numbers are their official screening numbers):

Allison Almario of Fil-Canada with Jefferson Tan of Mutya ng Pilipinas being interviewed by media

37) Koreen Medina
38) Marjorie Acuna
68) Marichat Evaristo
48) Greta Lovisa Buco
8) Catherine Denise Trivino
24) Kristian Aubrey Nolasco
49) Joselle Mariano
69) Ma. Elena Jose
15) Hazel Corral
21) Zandra Flores
65) Sumaya Abu Al Halawa
62) Alyanna Mikaela Cagandahan

This is not yet the final roster of candidates for Mutya 2013. Eighteen other candidates will be coming in from overseas Filipino communities as well as the provinces.

But there was one candidate from overseas present at the screening: Allison Almario representing the Fil-Canada community. She’s the first overseas contestant to arrive in Manila for the beauty tilt.

Stay tuned to ABQ for the complete list of Mutya Ng Pilipinas 2013 official candidates!

The Coronation of Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 will be on July 26, 2013 at the NBC Tent, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Screening Judges on Day 1 – L-R Jon -Jon Posadas, Irma Montemayor, Jefferson Tan, Lorna Legaspi, Joyce Burton Titular (ABQ Author), Renee Salud and Kristine Caballero Aplal

Congratulations to Alexis Go, National Director of Mr and Miss Chinatown Philippines for a well-staged competition last Sunday, June 30, 2013 at Resorts World. Finally, we’ve got a classy contest that shows off the gorgeousness of our Fil-Chinese hunks and beauties!

Based on the photo above, here are our Top 6 Winners:

From left: 2nd runner-up Candidate#3 Michelle Marie Sy; 1st-runner-up Candidate#9 Maricon Cho; Ms.Chinatown Phils.’13 Candidate#4 Rolini Lim Pineda; Mr.Chinatown Phils.’13 Candidate#8 Randy See;Mr.Chinatown Phils.first runner-up’13 is Candidate#13 Jerome Tan and Candidate#14 Sky Yang emerged as 2nd runner-up,Mr.Chinatown Phils.’13

Special Awards:

Mr. Photogenic: Sky Yang
Ms. Photogenic: Jerene Tan
Mr. Congeniality: Jose Miguel Lasala
Ms. Congeniality: Marichon Cho
Mr. Talent: Oliver Chen
Ms. Talent: Jerene Tan

Best in cultural attire: Anna Patricia Tan
Best in active wear: Randy See
Best in swimsuit: Marichon Cho
Best in informal wear: Randy See
Best in evening gown: Rolini Lim Pineda

Also, making it to the top 12 of the pageant were Sydney Du, Jose Miguel Lasala, Jaime Lim Ripoll, Sheryl Elaine Chua, Samantha Jade Dy, and Catherine Yao.

Courtesy of ABQ Correspondent and Researcher Ronald Villanor, Davao

Mrs. Globe 2013 Sheryl Lynn Baas of the Netherlands. Statuesque and doll-like!

Statuesque and doll-like, Mrs. Globe 2013 Sheryl Lynn Baas gamely posed for photographers who waylaid her before she could even enter the board room for her Press Con at Ascott, Makati.

“Misis ba yan? Sobrang ganda!” I heard a few hotel staffers say. I laughed to myself thinking that Sheryl Lynn Baas indeed looked as fresh as a debutante at her party.

But more amazing than her stunning looks was the revelation that Sheryl Lynn Baas is half-Filipina and half-Dutch. Her mom, Susan Paderes grew up in a very poor family of 13 children in Matalom, Leyte.

On the website of her charity, The Sheryl Lynn Foundation, she writes:

“Growing up, the Philippine people & culture have always been a great part of me.  Ever since I was a little girl I always hoped that one day I could find a way to make a significant difference for the Philippine people who live in poverty.

Mrs. Globe 2013 Sheryl Lynn Baas (with crown) claps as her best friend Miss Netherlands 2010 Desiree Van Den Berg is introduced to the press…

Mrs. Globe 2013 Sheryl Lynn Baas recieves a bronze jeepney from Mrs. Globe Philippines National Directress Carla Cabrera Quimpo… because the journey continues…

Sheryl Baas with her mom Susan Paderes Baas. Mom Susan suffered a debiliatating stroke in 2008 but still remains active, behind-the-scenes, as Vice President of Sheryl’s foundation.

Mrs. Globe 2013 Sheryl Lynn Baas (middle) with Mrs. Philippines Globe 2013 Ruby Lehman (in green) and Mrs. Philippines Globe 2012 Joyce Agsaway (black)

Note: Sheryl Baas actually came in second in the Mrs. Globe 2012 pageant which Philippine representative Joyce Agsaway (in black above) competed in. But the winner from Ukraine decided to resign in order to pursue an acting career in her country. So the Mrs. Globe organization passed the crown to Sheryl Lynn but instead of giving her the Mrs Globe 2012 title, they gave her the Mrs. Globe 2013 title. The winner of this year’s Mrs. Globe (to be held in October 2013 in china) with have the title – Mrs. Globe 2014.

The blogging beauty queen Joyce Burton Titular with Mrs Globe 2013 Sheryl Lynn Baas

Monica Misenas, Miss Humanity Philippines 2013

Blessings to Monica Misenas as she flies today (July 6, 2013) on an Emirates flight to Barbados to represent the Philippines in the Miss Humanity International 2013 beauty pageant. It’ll be a tedious 30-hour trip with two stop overs for Monica but at least she won’t be alone; her mom Baby will be with her all the way.

Monica wasn’t supposed to compete though in Barbados. She had her heart set on Mutya ng Pilipinas.

“Gusto ko talaga mag-compete sa Mutya. In fact nag-screen ako on Day 1. (Indeed, she was there. I happened to be on the screening committee.) But then the doors opened to Miss Humanity so I’m taking that path,” she said.

L-R ABQ’s Author (that’s me in mustard), Baby Misenas (middle) and her daughter Miss Humanity Philippines 2013 Monica Misenas

Monica Minesas said the problem was funding. Although the CEO of Miss Humanity International, Stephanie Chase, had given Monica the go signal to represent the Philippines, she still had to find support to pay for her trip and for sponsors to cover her pageant needs. She had less than a month to raise the funds and with the help of relatives and friends, she and Mom Baby were able to raise funding in time for the pageant. Unfortunately, there is no local pageant for Miss Humanity International so whomever has the franchise or right to send the Philippine contestant has to shell out support.

The kawayan cracked open and out stepped: Maganda!

Getting to know Miss Humanity Philippines 2013 Monica Misenas

Monica is a 23-year-old Tourism graduate from Centro Escolar University in Manila. She is 5’6″ tall with a 23″ waistline that made me instantly jealous!

Growing up as an introverted girl in glasses, she was always teased as ‘kawayan‘ for her thinness or ‘negra‘ for her dark skin. As a result she always felt unattractive. I thought to myself that kawayan or bamboo was not such a bad name to be called since the giant species of grass has always been beautiful to me but I guess for someone born naturally thin, it would be an insult.

But in high school the ‘kawayan‘ began to blossom. People started to notice her willowy frame and huge luminous dark eyes; some suggested that Monica should try modeling. “Dream ko talagang mag-model at maging beauty queen,” Monica reveals, “but I did not realize that I have the physical qualities pala until I was older. So here I am now, fulfilling my dream!”

Because of her experience being teased and bullied as a child, Monica Misenas has made Anti-Bullying her advocacy. “I chose this advocacy because I know what it’s like and because it’s something we all can relate to. You can be old or young, rich or poor, male or female and be bullied.” She fervently adds, “People need to know that name-calling is wrong! And as for those who used to call me names, I’ve forgiven them already. In fact, many of them are my friends now on Facebook.”

Her eyes come alive when Monica Misenas smiles!

Preps for Barbados

Getting ready for Miss Humanity International 2013 was a whirlwind project for Monica Misenas. But she was able to get some fast-track training from Bb. Pilipinas Universe 2002 Karen Agustin and beauty-queen-maker Rodgil Flores. Her main gowns and National Costume are by Edwin Uy. The rest of her competition wardrobe and daily outfits are sponsored by Julius Ornum and Rizzi Calzado. As for her hair and make-up, the Miss Humanity organizers have provided a crew but Monica is trained to do her own styling in case she has to.

With the Philippines doing extremely well in Miss Humanity (the  two previous Philippine queens Czarina Gatbonton and Ayelee Dasalla, made it as runners-up) is Monica pressured to win?

With a big nod, she said, “Yes, I’m very pressured but at the same time I’m so excited!  And even if there is pressure, I believe that I was destined for this pageant because I was supposed to be working on a cruise ship by now! Kaya lang nagka-fever ako so I could not leave. After that, my plans to join Mutya ng Pilipinas did not work out. Then suddenly God provided sponsors for all my needs to compete Barbados. This must be His will! So I promise to do my best and bring home the crown.”

But does Monica Misenas have what it takes to win?

With a fierce gleam in her eye she said, “If you look at the past two winners of Miss Humanity International, they are black. So my dark complexion will be an asset. And my passion to win is so strong  I believe I will shine. I want to raise the flag of the Philippines and represent Asia as well because I am the epitome of an Asian beauty!”

May you carry the colors of Asia and the Philippines well Monica! Bring home the Humanity Crown!

The Miss Humanity International 2013 will be held in Barbados from July 7 to 15, 2013. Coronation night is July 14, 2013. Please stay tuned to ABQ for the results!

Please show your support for Monica Misenas and the Philippines by liking the Miss Humanity International Facebook and liking her Official Pageant Photo. The contestant with the most online votes will win a special award! click on the links and support our girl now!

Monica Misenas’ official Miss Humanity 2013 profile pic…

Actress Rinko Kikuchi as Mako Mori in Pacific Rim

Pacific Rim gets 4 Tiaras from ABQ! Thank you to SM Mall of Asia and Warner Brothers for the invite to watch the film at MOA’s IMAX Theater.

Big doesn’t even begin to describe Guillermo del Toro’s latest sci-fi offering, Pacific Rim; from beginning to end, size is what matters!

My suggestion? Watch it in IMAX to get the maximum effect of clashing mecha robots (the human-controlled Jaegers) and alien monsters (the Kaiju).

But if your budget is less than monstrous, watch it in 3D. It is definitely worth it. But even if you opt for the 2D version, you’re bound to enjoy Pacific Rim because of its engaging story of love and heroism welded between the fabulously huge action scenes.

To guys who love robots: its okay to bring your girlfriend (or boyfriend) to watch Pacific Rim (there are several kilig moments and touching scenes), but I’d be careful with bringing kids. The movie is R13 after all and for several good reasons:

-The fight scenes between the behemoths are pure gut-wrenching violence. They must NOT be tried at home with a younger sibling.

- The darkly beautiful Kaiju aliens of classic Del Toro design are scarier and louder than Godzilla could ever hope to be. Look below.

-Hardly any blood flies around during the fight scenes between Jaegers and Kaiju. But some humans did get bruised, cut-up, cut-down and wounded so you’ll see some blood in those scenes. There are death scenes too involving people which could disturb gentler minds.

But the scenes that really had my throat working up and down involved a little Japanese girl who was trapped by one of the alien Kaiju. Seeing her so frightened, running and crying was more terrifying to me than all of the fight scenes put together. Let me just say that I felt her fear down to my toes.

Therefore, ABQ bequeaths the Best Actress award to the little girl who played the role. She outdid lead actress Rinko Kikuchi by a mile. (The girl was playing Rinko’s younger version.)

Aside from the great monster battles, the heart-warming story of love and heroism, the science behind the film’s premise (which was cool to me), I also really loved it that Manila was mentioned several times in the movie. For that alone, you REALLY have to watch it!

Aura Donna Garon (in blue) and Clarize Angelica Barrameda (in fuschia) are the official Philippine representatives to Miss South East Asian 2013!

TWO PINAYS FIGHTING FOR ONE CROWN!

ABQ says fare-thee-well to 2 fab Filipinas flying off to Bangkok, Thailand to represent the Philippines in the first edition of Miss South East Asian 2013! Aura Donna Garon and Clarize Angelica Barrameda, both alumnae of Miss Philippines Earth, depart on July 20, 2013. They have less than 5 days to impress the judges and organizers as coronation comes swift on July 24.

And indeed, they will be fighting for the same crown!

“Its a competition, yes,” says Angel, “but in our minds, I’m not Miss Angel and Donna is not Miss Donna. We are both Miss Philippines, competing for our nation.”

Donna adds, “I believe our friendship will always be there in spite of the competition. Angel and I will always treasure that!”

From what ABQ saw at their send-off at Fernandina Suites in Quezon City, the girls seemed to get along really well, always referring to each other when they answered questions from the press.

DONNA AND ANGEL: REPLACEMENT CANDIDATES?

ABQ got the press conference rolling with a question about how they got chosen. Donna explained that they were handpicked by National Pageant Director Mac Taug who also happens to be their official designer. Then a little intrigue popped up when Angel admitted that she and Donna were replacements. The two girls who were originally set to compete in Miss South East Asian 2013 were Charisse Marie Sisperez (a Miss Philippines Earth 2010 candidate) and Dale Ivory Lee (one of my favorites in Mutya ng Pilipinas 2012).

Philippine Pageant Director Mac Taug explained that there were difficulties with each of them. In the case of Dale Ivory Lee, he says Dale insisted on having her own training schedule but Mac felt it wasn’t right for him to make beauty queen/trainer Hemilyn Escudero adjust her time to suit Dale’s.

As for Charisse Marie Sisperez, Mac says she kept missing her training days because of an unspecified illness.

In spite of the setbacks, Pageant Director Mac Taug was able to quickly find worthy (and perhaps better?) replacements. “Confident ako na Donna and Angel will do an excellent job in Miss South East Asian 2013!”

ABQ hopes that Donna Garon and Angel Barrameda will indeed be the last women standing on July 24, 2013 at the Miss South East Asian beauty pageant!

Find out more about Donna Garon and Angel Barrameda, just click on their names below to read a short bio of each girl.

Aura Donna Garon

Clarize Angelica Barrameda

*****

Miss South East Asian is a regional pageant on it’s first edition. It started as a cultural showcase in celebration of music, costume and traditional dance in Bangkok. The pageant, which allows each nation in the region to send two representatives, aims to unite young South East Asian women to share common values and foster friendship and understanding. The 2013 Miss South East Asian batch will compete in Heritage Costume, Cultural Presentation, Swimsuit and Evening Gown. They will be trimmed down to 5 finalists by the judges for the interview which will conclude in the crowning of Miss Southeast Asian 2013!

Highlights of the Miss Southeast Asian 2013 will be webcast to the world via http://www.misssoutheastasian.net

Click here to get to Miss South East Asian’s Facebook Page

Monica Misenas – Miss Humanity 2013′s Continental Queen of Asia!

Congratulations to Monica Misenas who did the Philippines proud after making it into the Top 5 and winning a special title and special award at the Miss Humanity International 2013 which was held on July 14, 2013 in Barbados!

Monica Misenas won the Continental Queen of Asia edging out two other Asian nations (Japan and Mongolia) in the pageant. She also nabbed the People’s Choice Award for getting the most Facebook and website votes. Click here to read my one-on-one interview with Monica Misenas before she left for Miss Humanity.

Monica Misenas does a Philippine Dance

WINNERS of Miss Humanity International 2013:

(Results and photos on this post found on the Miss Humanity Facebook Page, click here to get there!)

Beauty On A Mission – Portugal

Best Costume – Antigua & Barbuda

Best Interview – Portugal

Best Gown – Trinidad & Tobago

Best Swimwear – Venezuela

Best Talent – Barbados

Miss Congeniality – Portugal

Miss Photogenic – Portugal

People’s Choice – Philippines

Continental Queen of Asia – Philippines

Continental Queen of Africa – Gabon

Continental Queen of America – Venezuela

Continental Queen of Europe – Portugal

2nd Runner Up Paula Meteau VENEZUELA

1st Runner Up Breige Wilson TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

MISS HUMANITY INTERNATIONAL 2013 NURIA CARDOSO PORTUGAL

Top 3 Winners – L-R: 1st RU Breige Wilson of TRINIDAD & TOBAGO, MISS HUMANITY INT’L 2013 winner Nuria Cardoso of PORTUGAL and 2nd RU Paula Meteau of VENEZUELA

Aura Donna Garon is set to compete in the Miss South East Asian 2013 beauty pageant!

Aura Donna Garon is one of two Filipinas hand-picked to compete in the Miss South East Asian 2013 beauty pageant to be held on July 24, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. Here are some basic details on Donna:

Donna Garon at her send-off before Miss South East Asian 2013!

Name: Aura Donna Garon better known as “Donna”

Age: 22 (as of July 2013)

Height: 5’5″

Educational Background:  Bachelor of Nursing, College of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Pampanga

Residence:

Donna divides her time between the Philippines and the US. When in the Philippines, she considers Mabalacat, Pampanga her home and when in the US, she stays in San Diego but has lived a considerable number of years in Sacramento, California.

Pageant History:

Aura Donna Garon may only be 22 years old but she is already considered a pageant veteran due to the many competitions she has joined. These include:

Mutya ng Tarlac 2010 (1st Runner-up)

Miss Global 2010 Tarlac (winner)

Miss Philippines Earth 2010 (represented Tarlac. Unplaced but won Miss Talent)

Miss Mabalacat 2011 (winner)

Miss Philippines USA 2012 (1st Runner-up)

Miss Philippines Earth 2013 (represented Mabalacat. Unplaced but won Best in Evening Gown)

Donna Garon – left photo during Miss Philippines Earth 2010, right photo during Miss Philippines Earth 2013

Family:

Aura Donna Garon is the daughter of June Garon and Ermie Garon, both Civil Engineers. She has 5 other siblings – Diane, Danica, Daphne, Ron and Angelo. In 2010, their family received a very special honor – Model Family of 2010. They received their award from President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.

Advocacy:

Donna Garon is deeply involved with the Global Workers and Family Federation Inc., a group that promotes the rights and welfare of OFWs and their families. She has been the official Ambassadress and Spokesperson for GWFFI since 2011. Her Mom, Engr. Ermie Garon is the group’s President. She also sits on the Board of Trustees of OWWA, The Overseas Workers’ Welfare Administration.

In preparation for Miss South East Asian 2013, Donna Garon completed her training with Hemilyn Escudero (left) of Total Image. Mac Taug (right) is the National Pageant Director in the Philippines.

Special Skills:

Aside from competing in beauty pageants and modeling, Donna Garon is skilled in modern and cultural dance. She will be performing a Muslim Dance at the Miss South East Asian 2013. Her most dominant skill though is communication. Donna has a great command of English and has experience in hosting, teaching, facilitating talks, psycho-social counseling and coaching.

Clarize Angelica Barrameda will represent the Philippines in Miss South East Asian 2013 on July 24, 2013!

Clarize Angelica Barrameda is one of two Filipinas hand-picked to compete in the Miss South East Asian 2013 beauty pageant to be held on July 24, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. Here are some basic details on Angel:

Clarize Angelica Barrameda at her send-off for Miss South East Asian 2013

Name: Clarize Angelica Barrameda, fondly called Angel

Age: 21 years old (as of July 2013)

Height: 5’6″

Educational Background: Angel is a graduate of Mass Communication, New Era University, Manila. She is currently taking up her Masters in Education at the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication in Greenhills.

Pageant History:

Clarize Angelica Barrameda has joined more than a handful of beauty pageants, including two national pageants – Miss Philippines Earth and Mutya ng Pilipinas. Although she was unplaced in both, all her experience will give her the necessary skills to prevail when she competes in Miss South East Asian 2013. The pageants she has joined are -

Bb. Caloocan 2011 (Winner)

Miss Philippines Earth 2011 (She represented Caloocan city. This was the year when MPE had a reality show twist – candidates were eliminated 10 girls at a time. All of us pageant fans hated it. Angel, unfortunately, was eliminated in Round 2.)

Bb. Unibersidad 2011 (Unplaced)

Miss Silka GMA 2011 (Winner)

Slimmer’s World Miss Bikini Philippines 2012 (Contestant #5, unplaced)

Mutya ng Pilipinas 2012 (Contestant #4, unplaced. She was one of my Top 12 Picks)

Miss Tourism World Philippines 2013 (Contestant #8, unplaced)

Clarize Angelica Barrameda in Slimmer’s Miss Bikini Philippines 2012 (left) and in Mutya ng Pilipinas 2012 (right)

Photo above on the left from FabManila

Special Skills:

Aside from acting, hosting and cooking, Angel loves to model and because of her sweet Filipina beauty, she was recently featured in major bridal magazine spread. She can also dance well and will present a T’Boli dance number at the Miss South East Asian 2013 beauty pageant.

Goals in Life:

Finishing her Masters in Education is just a fallback plan of Angel Barrameda; her ultimate goal is to put up a food or spa business. One other big life goal is to become an actress and looking at her fabulous shot below, she’s got all the basic ingredients to one day fill the silver screen!

Clarize Angelica Barrameda in the December 2012 Issue of Real Bride Magazine

Oh fiddlesticks! I missed the Press Presentation of Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 (July 11, 2013) because I had a shoot for Studio 23′s reality show – Gusto Kong Maging Beauty Queen – happening at the same time. I’m a guest judge in that show.

But I’ll definitely be at the Mutya 2013 coronation  at the NBC Tent on July 26, 2013!

Anyway, below are the 31 official candidates of Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013.

Names in RED are my ULTIMATE favorite headshots and those in GREEN are my next favorite ones. Just want to clarify that they are not my favorite girls to win Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013. I’m keeping my favorite girls a secret until coronation night out of delicadeza since I was involved in the Metro Manila screening as a judge.

This list of favorites is purely based on the photos I liked best. My criteria are: 1) make-up naturally flows with the girl’s beauty, 2) photogenic quality of the contestant, 3) a smile that reflects a strong personality and 4) styling.

What about you? Whose head shots do you like the best?

My Ultimate Favorite Head Shots in Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 – L-R Contestants #1, #6, #9, #13, #15, #19, #21 and #29

My next set of favorite Head Shots in Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 – L-R #17, #20, #23 and #30

**********

The contestants of Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013:

#1 Allison Almario – 18 yo – 5’5″ – Mutya ng Canada

#2 Shella May Las Pinas – 22 yo – 5’5″ -  Mutya ng Dumaguete City

#3 Sumaya Abu Al Halawa – 20 yo – 5’5″ -  Mutya ng Lipa City, Batangas

#4 Alyanna Mikaela Cagandahan -     19 yo – 5’5″ – Mutya ng Sta. Cruz, Laguna

#5 Ma. Elena Jose – 18 yo – 5’5″      Mutya ng Angeles City

#6 Angeli Dione Gomez – 20 yo – 5’5.5″ – Mutya ng Cebu City

#7 Princess Diana Mindermann – 22 yo – 5’5.5″ -  Mutya ng Bacolod

#8 Jenny Vhet Zabate – 19 yo – 5’5.5″ Mutya ng Lapu Lapu City

#9 Zandra Flores – 24 yo – 5’5.5″ -  Mutya ng Pangasinan

#10 Marjorie Acuna – 24 yo – 5’6″ -  Mutya ng Gerona, Tarlac

#11 Marichat Evaristo – 21 yo – 5’6″ -  Mutya ng Bacolor, Pampanga

#12 Jessarie Dumaguing – 18 yo – 5’6″ -  Mutya ng Palawan

#13 Maureen Ann Montagne – 20 yo – 5’6.5″ -  Mutya ng Arizona

#14 Tishiana Mann – 21 yo – 5’6″ -  Mutya ng California

#15 Asdis Liza Karsdottir – 20 yo – 5’6″ -  Mutya ng Iceland

#16 Joselle Mariano – 18 yo – 5’5.5″ -  Mutya ng Cavite

#17 Crizel Jayn Quidlat – 18 yo – 5’6.5″ -  Mutya ng Iligan City

#18 Jan Krisnah Catague – 19 yo – 5’7″ -  Mutya ng Iloilo City

#19 Greta Lovisa Buco – 22 yo – 5’7″ -  Mutya ng Cainta, Rizal

#20 Catherine Denise Trivino – 21 yo – 5’6.5″ -  Mutya ng Sta. Rosa, Laguna

#21 Koreen Medina – 18 yo – 5’6.5″ -  Mutya ng Quezon City

#22 Kristian Aubrey Nolasco – 19 yo – 5’7.5″ -  Mutya ng Caloocan

#23 Ednornance Agustin – 23 yo – 5’7.5″ -  Mutya ng Davao City

#24 Madison Elliot – 23 yo – 5’7″ -  Mutya ng Maryland

#25 Hazel Corral – 19 yo – 5’6.5″ -  Mutya ng Cabuyao, Laguna

#26 Ivy Camille Villanueva – 22 yo – 5’6.5″ -  Mutya ng Central Luzon

#27 Victoria Humblet – 23 yo – 5’7.5″ -  Mutya ng Germany

#28 Precious Joy Masiclat – 19 yo – 5’7″ -  Mutya ng Mabalacat

#29 Vina Openiano – 20 yo – 5’8.5″ -  Mutya ng Province of Laguna

#30 Nelda Ibe – 20 yo – 5’8.5″ –       Mutya ng Province of Tarlac

#31 Nazita Reyhanian – 24 yo – 6’0″ -  Mutya ng Scandinavia

**********

Notable Contestants (if any of you readers have something notable to share about a contestant, please drop me a note in the comments section…)

#6 Angeli Dione Gomez

Angeli is a Binibining Pilipinas Gold (2013) Candidate.

#9 Zandra Flores

Zandra is the Best in Cultural Attire winner in Miss Philippines Earth 2012 Pageant and is a Bb. Pilipinas Gold (2013) candidate.

#21 Koreen Medina

Koreen could be the most famous face in this year’s Mutya ng Pilipinas. She is a Pilipinas Got Talent Season 2 contestant, the Grand Prize Winner in the Coca-Cola Music Talent Search Finals December 2011, and the Grand Winner of “My Girl” a beauty pageant-like search on ABS-CBN.

**********
Thank you to ABQ correspondent, Ronald Villamor, Davao City

Stephanie Malibiran, Mrs. Asia Tourism International 2013

“I finally learned to relax and enjoy a pageant,” declares Stephanie Malibiran, who was recently crowned Mrs Asia Tourism International 2013 in a glitzy affair held in Malaysia. ”I’ve been competing in pageants since I was 16 and tend to be over-competitive but this time around I decided relax, have fun and make friends. And it worked!”

Click here to read my article on Steph Malibiran before she competed in Mrs. Asia International 2013.

The young mom admits that the worst pageant heartbreak she ever experienced was not winning in a local pageant last year. “Even if I was a runner-up in Mrs. Philippines Globe 2012, I felt like I lost. I had this super-confident attitude so when I didn’t get the crown I was so affected. And because of the ‘hiya‘ (shame) factor, I didn’t go out of my house for a month!”

What Stephanie Malibiran didn’t expect was a call, months after losing in that pageant, from Carla Cabrera Quimpo, the National Directress of Mrs Philippines Globe asking her to represent the Philippines in an international competition: Mrs. Asia International 2013.  ”When Ms Carla called me with the offer I was so thrilled! But because of my past loss I decided not to tell my friends that I was going to compete in Malaysia.”

Steph also decided to take a different ‘competitive approach’. “I changed my attitude and focused on winning Miss Friendship. It worked wonders! Although I didn’t win that award, the contests from India and Singapore were chanting my name before the Miss Friendship winner was announced!”

Steph Malibiran on the catwalk at Mrs. Asia International 2013! Thanks to Missosology for the photo!

More photos on Missosology HERE!

According to Stephanie, who is a professional make-up artist, she gained friendships by teaching several candidates how improve their make-up and style their hair. ”Feeling ko, impressed sila sa amin ni Lubesly Tellidua (Lubesly also represented the Philippines in the same pageant and placed 1st Runner up) kasi everyday, from breakfast to dinner, glamorosa kami. Complete with hair, make-up and outfit.”

She adds that the innate gracefulness of the Pinay made them stand out. “Many of my co-contestants did not have a lot experience in walking. They would ask me for help and I taught them the basics of the catwalk.” It seems that being generous to the competition didn’t lessen her chances of winning; in fact, Steph won one of the 5 titles in her division.

If you’re wondering about why so many crowns, Steph explains, “There are two divisions in the pageant – Mrs Asia International for younger married women and Classic Mrs Asia International which is for contests 46 years and older. Each division gives out 5 Titles and 2 Runners-up positions. The titles are All Nations, Global, Tourism, International and Cosmopolitan.” Aside from having 5 titles per division, Steph says each nation can send 5 representatives.

I asked Steph which of the 5 titles was awarded last. I figured that that would be the most important crown. Steph said, “The Global title was awarded last. It went to Sri Lanka. I was crowned right before her!”

Steph Malibiran is 2nd from the right. Note that all winners receive the same cash prize which lends credence to the pageant’s claim that all of its title-holders are equal winners. Thanks to Sash Factor for this one!

More photos on Sash Factor!

Up to now, Stephanie Malibiran still can’t believe she is a full-fledged beauty title winner; an International one at that. With a toothsome grin she said, “After winning in Malaysia I saw my pictures everywhere! I felt high, like I was on Cloud 9.”

So, what’s next step for Steph?

“Well, right after I won, someone asked me if I was going to join Mrs. World. I said that I didn’t have plans because I’m happy with this title already.” But she does have career goals. Steph intimated that she’ll be teaching Bridal and Beauty make-up at Cheryl Cabanos Make-up Academy on Timog; the same school where she recently graduated. She says, “I think having an international title is going to help push my career as a make-up artist and teacher. The offer came right after I won.”

Her advice to other moms and wives who dream of becoming beauty queens?

“Well, first, don’t compete too much! Just have fun, make friends, share what you know and don’t starve yourself. Feel and be beautiful all the time!”

Congratulations once again to Steph Malibiran for winning Mrs Asia Tourism International 2013 and making the Filipina shine abroad!

Its never too late for you to achieve that dream of becoming a beauty queen! Click here to find out more about the Mrs. Philippines Globe beauty pageant. 

ABQ author Joyce Burton Titular (left) with Mrs. Asia Tourism International 2013, Stephanie Malibiran

Jenny Syquia (left) with Adventures of a Beauty Queen author Joyce Burton Titular

Did you know that former Viva Entertainment Actress and TV Celebrity Jenny Syquia was a former beauty queen?

She told me this at the first screening of Miss World Philippines 2013 where we both were judges. In the middle of our chat Jenny said, “I was actually a beauty queen once. I was Miss Teenager of New York in the early 80s when I was only 13 years old!”

So what’s Jenny Syquia doing back in Manila? She’s here to jump start her daughter Chloe’s showbiz career. Chloe Concepcion wants to act, sing, dance, you name it! FYI, Chloe is Gabby Concepcion’s daughter so KC Concepcion is her half-sister.

Mom Jenny says that she’s working on a reality show which she hopes to produce herself and is currently shopping for the right TV Network to broadcast it. “I want to be the Kris Jenner and Chloe, the Kim Kardashian of the Philippines. The show is going to be crazy fun, I promise you!”

Chloe, meantime, had to field questions from pageant fans asking if she has any plans of joining Miss World Philippines. With a shy smile the 5’7″ beauty said, “Well, maybe one day I’ll join the girls at one of the screenings! Its not impossible!”

So, ABQ Readers, what do you think? Should Chloe Concepcion give beauty pageants a try? Or should she just stick to showbiz?

Chloe Syquia Concepcion… so deliciously pretty!

Congratulations to Butch Requinta! That’s former Mutya ng Pilipinas runner-up Jane Umali (left) with Dr. Shae Raymundo of Dermalosophy

Congratulations to our grand prize winner: Butch Requinta, a professor of European Languages, for winning ABQ’s Dermalosophy Contest! He won the raffle and gets a special derma consultation with Dr. Shae Raymundo at her clinic Dermalosophy which is located on Ortigas right across Robinson’s Galleria.

Butch’s entry question was:

Hi Joyce and Dr. Shae. I have oily face. What can I do to control its oiliness? I’ve tried all facial wash products in the market (Olay, L’Oreal, etc.) but none has proven to be really effective. Any recommendation? Thanks and looking forward to your reply.

Well, Butch, you’re going to get the answer to your question when you meet with Dr. Shae Raymundo who will help you choose the right skin treatment and regimen for your oily skin. As part of your prize, you will also receive a gift pack of Dermalosophy skin products for oily skin.

ABQ would also like to congratulate our 4 Runners-up for each winning a Facial and Diamond Peel session at Dermalosophy!

Cherry Benoza

Seyer Gacusan

Janette Jimenez

and Pucci Turrecha!!!

I’ll be contacting you all by email and sending you your virtual GC.

We raffled all the names of those who joined the contest. Congratulations to all our winners!

Singer Aia de Leon (left) and blog author Joyce Burton Titular

I know this is not quite my topic but I am a good friend of Aia de Leon and as far as I’m concerned, she’s an honorary beauty queen and one of the most amazing singers that I know. She was at my wedding and I hope to be at hers one day.

The song ‘Idlip‘ which she wrote was actually inspired by my son Wolf after she found him fast asleep on the sofa inside the DJ’s booth at NU107. At least that’s what she told me.

Come to think of it, this might not be so off-topic after all since all beauty queens and pageant contestants can learn a thing or two from Aia when it comes to facing rejection.

This article can also be seen on my hubby Ron’s project Radio Republic.

Music Fans have been abuzz on Facebook and Twitter all day, shocked with the news that Aia de Leon, the former lead singer of Imago failed to impress judges at the Filipino edition of The Voice. None of the judges – namely Apl De Ap, Sarah Geronimo, Leah Salonga and Bamboo Manalac – turned their chairs to signify a yes vote.

Aia de Leon sang “The Way You Make Me Feel,” a Michael Jackson song which is reportedly one of her personal favorites. But many felt that the song did not bring out the best in Aia’s voice. One disappointed fan of the singer said, “She should have chosen something more emotional with birit. Mas nakaka-impress kasi un.”

Heart of Gold… Aia de Leon at one of my charity events. We were decorating an orphanage in Pasig for Christmas

Another observer had this to say, “I think she over-performed the piece, the blind audition levels the playing field for unknown ordinary singers and a big risk and disadvantage to the already-popular singers.”

Meantime, her former band mates in Imago all expressed their dismay. Drummer Zach Lucero posted this on his Facebook: “Sayang.. I think it would be nice if Aia got in..I think she sang well, that Michael Jackson song is a fave of hers, she usually sings that in a slower tempo, oh well..I don’t think the show took anything away from her..if anything it just shows how hard it is to judge a singer based on 1 song.”

The singer herself seems to be unruffled by the setback with this posting on her Facebook Fanpage:

“There is a big difference between NON-VICTORY and DEFEAT. Non-victories are challenges you take but did not quite hit the obvious target. It is in these Non-victories that make me realize, respect and salute my unique set of gifts. It is these Non-victories that finally jolt me from the side streets I get lost in, perhaps stuck in, point the north of my own destiny. It is in these trenches that a new sense of bold will forges in my spirit. Allowing me a brand new pursuit armed with an uncensored passion. To truly enjoy and devour music. As it should first and foremost be.

Defeat on the other hand is when you hit the end game button, the power off, the pistol in your head.

When you say- you’re done. An overwhelmed me thanks you for your suppost and love for the time of my non victory. Ironically the sweetest non-victory I ever had. My love to you all.

Remember, even in candy crush: NO ONE STAYS IN ONE PLACE FOR LONG. Unless of course you uninstall the friggin’ Saga. Much much love and gratitude.”

What Aia de Leon will do next is anyone’s guess. But one thing is for sure, if we’re to go by the trending on social media, being rejected by The Voice has only made her more popular than ever. With the spotlight on Aia and public sympathy on her side, now could be a great time to release an album.

Aia de Leon is the second person from the right peeking out from behind Tabitha, the dark-haired girl. This was at my wedding…

Group shot with Cory Quirino and previous MWP winners…

Today (July 23, 2013) was supposed to be the final screening of Miss World Philippines 2013 but ABQ got some good news. According to MWP National Director Cory Quirino, Miss World Philippines is adding one more screening day: Monday, July 29, 2013 at Solaire. Several groups from the provinces are asking for an extension to give their girls time to travel to Manila.

ABQ had the honor of sitting on the screening panel and meeting 21 lovelies who hope to enter the official list of candidates of Miss World Philippines 2013. Here are photos from the event…

L-R #1 Roselle Marie Ferrer, #2 Mariel Guinto Olea, #3 Frances Claire Vintola, #4 Mary Lyssa Abayon, #5 Karla Patricia Alas

L-R #6 Ruth Danao, #7 Patricia Angela Apolinar, #8 Omarie Linn Osuna, #9 Melanie Barret, #10 KC Cajandig

L-R #11 Princesslyn Dignadice, #12 Megan Lynne Young, #13 Patricia Lae Ejercitado, #14 Ria Rabajante, #15 Jennyline Carla Malpaya

L-R #16 Jennifer Hammond, #17 Khadija Nasser, #18 Samantha Mae Bernardo, #19 Aikah Dindah, #20 Pia Kamil Ochengco, #21 Ma. Lily Teresa Salazar

Some of the judges who screened the ladies – L-R Gwendoline Ruais, Queenierich Rehman, Cory Quirino, ABQ and Jeffrey Mangali

Some of the contestants relaxing before the presentation…

ABQ was very excited to see some familiar faces at the screening of Miss World Philippines 2013. Most of them have competed in Bb. Pilipinas and one is a known celebrity in the country. Will their experience or fame give them an edge above the other ladies? Or will they suffer humiliating rejection when the final list of official contestants is released on Monday, July 29, 2013? Only God knows! Here are those familiar faces:

Megan Young is a famous celebrity actress in the Philippines who has graced the cover of many glossy magazines. She reportedly tried out for Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013 but was turned away because of a sexy photo spread.

Patricia Lae Ejercitado was a favorite for the crown in Bb. Pilipinas 2012. Although she didn’t win, this doll-like beauty entered the Top 12.

Click here to see the list of Bb. Pilipinas Top 12 in 2012.

Ria Rabajante was last seen as Contestant #1 in Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013. Although she was unplaced, she was a favorite of many pageant fans. Ria is best known for her slinky catwalk style.

Click here to see Ria Rabajante as Contestant #1 in Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013.

KC Cahandig is best remembered for entering Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013 in the middle of the pageant after she was chosen to replace disqualified candidate Theresa Fenger.

Click here to read my story on KC Cahandig replacing Theresa Fenger.

Clockwise from Top Left – Me with Ross Misa; April Love Jordan, Jenny Syquia who sat on the panel of judges and Gwendoline Ruais with one of the lovely ladies in the secretariat of MWP.

Had a really warm chat with Ross Misa who was Miss World Philippines 1st Princess in 2012. I didn’t realize just how friendly she was until she sat next to me and made me kwento while I was having a cup of coffee. She told me about her plans once her tour of duty with MWP expires – she’s either going to study Interior Design at the Philippine School of Interior Design (where I studied) or fly off to New York and try it out there.

I also got to have some one-on-one time with Jenny Syquia who shared her passion for animals with me. She is currently part of the movement to free Mali, the elephant at the Manila Zoo and transfer her to an elephant sanctuary in Thailand. Aside from that, she’s hoping to produce a reality TV show featuring her daughter Chloe Concepcion.

Before leaving the event, I got to tell Gwendoline Ruais, Miss World 2011 1st Princess, a little bit about my experience as an episode judge on her reality show Gusto Kong Maging Beauty Queen. Although she wasn’t present during my taping, she had heard that I made many of the girls cry! Have I turned into a terror? Find out when you watch my episode on Gusto Kong Maging Beauty Queen on Studio 23.

All in all, it was a wonderful afternoon meeting all the MWP hopefuls and hoping that I see all their beautiful faces on the Miss World Philippines 2013 stage!

Congratulations Philippines! Angel Barrameda is 1st Runner up in Miss Southeast Asian 2013 (right), the winner (middle) is from Bangkok, Thailand and the 2nd Runner up (right) is from Merauke, Indonesia

Congratulations to Team Philippines for a grand finish at the first Miss Southeast Asian beauty pageant which concluded last night (July 24, 2013) in Bangkok, Thailand. Our girl Clarize Angelica Barrameda from Caloocan won First Runner up!  The winner was the host country, Thailand while 2nd Runner-up was Indonesia.

Click here to read ABQ’s Bio on Clarize Angelica “Angel” Barrameda.

Aura Donna Garon, our second delegate to Miss Southeast Asian 2013 also fared well entering the Top 6.

ABQ’s Bio for Donna Garon is here.

Congratulations girls, job well done!!!

MORE GOOD NEWS! According to Mac Taug, National Director for the Philippine franchise of Miss Southeast Asian, next year’s Miss Southeast Asian is set to be hosted by the Philippines next year! Hoping we can wow all of the delegates to Miss Southeast Asian 2014 with our hospitality, friendliness and professionalism!!!

Visit the Miss Southeast Asian beauty pageant Facebook site by clicking HERE!

Krista Rose Bella is representing the Philippines in Miss Teenage 2013 in Panama!

Thanks to ABQ correspondent Ronald Villamor for discovering that we have another Filipina beauty competing in a  pageant abroad. Krista Rose Bella who stands 5’7″ (other reports say she is 5’6″) is currently in Panama with 23 other international teenage beauty queens fighting for the Miss Teenager 2013 title.

I checked out the FB page of Miss Teenager 2013 and noticed that Krista Rose Bella is not getting the usual number of comments that Pinay contestants get. Most likely because very few Pinoys know about her competing. From digging around online I discovered that she was sent to compete in Miss Teenager 2013 by Edgar Sulit. I think he is the same Edgar Sulit who is a pageant organizer and the Executive Director of the Canada-based International Professional Network, also known as IPEN. I’m surmising that she’s based in Canada and got sent from Canada so few of us in Manila know about it. But that’s just a guess on my part!

Krista Rose Bella’s Miss Teenage 2013 official card

You can start showing your support by voting for Krista online. The girl who gets the most Facebook likes will be fast-tracked into the Top 15. You can get to the official voting page by clicking HERE.

Some details found on her official Miss Teenager composite photo which you see above:

Krista Bella is a 16 year old consistent honor student from Grade 8-10. She wants to be a Pediatrician someday. Her hobbies include reading, shopping and working out and being outdoors.

Message to the Youth: In spite of all the struggles you’ve been through, obstacles you’ve come across and complications, you’ve experienced, never forget who you are and always be yourself. Do not forget your values. Never act like someone that you’re not!

She lists Manila as her hometown and is the second Asian girl to officialy join the pageant. The world finals of Miss Teenager 2013 take place on July 27, 2013 at the Hard Rock Hotel’s Convention Center in Panama.

Krista Rose Bella in the swimsuit photoshoot at Miss Teenage 2013

Miss Teenage 2013 contestants having fun!

Marilyn Monroe, CLONED!

Krista Rose Bella, ABQ wishes you the best in Miss Teenage 2013!

Dear ABQ Readers,

Please check out my article on Rappler where I list the girls to watch in tonight’s Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 Coronation.

Just click here to get there…

Meantime, Im thrilled to announce that I’ll be the live voice over of Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013! Will be writing more about that later 😃😃😃

Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 winners – L-R 2nd Runner-up #22 Kristian Aubrey Nolasco, Mutya Overseas #15 Asdis Karlsdottir, Mutya Asia Pacific #21 Koreen Medina, Mutya Tourism #6 Angeli Dione Gomez and 1st Runner-up #13 Maureen Montagne

Congratulations to Mama Renee Salud and Team Murya ng Pilipinas for a successful 45th Edition beauty pageant! The coronation night was held July 26, 2013 at the NBC Tent in Bonifacio Global City.

Here is the list of winners:

Mutya ng Pilipinas Asia Pacific 2013: # 21 Koreen Medina

Mutya ng Pilipinas Tourism International 2013: #6 Angeli Dione Gomez

1st Runner-up: #13 Maureen Ann Montagne

2nd Runner-up: #22 Kristian Aubrey Nolasco

Mutya Overseas: #15 Asdis Liza Karlsdottir

Top 10:

#31 Nazita Reyhanian
$15 Asdis Liza Karlsdottir
#14 Maureen Ann Montagne
#6 Angeli Dione Gomez
#20 Catherine Denise Trevino
#16 Joselle Mariano
#9 Zandra Flores
#29 Vina Openiano
#21 Koreen Medina
#22 Kristian Aubrey Nolasco

While I’m quite happy with our two winners - Koreen Medina who got the Mutya Asia Pacific 2013 title and Angeli Dione Gomez who won Mutya Tourism 2013, there were a few non-winning girls that that stood out for me in the Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 pageant. Here they are:

Zandra Flores (left), Vina Openiana (Top Right), Catherine Denise ‘Cat’ Trivino (Bottom Right)

Photos from Rappler and from Cat Trivino’s blog

Let me start with #9 Zandra Flores who made it up to Top 10 and was Press Favorite and Photogenic winner:

I had the pleasure of sitting on the board of judges during the 3-day Metro Manila screening when she showed up to apply. Out of all the girls whom we screened one Day 1, she stood out with the most polished smile and catwalk. And that’s exactly what I think her downfall was. She’s just too polished.

During the Q&A on coronation night, I felt she answered too fast and gave too many details. Her question was about what she would want to get involved in, aside from tourism, if she won. Zandra Flores enumerated five things – security, cleanliness, better transportation services, currency exchange and to promote her home province of Pangasinan (but isn’t that last point a tourism thing?). 

Anywhoo… I believe she would have scored better if she were more relaxed and focused on just one and not five things. If she had a more dynamic answer, I believe she could have won the Tourism crown or a Runner-up slot. With that said, I still want to see more of this fascinating girl in another pageant.  With training and practice, it would be easy to dial down her exuberance.

My next favorite was #29 Vina Openiano who was in the Top 10 and won Best in Simwsuit:

What an amazingly pretty Pinay beauty she is! Vina Openiano has a bright, pretty face and long sinewy body that spell: W-I-N-N-E-R!!! So what went wrong?

I think her waterloo is communicating her thoughts. During the Q&A she was asked about who among the current crop of women achievers would be the best role model for Filipinas, In a sweet and halting voice she said Bb. Pilipinas Universe Janine Tugonon for winning in Miss Universe. It was good answer but… in my humble opinion, it’s not nice to talk about Bb. Pilipinas when you’re on the Mutya ng Pilipinas stage.

But even if the judges were to turn a blind eye to that, she still lacks confidence when answering. If Vina Openiano wants to continue her pageant journey I recommend speech classes and special training in answering questions.

One other contestant I liked was #20 Catherine Denise ‘Cat’ Trivino who entered the Top 10.

Kat Trivino was one of the prettiest faces in Day 1 of the Metro Manila screening. I warmed up to her fast when I found out that she was an online editor for a magazine. A smart girl, I thought. And Kat proved to be a good communicator although I think I made her really nervous at one point when I threw a tough question at her.

During the Q&A on pageant night, the question she got was about laws for the protection of women. Did we need more of them? She said yes we did. Then she went on to talk about the RH Bill and how, in her opinion, it was important for women. Her answer was good. What I think lessened her chances of winning wasn’t the Q&A but her newness. Kat has never really modeled before, much less joined a pageant. If she could just put her nose to the grindstone and train harder for the catwalk, I think she would make a great ramp model and maybe even a tough pageant competitor. Would love to see her try again.