Left – Venezuela, Right – Philippines, top right – India, bottom right – Korea

My Top 5 prediction is: Venezuela for the win with the Philippines, India and Korea as the Elemental winners.

With the coronation of the new Miss Earth 2013 just hours away, let me try to sneak in my list of favorite beauties for the environmentally friendly pageant title. I’ll tackle them in groups starting with the Latina/Hispanic contingent which I believe is the strongest in this year’s competition.

THE LATINAS AND HISPANICS

Venezuela – left, Mexico – top right and Bolivia bottom right

1) My favorite Latina beauties start off with my favorite contestant and top choice for the crown – Alyz Henrich of Venezuela. When she came out on stage during the press con of Miss Earth 2013 she was like a butterfly that you just had to catch but couldn’t. The smile, the walk, the flirtatious moves – so perfect for the Miss Earth 2013 crown!

2) My next favorite in this group would be Yuselmi Cristal Silva of Mexico. Her unearthly beauty is so seductive and also crown-worthy.

3) Rounding up my list is Bolivia’s Maria Rene Carmona who I simply adore for her statuesque beauty and towering height. Her stage presence is undoubtedly superhuman.

Second-tier choices among this group are: Spain, Chile, Costa Rica and Ecuador. Panama as well. Although I doubt any of them would win the crown, they do have a strong chance of entering the semi-finals. But I wouldn’t mind seeing any of them place higher, of course.

THE ASIANS

Philippines – left, India – middle, Korea – top right and Thailand – bottom right

1) My best bet from Asia is our very own Angelee Claudett delos Reyes (Philippines). The Olongapo native is primed for the most important pageant of her life and she’s joined more pageants than fingers I have on both hands! Is she worthy of the crown? Definitely yes! But she’ll have to find a way to surpass strong representatives from Venezuela, India, Ukraine and Thailand, just to mention a few. At the very least she is deserving of a runner-up (elemental) title considering her strong performance and number of medals. Although she has the most medals as of now (Angelee has 5), she has no gold medals yet. Could that be sign that our girl won’t win the top prize on coronation night? We’ll see what happens tonight!

2) Yes, technically India is a part of Asia so she’s tucked into this portion of my list. And wow, what a hottie Sobhita Djuliapala of India is! While I find other girls prettier that her, she’s got this oozing sex appeal that make her far more attractive than the prettiest face in town. Sometimes it’s just about the attitude. Love this girl and wouldn’t mind seeing an Indian Miss Earth 2013 winner!

3) South Korea’s Catharina Choi can also be placed in my Latina list since she’s half-Brazilian! While she has gone unnoticed in the challenge events with only one silver medal for the “I Love My Planet School Campaign” I’m putting her high in my list. She’s a regal blend of two continents that is a diving sight to behold!

4) Indeed, Asia has many strong contestants and I’m including Thailand’s Punika Kuntornrat in my list of top favorites for the crown. Although she is not the type of beauty that I favor, she is ranked number 1 (as of publishing time) in the medal tally (but she is tied with Indonesia at first place). Punika is a press favorite too if we are to go by the number of interviews she gets when journalists are around.

ABQ’s second-tier Asian choices: Indonesia and Singapore.

THE EUROPEANS AND EURASIANS:

Center – Ukraine, top left – Czech Republic, bottom left – Bosnia Herzegovina, top right – Serbia, bottom right – Crimea, far bottom right – Austira

1) Serbia’s Andjelka Tomasevic is another flirty femme with a smile that can knock you out! She’s my favorite among the European beauties.

2) Blonde beauty Anastasia Sukh of Ukraine is also another European bombshell. There’s this porcelain-doll thing about her that makes me wonder if she’d break if you drop her. Her simple but graceful walk and smile also show that you don’t have to ‘push it’ to get the attention!

3) The only redhead in ME 2013 (I think she’s the only one) is from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Vera Krneta reminds me, sort of, of current Miss Earth winner Tereza Fajksova. Me likey!

4) This next girl on my list might fit better in the Asian group since she’s half Vietnamese and looks more like an Asian than someone from the Czech Republic. Monica Leova would be an excellent choice if Miss Earth is looking for a spokeswoman; she’s got TV experience as a presenter and is quite easy on the eyes. It is interesting to note that the Czech Republic, which holds the current Miss Earth title, sent an Asian-looking candidate this year. Perhaps they believe that someone who looks totally different from the current queen Tereza Fajksova and who might appeal to the Filipino taste could win them another crown which would make it a back-t0-back victory for the Czech Republic. Hmmm… I wonder?

5) Crimea is pronouced as – cry-ME-ya. At least that’s how Maria Makater of Crimea said it when she introduced herself at the presscon. She makes me think of beautiful mermaids with her miles of undulating hair…

6) Yes, most of my favorites come from the European bloc. Austria’s Katia Wagner has that classic peaches ‘n cream complexion that one can only dream of having.

Special Mentions: Poland and Russia. I’m not so sure if these two will make it into the Top 15 but there is just something about them that pique my interest. Maybe because Russia’s Olesya Boslovyak reminds me somewhat of my favorite silver screen beauty Jennifer Garner and Poland has that waif-like beauty that appeals to my senses. The one thing I didn’t like though about Poland is that when the ten girls in her batch stood in line for a group photo, she stood apart from the group, like a foot away, as if in her own world. Could it be a sign of selfish attention-hogging? Maybe I am wrong because Poland’s Aleksandra Szczesna is too gorgeous to be a baaad girl…

Second-tier favorites from this group: France, Germany, Sweden and Turkey.

THE BLACK BEAUTIES

South Africa – left and Martinique – right

1) Although the black beauties come from different regions/continents, I’ve decided to put them in a separate category of their since they are singularly beautiful! My top choice among the coffee queens is South Africa’s Ashanti Mbanga. Out of all the dark beauties she’s the top performer in the challenge events with 2 gold medals.

2) Martinique’s Rani Charles is one standout beauty with her Rihanna-cropped hair and inviting smile. I don’t think she’ll win but I hope to see her in the semi-finals.

My other favorite black babes: Ghana (who was my plane mate on her trip to Manila) and Tanzania for her mysterious sphinx-like demeanor

OTHER SPECIAL MENTIONS

I liked Australia when I first saw her but I’m not feeling the fierceness anymore. But she can still make it into the semis with her country’s strong sash-factor and her brainy-ness.

Canada‘s soft and radiant beauty might just propel her into the semi-finals however, she’s getting very little attention with her zero medal-haul.

I have mixed feelings about USA‘s contestant. She’s cute and pretty when she’s giving a full smile but is that enough to launch her into the elite circle of semifinalists?

L-R Korea’s Catharina Choi (Fire), Austria’s Katia Wagner (Air), Venezuela’s Alyz Henrich (Miss Earth 2013 winner) and Thailand’s Punika Kuntornrat (Water)

Miss Earth 2013 is Venezuela! My pick for the crown!!!
Miss Air is Austria,  Katia Wagner.
Miss Water is Thailand, Punika Kuntornrat.
Miss Fire is Korea, Catharina Choi.

Scroll down for Top 16
Congratulations to all the winners!

**************

The outdoor stage at Versailles Palace in Alabang. Beautiful perhaps for a wedding but a challenging venue for a beauty pageant and a nightmare for journalists and photographers. We could hardly see and get good shots of the contestants without pushing people out of our way. Hoping for a better venue or stage layout next year.

The Miss Earth 2013 beauty tilt opened beneath a drizzling dark night but the damp evening did not dampen the spirits of the audience or the contestants. The opening number featured the girls in their eco-friendly outfits. The self-intro video showcased each contest divided into four regions – Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas.
Loved the hosts Oli Pettigrew and his wife Linda Black who brought an international flavor to the pageant were tres professionnel.

The Miss Earth 2013 contestants waiting for the opening number to start!

After the opening number featuring the contestants in their eco-friendly outfits, Miss Earth Philippines Carla Henry then spent a moment talking about the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda. She quoted Nelson Mandela (RIP) and then thanked all the nations who came to our aid.

Miss Earth 2008 Karla Henry (in white) gives a short speech on Yolanda thanking all the nations as represented in the pageant for coming to the aid of the Philippines when it was at its darkest hour.

Next. A video on Miss Earth 2013 activities that showcased the pageant’s strength – earth friendly projects.
Although the garden of Versailles in Alabang is an uncomfortable outdoor venue for photographers and bloggers (much prefer an indoor place) it was a sight to behold with the Miss Earth contestants on stage surrounded by shimmering pools and exotic foliage.

The judges are introduced. Yey! Lorraine Shuck is on the board along with Sarah Meier and Iza Calzado, three beautiful women I admire.

Top 16 announced:

Some of the contestants as they were called forward as part of the Top 16 circle of Miss Earth 2013…

Austria (my pick)
Turkey (my like)
Korea (my pick)
Chile (me like)
Mexico (my pick)
France (my like)
China
Mauritius
Thailand (my pick)
Spain (my special mention)
Poland (my special mention)
USA (my special mention)
Philippines (my pick)
So. Africa (my pick)
Venezuela (my pick)
Serbia (my pick)

(Hm. Oli Pettigrew didn’t play up on the suspense and just announced the 16th contestant with no drama. I so much prefer it to have drama!)

Serbia’s Andjelka Tomasevic throws her face to the night sky as her name is the last to be called during the announcement of the Top 16. A pensive Russia meanwhile stares blankly.

The Top 16 contestants at Miss Earth 2013 wave to the audience…

Swimsuit competition now with the Top 16 in glittery aqua green bikinis by Ricky Abad.

The Swimsuit Competition of the Top 16 winners in Miss Earth 2013 begins…

Here are some of the Top 16 Miss Earth semifinalists parading in their Ricky Abad bikinis that are to die for! Top row L-R – Serbia, Spain, Turkey and South Africa. Bottom row L-R – USA, Chile, Philippines and Mauritius.

I have to say choreography is bad for photographers seated in the media section hoping to get publishable shots of the girls. By the time they come close to our area, their backs are turned to us. Rats! The hubby had to go force his way and push people around just to get a good spot for photos. Hoping that this doesn’t happen again in the next Miss Earth pageant. And thanks to my hubby Ron for being forceful even if his true nature is gentle.

At this point, I must mention that Ricky Abad outdid himself with these fashionable bikinis adorned with sheer shawls. Kudos to you, my friend!

King of Hearts David Pomerantz serenades the girls…

Now the girls are back on stage, the Top 16 as well as the rest of the contestants all in long gowns for a serenade by the crooning minstrel we love so much in the Philippines – David Pomerantz.

The Long Gown Competition

The Long Gown Competition of the Top 16 in Miss Earth 2013

Austria – White, simple gown with glittery accents. Backless with beads dangling at her back.
Turkey – Love the gown. Mermaid na aqua green with silver accents.
Chile – White lacy.
Korea – Yellow mustard with pleats. Can’t make up my mind if I like.
Mexico – Blue tinged sequiny qown. Like fish scales.
France – Crimson and lovely. But looks like a red version of Korea’s gown?
China – Sheer and sexy. Silvery blue with white train.
Maritius – Gold and gorgeous.
Thailand – Another red gown. With an elegant pleats, beads and long train.
USA – Silvery white serpentina.
Poland – Beige and very feminine. Lacy at the bottom.
Spain – Dark glittery gown.
Philippines – Long sleeved white number. Don’t like her all covered up :’(
So. Africa – Stunning in bright green. Fab!
Venezuela – Pearly beaded gown. She’s on the rocks. Gorgeous! Best gown for me!
Serbia – White and simple. Too simple I think. Its like a bad rip off of Venezuela’s gown, sorry to say.

I’ll be coming up with a more detailed post on my thoughts on the Top 16 gowns.

The Long Gown Competition of the Top 16 in Miss Earth 2013

Announcement of Top 8

(Combined scores of swimsuit and gown)
Austria
Korea
Mexico
Thailand
Poland
Philippines
Venezuela
Serbia
(They are all in my forecasted list of favorites while Poland is my special mention, yehey!!!! Click here to read my forecast written just hours before the pageant.)

The Top 8 at Miss Earth 2013 – L-R – Austria, Mexico, Poland, Venezuela, Serbia, Philippines, Thailand and Korea

The Question and Answer segment

The girls have 30 secs to respond.
(I won’t write down the full QnA but only what my fingers can handle.)

Austria – Iza Calzado asked the Q on best invention ever. A – there are many but Solar energy is best. (Shakey voice but good answer.)

Korea – Q by Sarah Meier – There’s all kinds of discrimination but which is the worst kind for you? A – Any kind of discrimination is bad. (To the point. Good answer.)

Mexico – Q – Whats the biggest risk you ever took in your life? A with help of translator – Joining this pageant! Its for a cause and a way to teach public about environment. (Nice answer, swak!)

Thailand – Q – Aside from climate change what is the biggest threat to mother earth? (Thailand opened in English apologizing for her poor English then used a translator.) A – Human behavior. It affects whole world. (She went overtime and I wonder if they get minus points for doing that. Anyway, it was a good answer.)

The first four Miss Earth contestants during the Q and A segment…

Poland – Q – Why does God allow natural disaster? A – Because God wants to show people how to … Love together, (she struggled through her answer because, as the hosts mentioned, she didn’t speak English well. Nevertheless she attempted to answer in English and while I could understand what she wanted to say, she couldn’t explain it. I kept saying they should give her more time given her handicap.)

Philippines – Q from Lorraine Schuck – Its been a month since Yolanda. How do u think mother earth feels now? A – Sad, I wrote a song about it. It’s a wake up call. We must care for each other and the environment. (Best answer overall for me! Delivered with confidence and conviction.)

Venezuela – Q – How does eco-tourism contribute to the protection of thr environment? Translator – Because we people are responsible for the destruction of nature. We need to be aware of mother earth, save the earth. (Hmmm… Didn’t really answer the Q. Disappointed.)

Serbia – What ways can a woman be defined as an earth warrior?  A – Beauty is not just physical its what we have inside. We need to care for each other. Share happiness. Beauty should be inside and out. (She went overtime. Shakey voice. But hats off for attempting to answer in English even if she isn’t fluent.)

The next four Miss Earth 2013 contestants during the Q and A…

Next. Miss Earth 2012′s Yereza Fajksova’s farewell walk. Then another serenade by David Pomerantz of the Top 8. Then the announcement of the winners!

Miss Earth 2012 Tereza Fajksova says her goodbyes to all her supporters… although she is no longer the reigning queen of the Earth, she remains queen in hearts forever…

The ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE WINNERS!

Miss Earth 2013 is Venezuela! My pick for the crown!!!
Miss Air is Austria,  Katia Wagner.
Miss Water is Thailand, Punika Kuntornrat.
Miss Fire is Korea, Catharina Choi.

Because many were rooting for Angelee Claudett delos Reyes of the Philippines, it seemed like a letdown when Venezuela was announced the winner. The journalists in my section felt that the Philippines’ answer was the best one out of all 8 and I totally agree. I’ll be writing more about this in another post however, I just want to make it clear that Venezuela was my choice for the crown but not seeing the Philippines as one of the runners-up made me feel sad even if my favorite girl won the crown. In my heart I rejoice for the beauty of Alyz Henrich our new Miss Earth 2013 queen!

The memeber of the press rush up to the winners as soon as they form their winners’ tableau. L-R Korea’s Catharina Choi (Fire), Austria’s Katia Wagner (Air), Venezuela’s Alyz Henrich (Miss Earth 2013 winner) and Thailand’s Punika Kuntornrat (Water)

Congratulations to Carousel Productions and to Team Miss Earth for another successful edition of the Miss Earth beauty pageant!!!

Here are more photos of the post-pageant celebration:

Post-pageant celebration! Miss Earth 2013… Top left photo is me with Venezuela, top middle with Katia Wagner of Austria (Air), top right with Miss Earth 2102 Tereza Fajskova, bottom left with Zeny Seifert, Crimea and Ukraine (two of my favorites that didn’t enter the Top 15, middle bottom I’m with Miss Earth Philippines 2009 Sandra Seifert who hardly needs makeup to look glamorous, middle right I’m with Korea and bottom right with Thailand. GORGEOUS WINNERS!

I am not sure if members of the audience or TV viewers caught that precious moment when Miss Philippines Earth Angelee Claudett delos Reyes approached newly crowned Miss Earth winner Alyz Henrich to congratulate her. There was so much hullaballoo going on after Alyz was crowned that no one really seemed to notice.

But I was witness to it and it broke my heart so badly because I knew just how much Angelee wanted that crown. But even in the middle of her broken dream she had the grace to concede defeat and embrace that rival that caused it.

There’s Anglee Claudett delos Reyes (red circle) approaching Alyz Henrich of Venezuela (yellow arrow).

Two days after the pageant I asked Angelee Claudett delos Reyes what she said to Miss Venezuela and this is what she texted me:

I approached her and said “Felicidasciones!” (hope I spelled it right). I learned that’s how they say congratulations in Spanish (from Ms.Colombia). I respect Miss Earth Foundation and all the people behind Miss Earth Pageant so I believe that the result they announced really had a justifiable basis and that Ms.Venezuela is deserving enough together with the three other queens. We are all women of the earth and as I told them when I welcomed all the candidates, WE MAYBE IN A COMPETITION BUT WE HAVE ONE COMMON RESPONSIBILITY WHICH IS TO USE OUR BEAUTY TO EFFECT CHANGE AND MOVE PEOPLE TO PROTECT AND PRESERVE OUR ENVIRONMENT. That hasn’t change whether we get a crown or not.

After hugging the winner Miss Venezuela, Angelee Claudett delos Reyes congratulated all the elemental winners. She’s in white with her hands spread out…

In spite of that kind message from Angelee, I still can’t get over my disappointment that she did not even make it as an elemental winner (runner-up).  Specially since she had the STRONGEST and BEST answer in the Q&A portion among the Top 8 contestants!

The question was about what she thought mother earth felt in light of the recent devastation caused by Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).  In a nutshell, Angelee said that mother earth was most likely sad. She mentioned that she even wrote a song about it. Angelee ended by stressing how important it is to care for people AND the environment.

Angelee Claudett delos Reyes right after her Q&A.

For me, she had the best answer overall because it was to the point and delivered with confidence and conviction. Based on the strength of her answer, I thought she had an elemental crown in the bag. Absolutely sure she had it! But when all the winners were announced I was left stunned that the Philippines was left behind.

Could it have been a political decision not to let her into the Top 4 since the Philippines has been getting a lot of flak for consistently placing high in Miss Earth because it is a pageant owned and founded by Filipinos? Or maybe the ME leadership did not want people saying she won because of the sympathy vote due to Yolanda?

Or could it be because she got low scores for her gown?

I do not know how the last round was scored or if politics was involved but the only problem I saw with Miss Philippines on coronation night was her long-sleeved gown with swags. It just did not flatter her to be so covered up. The gown was nice but not for this pageant. She should have been in a sexier number where we could see her arms, shoulders, curves and maybe some leg. Besides, she was wearing a very similar gown when she won Miss Philippines Earth earlier this year, look below.

Angelee’s gown at Miss Philippines Earth 2013. Looks very similar to what she wore in Miss Earth 2013.

But EVEN if the gown was not the most flattering I still believe Angelee Claudett delos Reyes deserved an elemental crown. Venezuela was actually my choice to win and I was happy that she won but Angelee going home without a crown dampened my joy that night so I left Versailles Palace with mixed feelings, happy for Venezuela but heart-broken for Angelee.

But at least I have that moment captured on camera and in my heart when the Philippines went forward to congratulate Venezuela. Angelee truly showed that she deserved a crown that night for her sportsmanship, statesmanship and humility.

God bless you Angelee, I will always admire you for your beauty and strength in the midst of brokenness. Thank you for fighting the good fight!

Do you recognize the gorgeous Parul Shah She was my favorite girl at the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Gold edition! I’m praying she joins again next year!

My mother always told me that jewelry is one of the best investments a girl could make. To prove her point, she kept a simple yet lovely collection of jewelry that she would always wear on special occasions. During bad times she would sell her least favorite pieces and during times of extra she’d be at the jeweler searching for something that will make her sparkle at the next family get-together.

If you’re anything like my mom, then you’ll surely love Metro Jewelry’s first ever “Jewels of Hope” sale this Christmas! From December 9 to 29, 2013 they’re offering up to 50% discount on diamonds, South Sea pearls, colored stones and gold jewelry with an additional 5% off if you avail of the easy installment plan of up to 12 months.

ABQ author at the Jewels of Hope launch by Metro Jewelry in Market! Market!

Aside from making big savings, you’ll be making a good investment AND investing in the rebuilding of Tacloban and other areas severely hit by Typhoon Yolanda. Part of the proceeds of the sale will be donated to the cause through the Viscal Foundation. Isn’t that cool?

So this Christmas, instead of buying gifts that lose value over time, drop by Metro Jewelry at Metro Department Store in Market! Market! and see if something there suits your fancy. With the huge discounts you’ll surely something that fits your budget!

Here are more photos taken during the launch of “Jewels of Hope” at Metro Jewelry:

These colorful precious stones would make a perfect Chrismas gift. I particularly like rubies, opals and topaz stones.

Does this beauty wearing a lovely set from Metro Jewelry look familiar? It’s Hannah Ruth Sison who competed in Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013!

In the middle is Maggie Wilson, former Bb. Pilipinas World winner with the gorgeous models of Metro Jewelry

These elegant black pearls are also on sale at Jewels of Hope…

Another gorgeous beauty queen! Mutya ng Pilipinas Tourism Angeli Dione Gomez is decked out in South Sea pearls by Metro Jewelry! She’s leaving soon to compete in the Miss Tourism International 2013 in Malaysia! (I have to say that I love not just the stately pearls but the elegant gown as well…)

All these lovely models are wearing jewelry from Metro Jewelry in Metro Market! Market! The Jewels of Hope sale is from Dec 9 – 29, 2013! Be there!

Koreen Medina, Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013

Coronation night for this year’s Miss Intercontinental is fast approaching – Dec. 14, 2013 is the night we’ll find out if Koreen Median will be the first ever Filipina (and South East Asian for that matter) to win the title!

How is she doing so far?

Well… from the photos I’ve seen, it looks like she’s shining above the others with her new styling and ‘older-look’ make-up. Koreen Medina’s weakness, from the very start, is her youth and  ‘cuteness’ which don’t count for much in a pageant that favors women who sizzle and roar. “I am the youngest contestant,” she says, “but I know a lot of things and I have this conviction and fighting spirit. I can do more and improve more!”

And improve she did with her new look: penetrating smokey eyes and luscious curls that tumble down her shoulders. Perhaps a more intriguing smile would perfect the package?

It’ll be easy to spot Miss Philippines Koreen Medina in each photo with her excellent make-up and styling! She stands out among the contestants here…

Koreen Medina is the right-most beauty in a gold bikini…

As for her physique, I love her curves but for pageant purposes she could trim down a bit. At least that’s what it seems to me looking at the photo above.

But one thing really annoys me: Koreen Medina’s official headshot on the Miss Intercontinental website looks more like a graduation photo than a beauty pageant head shot. Fifty lashes to Mutya ng Pilipinas for sending such a teeny-bopper photo of Koreen when we all know that she has to look a little older than her actual age of 18.

So young that the German Embassy didn’t give her a visa until she proved to them that she would be traveling with family.

As for her communication skills,Koreen is the first to admit that she needs to work on her Q&A. She says, “I have the right thought in my mind but I’m scared to answer. Maybe it’s stage fright!” But after training hard under several mentors, this blogger is confident that Koreen will do fine in any Q&A session. Although she does ramble on and grasp for words a lot (I attribute it to her youth), she makes sense, her accent is lovely and she smiles so sweetly when speaking. And the pageant is being held in Germany so I’m assuming they won’t be too nit-picky with English skills.

The one thing that the Cebuana is comfortable talking about is the nation’s plan to rebuild of Tacloban and other areas hit by Typhoon Yolanda. She says, “The Philippines has gotten a lot of this kind of destruction and major storms. I will tell them that because of that the Philippines is one of the strongest nations in the world!”

I have high hopes that Koreen will become one of the strongest contestants in the Miss Intercontinental 2013 beauty pageant and become the first Filipina to win the title! Best wishes to Koreen Medina and the Mutya ng Pilipinas organization!

Koreen Medina with ABQ author Joyce Burton Titular at Koreen’s sendoff in Midas Hotel

Photo above from this website.

When I first heard about Melanie Marquez in an accident, it was thru Norman’s Blog. After a quick visit to the Facebook of Melanie’s daughter Maxine Bumgardner I found out that although it was a serious accident, the former Miss International winner was on her way to recovery. What a relief!

Anyway, daughter Maxine has published on her Facebook the details of the near-fatal accident and how her mom managed to survive. Its a riveting story that shows just how tough our beautiful Melanie Marquez is, giving new meaning to her other title – Supermodel!

Thank you so much Lord that she is fine! Here is the story from Maxine:

For all of those looking for an update on my mom and the full story, here it is. But first of all I would like to thank everyone of you for praying and supporting my mom, Arline, nanay, and our families. It made all the difference in their recovery.
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Photo collage above from Maxine Bumgardner’s Facebook.

My mom (Melanie Marquez) was in a car accident on December 7 at 5:30 pm. She slid on black ice which is also known as invisible ice. Her truck fell into a cement canal about twice her height with no way out. However because of her willpower and strength she was able to climb her way out of the cement canal. She had to walk a long ways away from the accident before she found a way out. You cannot see the canal from the road. Yes the 4 people in the accident were alone and nobody knew that there was even an accident. It was dark and cold in there.

I was on the phone with her during that time interchanging calls between her and 911. Me and my Step-dad (Randy) was able to find her location and call it into dispatch because my mom couldn’t locate where she was.
They finally found her at 6:30 pm and got her and her companions (Arline, Nanay Terecita, and Adam) to the hospital 2 hours later.

My mom has two fractures on her spine in the T2 and L1 region, she also has a fractured sternum and swelling all over her body.

Arline (one of moms best-friend) has 3 broken ribs and a fractured sternum while her mom Nanay Terecita (Arlines mom) has a fractured back, sternum and a couple broken ribs.

Adam on the other hand only got a couple bruises and cuts and walked out the hospital fine, he is currently staying with me.

It so lucky that all of them are alive because things could’ve gone so much worst for them.

As of now, December 12, They are doing fine. Mom and Nanay should be getting discharged either today and tomorrow. The injuries are serious but its better if they recover at home. Also, It depends if the back brace they are getting will help their fractured spine. Arline is recovering good, thank goodness.
They are all doing so much better than a week ago. However they will all need assistance when they get discharged. It will be hard for them to move around. Rusty (and his family) and I will be taking care of my mom and my sister will be coming to the states in a couple of weeks to help and Terry (husband of Arline) with his family will be taking care of Arline and Nanay Terecita.
As of now there are 3 visitors at the hospital. ML (Mom’s oldest son), Terry (Arline’s husband) and Mr. Spencer (Terry’s Father). Adam and I will be coming up later in the day after I take my finals. We should be getting more news about moms condition when I get there.

It made a differences that you all prayed and supported her during this time. Thank you very much!!!!

-Maxine
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Ariella Arida, Miss Universe 2013 2nd Runner-up, in a Cumbia gown at Runway for Hope 2013… What a lovely vision in lavender!

Congratulations to John dela Vega and his team for organizing another successful Runway for Hope fashion show which was held on the night of Dec 8, 2013 at the Ace Hotel (which is the hotel of my favorite Ace Water Spa in Kapitolyo). This year’s show was dedicated to Typhoon Yolanda survivors and proceeds go to relief and rebuilding operation in Tacloban and other affected areas in the Visayas.

Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner-up Ariella Arida, Miss Supranational 2013 Mutya Datul and Bb. Pilipinas 2013 1st Runner-up Pia Wurtzbach were the highlight of the night. They were wearing Cumbia gowns and as most of you pageant fans know, Cumbia is the fashion brand of Mme Stella Marquez Araneta who also owns the Bb. Pilipinas Charity Inc.

Left – Mutya Datul, Miss Supranational 2013, Middle – Ariella Arida, Right – Pia Wurtzbach, Bb Pilipinas 2013 1st Runner-up… all wearing Cumbia gowns courtesy of Bb. Pilipinas Charity Inc. and Mme Stella Marquez Araneta

Ariella Arida. Iconic Filipina beauty.

When Ariella Arida came out on stage, all I could think was – ‘What an iconic beauty!’ She truly has become iconic to our nation. After she returned from Miss Universe 2013, I noticed this stillness about her; like as if she had achieved a new level of confidence that no one can touch.

Pia Wurtzbach. Prettier than ever.

As for Pia Wurtzbach, she was a glowing ember in the dark. She was more beautiful than the last time I saw her. It is not a secret that she is gunning for the Bb. Pilipinas Universe title next year and I’m sure that is a deep worry for many girls aspiring to replace for the same position.

Mutya Datul and her hallmark booty pose.

Mutya Datul, our fabulous Miss Supranational 2013 winner meantime was a breath of fresh air with her glorious smile and hallmark booty pose. I like the way she sticks out her rear; no one can do it quite like Mutya can. Bravo!

Below are more photos of the beauty queens who participated in Runway for Hope 2013. I love it that they are all from different beauty queen camps. Sometimes the intrigues between camps gets tiring but when they shunt their differences aside to do something for a cause it truly makes an impact.

Anywhoo… enjoy the photos and PLEASE HELP ME IDENTIFY SOME OF THE BEAUTY QUEENS and TITLE HOLDERS – I didn’t quite get all their names and/or titles when they were announced. The photos are numbered so mention that and the missing information in my comments section thank much guys!

DESIGN BY: Jo Rubio

1) Desginer: JO RUBIO. Left – a Bicolana beauty queen, Middle – Emmerie Cunanan (Miss Philippines Water 2010), Right – Brazilian model Daiana Menezes.

My favorite gown above is the red one that Emmerie Dale Cunanan is wearing. Emmerie is one of my favorite models for her mystique and ability to sizzle on stage.

*****

DESIGN BY: Joel Acebuche

2) Designer JOEL ACEBUCHE – Left to Right – Nina Ricci Alagao (Bb. Pilipinas Universe 2000), a Miss Philippines USA winner, a beauty whose last name is Santiago and my favorite ever Janicel Lubina (Miss Bikini Philippines 2013 and Miss World Philippines 1st Princess 2013)

When Janicel Lubina (in bottom right-most photo) stepped out on stage in a lovely prom dress I got really excited; in fact I got excited with every single outfit above.! I loved the ribbons and the colors and the prom feeling each outfit conveyed. One of my favorite sets of the evening…

*****

DESIGN BY: Chico Estiva

3) Designer: CHICO ESTIVA. Top Left – Reynalyn Yamanouchi (Mutya ng Pilipinas Japan 2012), Bottom Left – Miss Caloocan. Big Photos – Left – Glennifer Perido (Miss Phils Air 2012), Middle – Miss Mindoro, Right – Ali Forbes (3rd RU Miss Grand International 2013)

Best gown for me in this lot by Chico Estiva is the red sheer one with sequined underwear. The model, who is a Miss Mindoro winner had the perfect body for it. Excellent pattern and contrasts on Glennifer Perido’s stark black and white gown. Ali Forbes is always a joy to see as she walked down the ramp in a black gown with white and blue accents.

*****

DESIGN BY: James Reyes

4) Designer JAMES REYES – Left – Reyna Mae Maerina (Supermodel of the Philippines), Right – a Miss Baguio

James Reyes ushered in high fashion with his two satiny outfits. For me, the billowing look is better appreciated on stage or on in Paris. You need to have drama and physical intelligence to carry such fashionable outfits… bravo James!

*****

DESIGN BY: Sonny Boy Mindo

5) Designer SONNY BOY MINDO – Five La Bulaquena beauties modeled his creations. Can you guys help me identify them?

Sonny Boy Mindo employed 5 charming La Bulaquena beauties to wear his beige and black numbers. The big photo in the middle is my favorite design; just love the vector-like patterns! It’s something I could imagine myself wearing when I attend the next Bb. Pilipinas coronation. I’d like to wear the sexy ones but I might steal the limelight from the contestants if I did, aahahaha!

*****

DESIGN BY: Shanon Pamaong, Fashion Institute of the Philippines

6) Designer SHANON PAMAONG, Fashion Institute of the Philippines. Left – Isabel Manawis (World Supermodel)? Right – a Miss Philippines USA winner

Stately gowns coming from Shanon Pamaong of the Fashion Institute of the Philippines. Beige and bronze. My pick would be the gown on the left with the angular lines and pleated vee neck strap. Isabel wore it well too!

*****

DESIGN BY: Mikee Andrei

7) Designer MIKEE ANDREI, Fashion Institute of the Philippines – Left – a Bb. Pilipinas finalist, Right – a Miss Philippines Earth Eco-Tourism winner

I’m loving the not-so-sheer black gown on the right. Sexy but not blatantly so. As for the gown on the right, I wore a mirror version of it on the reality show – Gusto Kong Maging Beauty Queen – the lone sleeve was on the other arm. I really felt comfortable and yet  looked so elegant in it! I was a  little heavy at the time so I was thankful that there was a fabulous gown that I could wear confidently.

*****

DESIGN BY: Oz Go, Fashion Institute of the Philippines

8) Designer OZ GO, Fashion Institute of the Philippines – Left – Elizabeth Alindogan (Miss Tourism World Visayas), Right – Jamie Reyes (Miss Chinatown Phils Runner-up)

If you look closely at these gowns, you’ll see that designer Oz Go used cartography as his theme. Love the compass design on the right but I like the sepia-toned map on the left a little bit more…

*****

DESIGN BY: Julius Ornum

9) Designer JULIUS ORNUM – Top Left – Krystal Alonday (MPE 2012 Candidate), Bottom Right – Raquel Cabigting (Miss Humanity), Middle – Miss Tourism World Visayas, Right – Samantha Purvor (Miss Philippines Water 2012)

The one that that I really like about the designs of Julius Ornum as seen above is that they are elegantly understated and VERY wearable. I also find myself having a difficult time choosing which one here I like best but if I were forced to pick one it would be either the blue one that the lovely Samantha Purvor is wearing or the red gown in the smaller photo – perfectly elegant for a formal event.

*****

DESIGN BY: Dave Ocampo

10) Designer DAVE OCAMPO – Left – Dianne Necio (Bb. Pilipinas International 2011), Middle – Monique Manuel (Miss Philippines Earth Semi-finalist 2009), Right – Czarina Gatbonton (Bb. Pilipinas World 2010)

Dave Ocamo goes dark with three black widows! Take your pick: one in a dress, one in a midi and one in a gown. The most mysterious one is Dianne Necio whose eyes you could barely see under her snakey headdress cum hat.

*****

DESIGN BY: Nicky Martinez

11) Designer NICKY MARTINEZ – Left – Lorraine de Guzman (Miss Casino Filipino 2012), Middle – Candice Ramos (Miss Philippines Earth Ecotourism 2012), Right – Stephany Malibiran (Mrs. Asia Tourism International 2013)

The metal rings wrapping around these outfits by Nicky Martinez got me so excited! Started dancing the Metallic Gigolo (joke!) Can’t pick a favorite one because I love them all and wish that they were all in my closet…

*****

DESIGN BY: Edwin Uy

12) Designer EDWIN UY – Left – Patricia Fernandez (Bb. Pilipinas International 2008), Middle – MJ Lastimosa (Bb. Pilipinas 2011 2nd Runner-up), Right – Toni Hipolito (Bb. Pilipinas 2008 Finalist)

The next time someone invites me to a Boudoir Party, I’ll remember to call designer Edwin Uy. I want the vampy red outfit in the middle worn by one of my sentimental pageant favorites, MJ Lastimosa.

*****

DESIGN BY: Jontie Martinez

13) Designer JONTIE MARTINEZ – Top Left – April Love Jordan (Winner 2009 International Beauty and Model Festival), Bottom Left – Chloe McCully (Miss World Philippines 2011 2nd Princess, Bottom Right – Ellore Punzalan (Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Finalist)

Out of the three shimmery gowns by Jontie Martinez, my favorite one is the white one worn by Ellore Punzalan. She carries it extremely well and has the body for such an alluring number.

*****

DESIGN BY: Renee Salud

14) Designer RENEE SALUD – Left – Jennifer Barrientos (Bb. Pilpinas Universe 2008), Top Right – Reina Mae Maerina (Supermodel of the World Philippines), Bottom Right – Aubrey Nolasco (Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 2nd Runner-up)

Mama Renee Salud knows how to put awe in in his fashion. The legendary designer had me gaping with these beautiful designs that betrayed his decades of expertise in high fashion. The one that had the grandest feel was worn by Reina Mae (top right) but the one I can see myself wearing is the dress with the flow-y skirt worn by Aubrey Nolasco (bottom right).

*****

ABQ author (left) with pageant memorabilia collector Pamboy (middle) and beauty-queen-turned-actress Maribel Lopez in the audience.

Koreen Medina, congratulations for your fabulous 3rd Runner up Finish in Miss Intercontinental 2013!

What an early Christmas gift! I woke up to a text from Farncis Calubaquib that Koreen Medina of the Philippines landed 3rd Runner-up in the Miss Intercontinental 2013 beauty pageant in Germany just minutes ago!!!!  Not only did she rank so high, she also won the “Queen of Asia and Oceania” minor title.

Koreen is one of two beauty queens currently competing abroad under the Mutya ng Pilipinas flagship (the other is Angeli Dione Gomez). And with her 3rd RU placement, I didn’t need my regular cup of coffee to wake up, the good news made me leap out of bed and grab my laptop to share the good news!

Arloc, one of ABQ’s readers says on his blog that the Philippines’ highest placement in the Panama-based contest has been 2nd runner-up, with 5 semi-finalists.

Although the Intercontinental crown remains elusive to the Philippines, Koreen Medina has taken us just a few steps away from it and if Mutya ng Pilipinas keeps it’s momentum going, next year, we could see a winner!

Koreen Medina is in the silver gown, 2nd to the left… She is indeed one of the stand-out beauties in Miss Intercontinental 2013! Note that she and the winner Miss Russia are wearing very similar gowns except Russia’s has only one long sleeve and shows more of her legs.

So far, this year it’s been a great title haul for the Philippines – Megan Young won Miss World and Mutya Datul won the Miss Supranational. Ariella Arida was 3rd Runner-up in Miss Universe while Ali Forbes also landed 3rd Runner up in Miss Grand International.

The next pageants to look forward to are:

Miss International 2013 in Japan on December 17 (just 3 days away as of this time) which Bea Rose Santiago is competing in.

And the Miss Tourism International 2013, a New Year’s beauty pageant in Malaysia which another Mutya ng Pilipinas winner is shining in – Angeli Dione Gomez. The Philippines currently holds the Miss Tourism International 2012 title with Rizzini Gomez wearing the crown. With our fantastic winning streak this year, we could very well see a back-to-back win for MTI!

And to the beautiful Koreen Medina, you are now My Intercontinental Girl!!!

Aside from wining Mutya Ng Pilipinas 2013 , Koreen Medina also won the Grand Champion in 2011 Coca-Cola Music Talent Search and is the Grand Winner of 2012 “My Girl” a pageant-like search of ABS-CBN2 a popular TV station in the Philippines.

Miss Russia’s crowning moment!

Miss Intercontinental 2013 Queens:

 Winner: Miss Russia

 1st runner-up: Puerto Rico.

2nd runner-up: Colombia.

3rd runner-up: Philippines.

4th runner-up: South Africa

Miss Intercontinental complete coverage on: http://www.missosology.info/forum/portal.php

Bea Beautiful!

OF VISIONS AND PROPHECIES…

There is one thing I always ask Bea, every time I see her at a Bb. Pilipinas event. It’s about a vision she had while competing during Bb. Pilipinas 2013, the Gold Edition. You see, I am fascinated by visions and prophecies and take careful heed of them. I don’t let them run my life but neither do I ignore them. But before I tell you about Bea’s vision, let me tell you about the first time I met her. It was at the World Trade Center on Roxas Blvd a couple years ago…

My first meeting with Bea Rose Santiago…

BICOLANA BACKPACKING BEAUTY!

This above is our first photo together. It was taken at the World Trade Center on Roxas Blvd during Bea’s send off by Mutya ng Pilipinas to the Miss Tourism Queen International of the Year 2012 in China. Trivia I learned about her then: Bea Santiago is a backpacking beauty from Bicol. Her family moved to Canada when she was 16. She went to York University in Toronto to study Communications and Public Relations. Here is the post I wrote about our first meeting… Click to read!

Bea Santiago’s official photo at Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International 2012!

PROVEN ON THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE!

At the Miss Tourism Queen International of the Year 2012 Bea Santiago stunned audiences but placed only in the Top 10. Not a surprise to this author since the pageant was held in China; given the political turmoil between China and the Philippines, a victory by our country would have been shocking. Anyhooo… with Bea’s experience in this pageant should give her an advantage as she vies now for the Miss International 2013 crown in the land of cherry-blossoms and manga..

Bea Rose Santiago. Statuesque and formidable on stage.

BEA’S #1 ASSET – STAGE PRESENCE!

The very first time I saw Bea Santiago walk on stage was during the Press Presentation of Bb. Pilipinas 2013 The Gold Edition. It wasn’t her near-perfect body that had me in awe; it was her stage presence. She glides like an anaconda on the Amazon river. I was stunned because when I had met her, she seemed so laid-back and unassuming. But here she was on stage, walking like a true queen, leaving stars behind her. Now I could really see why she did so well in China. She is a stand-out on stage!

Bea Santiago wears Jag

ORIGINALLY MEANT FOR UNIVERSE?

A few days before she won, I had Bea Santiago pegged for the Bb. Pilipinas International 2013 crown. I thought the battle for that title was between her and Mariel de Leon, the daughter of actors Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong. Bea ended up winning it, of course. There is a rumor though that she was being considered by the judges for the Universe Philippines title however, she had residency issues and did not qualify. I can’t say that’s the truth; it is just a rumor I heard from… well, I can’t tell you who so I’ll just keep you in the dark on this one!

Bea Santiago shines like the sun after Nicole Schmitz passes on the Bb. Pilipinas International crown to her…

VISIONS OF A CROWN…

I think the first time Bea intimated to me that she had visions was during the send-off of Mutya Datul to Miss Supranational 2013. Bea adds that her mom and sister had a dream that mirrored her visions. This is what Bea told me:

When I was just a contestant for Bb. Pilipinas, we would go to Baclaran every Wednesday. And every time I would pray and close my eyes, it would just show up, the crown. Next to me are girls…  by my side. So I’m in the middle and we’re formed like a letter vee. It was that vision that gave me more confidence the night of coronation.

Nope… Bea’s not in the middle of a vee… she’s 2nd to the right…

NOT IN THE MIDDLE… YET…

But I have to point out that in Bb. Pilipinas 2013, she was not in the middle of the vee… so perhaps, the vision was a foreseeing of what would happen in Miss International? Anyway, during the victory party of the the Bb. Pilipinas winners, I couldn’t help but notice the Japanese leadership of the Miss International franchise taking turns having photos with Bea. They seemed to be enthralled with her. I’m hoping that THAT’s also a sign pointing to the 5th Miss International crown for the Philippines!

Bea Santiago… Body BEAutiful!

TRAINING FOR MI…

Bea says her schedule overall was M-W-F in the gym with the other days working on speech, communication, make-up and styling. She admits that ‘beauty queen’ make-up is new to her. She adds that the look they’ve selected for her in Japan as she competes in Miss International is different from the look she had for Bb. Pilipinas. So she really had to practice and practice. So far, from what I’ve been seeing from the Bb. Pilipinas official Facebook, Bea is doing fabulously!

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The peg for Miss International is sweetness and youth, Bea says. She’s been watching all of the recent MI pageants to see what the winners have and so far what she see is this: 1) Don’t work too hard for it. 2) Be classy but be simple. 3) Be pretty but don’t overdo it.

Meantime, she’s ready with her speech when she enters the Top 15. Although she wasn’t specific, she says her speech is going to be about what’s happening in the Philippines. I have a feeling that it’ll be about how Filipinos are overcoming the recent tragedy of Typhoon Yolanda with the help of the nations of this world! How international is that?

Bea Santiago… shares her heart at her send-off party.

“I WILL NEVER LEAVE THE PHILIPPINES AGAIN…”

When she spoke to the press at her send-off, Bea said that if it weren’t for God, she wouldn’t be there. She’s spent half her life in a different country and while she admits that when she returned to the Philippines she got depressed and felt lost. But now that she has made friends, they feel like family.

Bea says it was Venus Raj’s 4th Runner-up success in Miss Universe 2010 that inspired her to come to Manila. No regrets, she says, adding that she’ll never ever leave again because the Philippines is now her new world.

I just love the way Bea Santiago expresses herself! This is her other asset aside from her powerful stage presence. She speaks well and answers wisely. And although she claims that she doesn’t really cry, she teared up one moment during the send-off as she was talking about how her batch of queens – Ariella Arida, Mutya Datul, Cindy Miranda and Pia Wurtzback – loved her anyway even if she was too ‘madaldal‘ or talkative.

Bea Santiago (2nd from right) with… L-R Cindy Miranda, Czarina Gatbonton, Mutya Datul and Ariella Arida on the far right….

BEA HONORS BATCH 2013…

At Bea Santiago’s send-off, I had the opportunity to ask her, out of all the pieces of advice she got from her co-beauty queens, which one does she think will be the most valuable in her quest for the Miss International crown. She said that she would take something from each one of her ‘sisters’.

From Pia, she learned the importance of always being on time. (Well, in Japan, being on time is a virtue!) Mutya, on the other hand, taught Bea to give herself fully and with love. From Cindy, she learned the value of professionalism and going for perfection. Ariella meantime taught her all about relaxing and staying calm in the midst of high-level competition.

Well… I hope you enjoyed my rambling story on Bea Santiago and my moments with her. I have high hopes that she will bring home a crown for Christmas – the fifth Miss International crown for the nation!!!  If she doesn’t win then at the very least, she deserves a Runner-up slot. Anything less will be a disappointment for this blogger.

Bea is the last queen in this year’s Bb. Pilipinas batch to compete and so far they’ve had quite a haul of medals – Mutya won the Supra, Ariella got 3rd RU in Miss U and Cindy Miranda, placed in the Semis in the Tourism pageant she competed in, in China. We started with a crown, lets end with another crown!!!!

Bea Rose Santiago… Bb. Pilipinas International 2013…

What an exhilarating finish for the Philippines! Congratulations to Bea Rose Santiago and Bb. Pilipinas as well as Kagandahang Flores, the team that trained her for winning the fifth Miss International title for our nation!!!

Another reason to celebrate: our main overall competitor Venezuela was edged out and did not enter the Top 15. This means the Philippines is the top billing nation in pageant competitiveness for the year 2013 with the Miss International, Miss World (Megan) and Miss Supranational (Mutya) Crowns, 3rd Runner-up finishes in Miss Universe (Ariella) and Miss Intercontinental (Koreen) and semi-finalist placements in Miss Earth (Angelee) and Miss Tourism International (Cindy).

I wasn’t able to watch the live stream due to work and stuff but I was sitting in a Starbucks Cafe nervously checking Norman’s Blog and Bb. Pilipinas’ Facebook for updates. Click here to read his Live Blog on Miss International 2013.

I knew that all Bea had to was enter the Top 15 and she’d eat everyone alive. The vision Bea had about the crown was truly from God!!! Thank you Lord for the early Christmas gift, all of pageant fans can now sleep like babies (or beauty queens) tonight!!!!!

ABQ spent a relaxing afternoon at Eastwood with Bb Pilipinas World 2006 Anna Igpit and co-blogger-slash-events-meister Raul Gatal. Both Anna and Raul are Boholenos working hard to rebuild their island-province after the devastating October 2013 earthquake.

Ana’s report: “Oplan Bangon Bohol has raised P2.6 million so far. That will go to the rebuilding of 2 totally-damaged parochial schools – one in Maribojoc and the other in Lo-on.”

Raul, who handles the PR for Oplan Bangon Bohol adds, “With the help of many people we are quickly rising up from the devastation. The efforts in relief and rebuilding are heroic. When visitors come to Bohol next summer they’ll see a vibrant province!”

Oplan Bangon Bohol has also partnered with Fil-Australian Architect Aya Maceda who will bring in funding from Columbia University NY where she is currently taking up her Master’s.

Famous furniture designer Kenneth Conbonpue has also signed up to help with requirements for desk, chairs, etc.

Above: ABQ author with Sherry Lynn Baas

Meantime, Anna Igpit was also able to tie up with the Miss Netherlands she competed against in Miss World 2006 – Sherry Lynn Baas who happens to be half-Pinay (with roots in Leyte) and a Mrs. Globe winner. Sherry Lynn was able to raise the equivalent of a million pesos in Netherlands. She arrives in Manila on Dec 27, 2013, will proceed to Bohol where she will distribute goods. Then both beauty queens will bring more goods to Leyte.

For those of you who would like to donate or be a part of the rebuilding of Bohol, visit their Facebook – Oplan Bangon Bohol and leave a message.

Looking forward to seeing a new Bohol, more beautiful than ever!

Looking for a meaningful gift for your best friend who’s just crazy about beauty queens?

Well your search ends here with
the recently-published book on Maita Gomez titled “Maita: Remembering Ka Dolor!

Maita is our Miss Philippines 1967 and candidate to the Miss World that year. The book, which is filled with photos of Maita, brings you deeper into the life of one of the Philippines’ most radical and politically active beauty queens.

Did you know that she left her life of lace and lipstick to join the underground movement? She lived in the mountains for awhile and was known as ‘Ka Dolor,’ a freedom fighter.

Btw, “Maita: Remembering Ka Dolor” is ONLY P280 (a steal if you ask me) but is worth far more if you look at the beautifully thick matte pages that tell Maita’s colorful life story. It deserves a spot on the coffee table (and hearts) of all Filipinos who love their beauty queens and their country.

“Maita: Remembering Ka Dolor” is extra special to this blog author because one of the articles in it is a reprint of a tribute I wrote after Maita’s unexpected passing. I took it upon myself to translate into English, a Tagalog article on Maita written by Dr. Judy M. Taguiwalo. Dr. Judy liked it (thank God!) She happens to be one of the editors of the book along with Elisa Tita P. Lubi. This is my FIRST time to ever be published in a book, what an honor!!

Now for those of you who want this book NOW, here is where you can get it. Copies are for sale at the ff:

- Popular Bookstore, T. Morato Extension near corner Timog Avenue.
- Mt. Cloud Bookstore in Baguio City (people there know where it is)
- Tanggol Bayi office, #1 Maaralin St. corner Matatag St., (near Philippine Heart Center and Sulu Hotel) (guard – 4345983)

The book features writings and poetry on Maita Gomez by Thelma Sison San Juan, Ricky Lo, Norma Japitana, Dr. Carol Araullo, Behn Cervantes, Ellen Tordesillas, Rina Jimenez-David, Dr. Judy Taguiwalo, Joi Barrios, Pia Montalban, Michael Beltran, Bonifacio Ilagan, Jomari Sison and even Maita herself.

One of the book’s editors says:

Happy reading during the holidays! The book will be recommended reading ,too, for other beauty queens because it gives a different and remarkable perspective in life. And shows how varied are the facets of the personalities of the beauty queens, with Maita and Nelia Sancho standing out as they courageously fought a repressive dictatorship and struggled for positive change in our society.

Dear readers:

OMG, I think this has been the longest silence from ABQ ever! I haven’t posted anything in weeks! I do hope you will forgive me for I was abroad with family and devoted all my time to loved ones. But I’m back with a few stories up my sleeve. The first one (for 2014) being the birthday party of our dearest Mama Renee Salud – the wo/man responsible for the careers of many a beauty queen.

Here are photos and stories of what transpired at the lovely affair…

Mama Renee Salud! Happy Birthday, we love you!!!

As expected, the birthday celebrant, Mama Renee Salud showed up fashionably late! He was in high spirits (as usual) and was all smiles. The past year has been an extremely good one for the beauty-queen maker and haute-couture designer. His two winners in Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 – Koreen Medina and Angeli Dione Gomez both performed well in their respective pageants with Koreen placing 4th in the Miss Intercontinental 2013 and Angeli Dione winning the crown in the Miss Tourism International 2013 spelling a back-to-back win for the Philippines which won the crown first in 2012 via Rizzini Gomez.

But his major coup in 2013 was the victory of Bea Santiago in the Miss International 2013 giving the Philippines it’s 5th crown in that franchise!

Love these two – Izza Gonzales (left) and Dang Cecilio

I arrived promptly at 7:30 and found two early birds who were ahead of me. My dear friend Izza Gonzales who won the Maja title during my year in Bb. Pilipinas (1985) and the effervescent Dang Cecilio who glowed like a debutante!

Izza, for your information, is a serious Yoga enthusiast. She has been attending Bikram Yoga classes for 8 years now and only takes Sundays off from class! This must be the reason why she still can wear classy shorts and show off her slim and shapely legs!

Dang meantime is hoping to organize all the “Queens of Renee Salud” for charity projects. She believes that once you’ve achieved success, then it’s time to share your bounty and serve others!

ABQ with the beautiful Marina Benipayo

Another early bird at the party was Marina Benipayo. I have known her for years and even worked with her in fashion shows during her early years as a beauty queen and model. But it was only at this party that I found out she and I had something in common – we were both pet lovers! She showed us photos of her gorgeous cat KittyKat (I think that’s her name if I remember correctly, haha!) and her Siberian Hamsters. I too adore hamsters and had a beautiful cream colored hammie named Mariel some five or six years ago.

Bday celebrant Mama Renee Salud with Gladys Duenas who looks prettier than ever!

Gladys Duenas arrived and brought along with her her gorgeous smile. There’s just something about this lady that is SO appealing! She is now based in Cebu, where her hubby is from, but keeps a place in Metro Manila for times when she is in town, like now!

A light moment at the party. There’s Sharon Hughes in pink!

There’s Sharon Hughes in pink! She was also an early bird at the party. But she did not look like she gained an ounce over the holidays; she was slim as ever! Just like the fitness-conscious Izza Gonzales, Sharon takes her health seriously and works out regularly at Gold’s gym.

ABQ with Peachie Sacasas Alimurong (middle) and Izza Gonzales Agana (right)!

Golly, Peachie Sacasas looks so fresh! Like a summer peach! We both go to the same church -Union Church of Manila (which is in Makati) but rarely get to talk after service since we’re always rushing off to do family things. But at Mama Renee’s party we had more time to chat about our kids and joys that come with parenting. However, unlike the empty-nester that I am, she’s still raising a couple teenagers! How I envy her and wish I could turn the hands of time back to when my children were still wee ones…

Love you Mama!

I can’t wait for Mama Renee and company to start the search for this year’s contestants in Mutya ng Pilipinas! He says screening is supposed to begin in June or July which is still months away. I had the chance to participate in last year’s screening and I hope to be part of it again this year. The big question though is this: Will Mutya ng Pilipinas be able to find winners who can match or at least come close to the achievements of last year’s queens Koreen Medina and Angeli Dione Gomez? Abangan!

Mama Renee Salud with Patty Betita

Patty Betita was as bubbly as a glass of champagne when she arrived at the party! She’s still busy as a speaker and consultant in corporate image.

The gorgeous Gionna Cabrera (middle) with the elegant Duday Mandanas (left) and Bday girl Renee Salud!

There’s Gionna Cabrera in the middle! And in typical Gionna fashion, she was generous with her compliments to me and all the other queens. The interesting thing about Gionna and me is that we are always bumping into each other. Last year I think I bumped into her three or four times in the Fort area. Anyway, did you know that Gionna is  serious foodie? She took some time out to ask me for a quick review of the party venue Brazil (I told her that the food was great but the ambiance felt tired) and asked the waiter to show her the bottle of wine that they were serving and after she saw it Gionna said it was a good table wine. Coooool…

The sultry Lou Bunyi flashes her signature smile!

Although I didn’t get to chat with the stylish Lou Bunyi, I was able to get this lovely smile from her on my phone camera.

Mama Renee’s party was held at ‘Brazil’ the buffet restaurant at Serendra, The Fort

I have known about Brazil for years now, ever since it opened in Serendra but it was only now that I got a chance to visit the restaurant. What can I say about the food? Loved it! One of my biggest problems when it comes to restaurants is if they have meals that I can eat since I eat carefully and avoid processed carbs and sugar. Well, Brazil had options for me – a chicken dish, tons of fresh lettuce from the salad bar, a seafood dish, chicken bbq and cuttlefish bbq. The queens loved the roasted bananas and pineapple but I had to keep away from the fruit since I only eat fruit until 2pm. The only thing I didn’t like about the place was that it felt tired. Perhaps they need a renovation to spice things up?

Tita Patty, Izza Gonzales, Dang Cecilio, Mama Renee Salud and Gladys Duenas

At one point during the party, Dang Cecilio suggested that all the queens of Renee get together and do charity projects every quarter or twice a year. I sincerely hope that we can get organized and mobilized to do this! Can’t wait for our first meeting!

We spent the whole night chatting, telling stories, eating and laughing our hearts out!

One of the topics that came up at the party was a coffee table book featuring the queens of Mama Renee Salud. If you look at the list of beauties that Renee has discovered – Chiqui Brosas, Melanie Marquez, Chat Silayan, Desiree Verdadero, Bong Dimayacyac… to name a few – then you’ll see that such a book might be worth considering. If the project did come to fruition do you think it would sell? I think so! But then again, I am biased, aahahaaha!

Why only one candle LOL!

I had to leave after the blowing of the candles on Mama Renee’s cake. This beauty queen needed her beauty sleep and was the first one to leave the party. Since I returned from the US, my sleeping pattern has shifted to waking up at 4 or 5 am. It’s actually a good thing that I hope to make a habit. My brain seems to work better in the mornings after a good night’s sleep.

Anyhoo… it was a lovely evening with all the queens of Renee Salud… good food, warm smiles, lots of stories and tons of laughter! Praying for another winning year for Mama Renee, may you always seek beauty and find it!

Happy Birthday Mama Renee Salud!!!

Vince Ferraren breaks into theater as Oedipus in Oedipus the King by Mel Magno. In this RD Dantes photo he is modeling for Bench.

Hello ABQ Readers!

As Bb. Pilipinas closes in on it’s final list of contestants for the 2014 pageant, I find myself busy as an actress.

Truly.

I am busy rehearsing as Queen Jocasta in the “Oedipus The King” by Mel Magno. My Oedipus is none other than the gorgeous Fil-Aussie model Vince Ferraren!

ABQ Author Joyce Burton Titular and Bench model Vince Ferraren during a rehearsal break. Don’t we look family?

Vince Ferraren is best known for his Bench ad campaigns and was a hottest male model feature in Cosmo and Mega magazines.  He is making his theater debut with the presentation of “Oedipus the King,” under Seventh Stage Productions. Its his first-ever stage play and a classical one at that!

You can follow Vince Ferraren’s Facebook here…  and his Twitter here.

Actually, Vince Ferraren has been doing the play for a few months now with a different actress taking on the role of Queen Jocasta. Due to unforeseen circumstances, she could no longer continue so Direk Mel Magno (the famous indie film director) asked if I would be interested in trying out for the role. I jumped at it and now I find myself a Queen once more! Aaahahaha!

You can watch my debut as Queen Jocasta on January 26, 2014 (Sunday) at SM Centerpoint, 10AM. The play is being presented to college and high school students as part of their English Lit requirements but it is also open to the public. Tickets are: P500 (VIP) and P350.

Will post photos from the play. Next showing is up in Baguio on February 6, 2014.  February 5, 2014, Wednesday. 2pm at the Baguio Convention Center. Hope to see you there!

Love,

Joyce

I survived.

Even if my character, Queen Jocasta hung herself, I survived!

My debut as Queen Jocasta in Mel Magno’s stage presentation of Oedipus the King (starring Vince Ferraren as Oedipus) was a brave first-time-attempt at classical theater on my part. And if I can pat my own back, I think I did a decent enough job not to get fired, LOL!

It was an extra-special show since students from my Alma Mater Benedictine Abbey (now known as San Beda Alabang) were in the house to watch. Some of them came up on stage after the curtain call to have photos taken with the cast – a shoutout to all you Bedans from Alabang! Other university students in attendance were CEU, Arellano and a couple others. They were there as part of their English Lit class.

Here are a few photos of what transpired during my opening day as Queen Jocasta:

Bench Model Vince Ferraren as King Oedipus

The story begins with King Oedipus desperate to find the murderer of Laius, the previous king. He needs to find the culprit to avert a curse on his city of Thebes.

Playing the role of Oedipus, Vince Ferraren proves that he’s far more than just a pretty face and body. The guy CAN ACT. He acts so well that in the early stages of our rehearsals, his fierceness would stun me into forgetting my lines.

The Chorus which takes on the role of Narrator

These young men keep the story going, helping the actors tell the story and warning the audience that King Oedipus and his wife Queen Jocasta are on a dangerous path to doom. They alternate between chanting and singing their lines. Classic.

Loving this shot of one of the chorus members.

The cuties that make up the Chorus have their own fair share of fangirls.  During the curtain call, giggling girls in the audience swarm around them (not just Vince Ferraren) for photos. Ah, to be young and free!

Tiresias, the blind prophet, is played by accomplished stage actor Francis Cruz

Tiresias the prophet brings bad news. He says it was Oedipus himself who killed Laius! Oedipus is suddenly reminded of a wealthy stranger he killed on the road years ago due to an altercation – could this man truly be Lauis? Or is this blind prophet lying as part of a plot to remove Oedipus from the throne?

Actor Francis Cruz plays Tiresias (he alternates with Direk Mel Magno). FYI, Francis also played Queen Jocasta before I stepped in. And I imagine that my arrival is to his relief. It is not easy for a man to don a gown and heels, sport a head full of curls and wear false lashes with a tiara on his head but Francis is an excellent actor who can do all that AND make you forget that he’s a dude.

Mehran Khaledi plays Creon (in green), the brother-in-law of Oedipus and brother of Queen Jocasta

Creon is the one who brought in Tiresias the blind prophet in an effort to help his brother-in-law, King Oedipus discover the murderer of the former King Lauis. But Creon ends up being accused by the King of devising a plot to unseat him. They fight, and shout and do more fighting and shouting. And then they fight and shout some more, hehehe…

Mehran, the Persian actor who plays Creon might not physically measure up to Vince Ferraren’s 6’4″ frame but he delivers on stage with his powerful voice and presence. He has nice legs too.

Queen Jocasta (played by Joyce Burton Titular) shows up and tries to reconcile Creon and the King

Queen Jocasta shows up in the midst of their fighting and tries to patch up Creon (her brother) and Oedipus (her hubby). But to no avail. The two dearest men in her life continue to fight and shout even more. As you can see below:

Queen Jocasta, as if to protect the hulking King Oedipus from her shorter brother Creon…

It is a joy and honor to be playing Queen Jocasta in this particular offering of Oedipus the King! And working with these two actors – Vince Ferraren (in blue) and Mehran Khaledi (green) is a thrill. And a pain in the neck as well, hahaha! I have to keep these two angry beasts away from in each other at the height of their quarrel!! I did not realize that I’d be getting quite a workout in this play…

Queen Jocasta tries to soothe the anger of her King

Queen Jocasta: In God’s name, explain to me my Lord… what was it that made you so angry?

King Oedipus: Creon and his conspiracy against me, that’s what made me angry!

Queen Jocasta can’t take her hands off her handsome young King who is years her junior, LOL!

To you Vince Ferraren fans who are curious about how he works, here is what I have to say. First of all, he’s very thoughtful of his co-actors; when I came in midstream, taking the place of another actress who had to back out, he went out of his way to attend extra rehearsals for my sake. On stage, he allows others to shine, never trying to steal the spotlight.

Second, he makes me feel very safe even during the scenes when we are physically close. I am leery of male actors who try to ‘take advantage’ of their feminine counterparts but Vince does not fall into that category. He might look like a sexy demi-god in his Bench billboards but when he’s backstage with the cast, he’s like a kid having fun!

Thirdly, though he throws me around on stage once or twice, he is quite the gentle giant about it. He is quite good at making it seem like he hurled me violently on the ground. Love it!

I get to do my own monologue! Joyce Burton Titular as Queen Jocasta…

Queen Jocasta to the King: There is no human being born endowed with prophetic power. I can prove it to you — and in a few words…

Queen Jocasta tries to comfort the King who, after some investigation, begins to believe that the blind prophet was right. She urges him to ignore prophecies because they don’t necessarily come true. Jocasta revealed that an old prophecy once said that she and her former husband King Laius were to have a child who would kill the king and marry her. But it never came true, she claimed, because King Lauis had the child killed right after his birth.

I see the shadow of King Oedipus shadow behind Jocasta, but where is he?

My dear hubby Ron T. was in the front row taking photos of my debut as Queen Jocasta and he started taking interesting shots based on the shadows. In this photo above, it is as if King Oedipus has turned into a ghost; or perhaps his shadow ran off to be with mine?

Vince Ferraren does one of his many monologues as I emote-emote in the background, LOL!

King Oedipus is not comforted by the assurances of Queen Jocasta and continues to seek proof that he is not the killer of Lauis. He also divulges to her an old strange prophecy saying he is fated to kill his own father and marry his mother. Jocasta is stunned because it is the same prophecy given to her son years ago. Except in Jocasta’s case, they killed the baby boy… or so she thought…

One of the hardest things to do as an actress (at least in this particular play) is to stand in the background and react to whatever your co-actor is saying and doing. Someone should come up with an acting workshop devoted to just emoting!

Oh yeah, we all do our fair share of rolling on the ground…

King Oedipus, tormented by the blind prophet’s words refuses to be consoled or comforted. He begs Jocasta to send for a shepherd who may have information on how Laius died and who his killer was. The Queen, who reluctantly gives in, seems to sense the tragedy that is about to come.

King Oedipus finally interrogates the shepherd.

The truth finally comes out in bits and pieces as the shepherd tells Oedipus his true identity.

The slave and the shepherd reveal the painful truth to King Oedipus

These are the two oldest members of the cast above and they are simply amazing. They truly look like slaves when on stage (off-stage they look like wise men) and have turned the act of cowering-against-the-wall into an art form. I have NEVER seen anyone cower and quake as professionally as these two men.

As King Oedipus learns the horrible truth about his legacy, Queen Jocasta’s world starts to crumble around her.

Queen Jocasta cannot come to terms with the horrific truth that Oedipus is her son with King Laius. That Oedipus is the son they thought they had killed at birth. As she staggers away in tears, she makes up her mind that a quick death is the only way out of their shameful situation.

Oedipus tears off his clothes as he realizes just how pitiable he is…

After Oedipus realizes that Jocasta  is his mother, he finally realizes another terrible truth – that he is the killer of Laius. The prophecy was true! But it is too late; he finds his dear Jocasta dead by her own hand. Unable to handle losing her and the painful truth of who he is, Oedipus gouges out his eyes, doomed to be as blind as Tiresias and exiled from the city of Thebes forever.

Oedipus gouges out his eyes!

What a sad story, sniff, sniff. But at least it ends with Vince Ferraren tearing off his clothes. This moment never fails to get the loudest cheers from a shocked audience. Good-shocked, I mean. The female members give the loudest screams, I must add! For a moment, a verrry long moment, everyone forgets that Jocasta just hung herself as they all moon over Vince’s abs. AAHAAAHAH!

If you think that sitting through a 2-hour classical tragedy is like penance, this scene makes it all worth it. Vince strips down to his barest minimum and rages all over the stage as he recites his final monologue. He is in his full bloom in his final minutes on stage.

Though the story of Oedipus is depressing, seeing this beautiful half-naked man pour out his soul on stage helps lessen the sting of this most unhappy ending. And I say that with the same respect I give to all the beauty contestants I scrutinize in my blog.

Now that I have your attention, come and watch the next showing of Oedipus the King by Mel Magno in BAGUIO! On February 5, 2014, Wednesday, 2pm at the Baguio Convention Center. See you there!!!

I’m really excited about the 2014 search for Miss Bikini Philippines. Their winner last year, Janicel Lubina, did extremely well career-wise – so I’m guessing that her growth as a pageant winner and fashion model will inspire many other beauties with bombshell bodies to join this pageant!

I wonder though if any of the girls who fail to make the cut at the Bb. Pilipinas 2014 search will hop over to join this one. That’ll be interesting indeed. I just love it when so-called ‘rejects’ or ‘clappers’ join other pageants and then win! One must not judge a woman by the pageant she joins. DIVA?

Anyway, the other exciting thing about the Slimmer’s World Miss Bikini 2014 is the prize money in store for the top winner/s! That’s P300,000 in cash plus other great prizes and a chance to represent the country in an international beauty tilt!

Scroll below to see more information about how you can join!

Miss Bikini Philippines 2014 poster announcing the search

Bb. Pilipinas 2014 Top 40 Official Candidates. From L-R starting with the top row:  Sarah Jireh Asido, Vessica Sambo, Jesyln Santos, Anabel Christine “Tia” Ng, Ellore Punzalan, Shauna Indra Sazina Curran, Leonalyn Dela Cruz, Joy Antonette Diaz, Raquel Kabigting, Angelique de Leon, Kris Tifanny Janson, Dian Carmela Querrer, Gabrielle Ti Lo Kani, Zahara Soriano, Krystal Alonday, Kenneth Santiago, Hannah Sheena Manuel, Joy Marie Gangan, Krischelle Halili, Hanna Mariz Dela Guerra, Mary Ainjely Manalo, Ladylyn Riva, Mae Liezel Ramos, Kimverlyn Suiza, Laura Victoria Lehman, Parul Shah, Mary Jane Bianca Guidotti, Sherlien Dass, Janine Asanion, Hannah Ruth Sison, Emma Maty Tiglao, Julian Aurine Flores, Yvette Marie Santiago, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Nichole Marie Manalo, Vanessa Saliba, Diana Arevalo, Joana Angelica Romero, Mary Jean “MJ” Mariyah Çar Lastimosa, Ednornance Agustin

At last! Bb. Pilipinas has finally released it’s list of Top 40 contestants for the 2014 pageant and never have I seen so much fanfare over the screening of a beauty pageant!

In the old days no one really paid attention to this part of the process; we all waited for the official list of contestants to come out in the news before we started talking about them. But thanks to the impressive performance of the Philippines as the top ranking country in pageant competition last year, we are now scrutinizing the girls even before they join! And now, with BPCI’s announcement of official candidates, we can proceed to scrutinize even more!

But the biggest question is this:

Could the next Miss Universe be one of the girls in the photo above?

For our sake, I hope so.

Truly, it seems that we are starving for a Miss Universe crown now that we have felt the fullness of winning major crowns like Miss International (Bea Santiago 2013) and Miss World (Megan Young 2013) as well as prestigious crowns like Miss Supranational (Mutya Datul 2013) and Miss Tourism International (Angeli Dione Gomez 2013). (Did I forget anyone guys?)

Miss International 2013 Bea Santiago (left), Megan Young Miss World 2013 (middle), Mutya Datul Miss Supranational 2013 (top right), Angeli Dione Gomez Miss Tourism International 2013/2014 (bottom right)

Sharpening our hunger for a Miss Universe title is the consecutive runners-up placements of Venus Raj (4th RU in 2010), Shamcey Supsup (3RU in 2011), Janine Tugonon (1st RU in 2012) and Ariella Arida (3rd RU in 2013).

Left to right – Janine Tugonon, Shamcey Supsup, Venus Raj and Ariella Arida – top performers in Miss Universe since 2010

Photo above from Sash Factor

The list of honors above doesn’t even include several other pageant honors we have won in recent years! The Philippines is definitely ripe for a Miss Universe victory and I’m praying to God that she’s one of the girls in this list of 40 and that the judges will crown her on March 30, 2014.

Here is the complete list of Top 40 contestants in #Bb. Pilipinas 2014. The numbers are their screening numbers and are not yet official.

2. Sarah Jireh Asido

3. Vessica Sambo

5. Jesyln Santos

14. Anabel Christine “Tia” Ng

22. Ellore Punzalan

23. Shauna Indra Sazina Curran

24. Leonalyn Dela Cruz

26. Joy Antonette Diaz

28. Raquel Kabigting

29. Angelique de Leon

32. Kris Tifanny Janson

33. Dian Carmela Querrer

34. Gabrielle Ti Lo Kani

36. Zahara Soriano

39. Krystal Alonday

40. Kenneth Santiago

41. Hannah Sheena Manuel

42. Joy Marie Gangan

44. Krischelle Halili

45. Hanna Mariz Dela Guerra

46. Mary Ainjely Manalo

49. Ladylyn Riva

50. Mae Liezel Ramos

56. Kimverlyn Suiza

57. Laura Victoria Lehman

59. Parul Shah

63. Mary Jane Bianca Guidotti

66. Sherlien Dass

67. Janine Asanion

73. Hannah Ruth Sison

74. Emma Maty Tiglao

75. Julian Aurine Flores

77. Yvette Marie Santiago

78. Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach

92. Nichole Marie Manalo

104. Vanessa Saliba

108. Diana Arevalo

111. Joana Angelica Romero

114. Mary Jean Mariyah Çar Lastimosa

117 Ednornance Agustin

#BbPilipinas2014

Sherlien Dass, official Bb. Pilipinas 2014 candidate, disqualified days after making the cut?

UPDATE: The pageant grapevine is abuzz with the rumor that not only one, but TWO contestants are out of the game: aside from Sherlien Dass, Dianne Querrer has been disqualified. Due to issues with height of all things! Both are only 5′ 4″. They will reportedly be replaced by Aiza Faeldonia and Carla Lizardo. But still no official word from BPCI so keep posted.

Almost every year, one poor girl gets the axe in Bb. Pilipinas, usually for so-called ‘racy’ photo spreads in magazines, citizenship issues and whatnot.

Last year it was Teresa Fenger who had to drop out. In 2011 it was Bianca Paz and in 2009 Sandra Seifert was forced to resign days before coronation night. And let’s not forget the time when Bb. Pilipinas dethroned winner Venus Raj but through her sheer determination to fight for her crown, got reinstated.

Click here to read more about girls who were disqualified (or asked to resign) by Bb. Pilipinas.

Now, I hear that Sherlien Dass has dropped out of the competition just a couple days after being announced one of the official candidates for the Bb. Pilipinas 2014 beauty pageant. Is this true? I checked out She Dass’s Facebook and saw this:

Oh no! Sherlien Dass won’t be competing anymore in Bb. Pilipinas 2014?

No reason was given and Bb. Pilipinas has yet to make an official confirmation that Sherlien Dass was indeed disqualified. Meantime, I spotted one comment by a visitor to the Bb. Pilipinas Facebook which claims that Sherlien was replaced by as certain Aiza. Hmmm…  do any of you know if this is true?

If it is true, it’s sad news specially because Sherlien Dass is a fresh new face in the pageant scene and a pretty one at that. I hear, just like Venus Raj, she is part-Indian. I guess we just have to wait for Bb. Pilipinas to say something about this…

Taken from Carla Jenina Lizardo’s Facebook. But now she’s back in the pageant thanks to some strange developments…

In an odd twist of fate, Carla Jenina Lizardo, who thought her Bb. dreams were dashed when she didn’t enter the Top 40, finds herself back in the game!

According to a reliable source who asked to remain anonymous, Carla Lizardo received a call last night from BPCI inviting her to come back and compete in the Bb. Pilipinas 2014 beauty pageant after the franchise reportedly disqualified two contestants. The Ateneo de Manila beauty accepted and will soon be announced an official candidate.

While I feel bad for the two girls rumored to have been axed – Sherlien Dass and Dianne Querrer, I am pleased that Carla Lizardo was recalled. IMHO, she should have been included in the Top 40 from the very start.

How could they have missed this divine beauty? Carla Lizardo is a stunner and deserves to be in the Top 40!

In fact, I could not believe it when I first scanned the list of official candidates and did not see Carla Lizardo’s name! First of all, she is already a proven winner as Mutya ng Pilipinas Intercontinental 2010 and a Top 12 finisher at Miss World Philippines 2012. Carla Lizardo also happens to be a news anchor for PTV 4 – beauty and brains! As a former volleyball varsity player, you can be assured that she’s got a great physique.

As for the second girl rumored to be recalled to the pageant: the grapevine says it’s none other than Aiza Faeldonia but I can’t verify that story.

Now, you don’t have to take my word that Carla’s back in the fray since Bb. Pilipinas has yet to issue an announcement and heaven knows ANYTHING can happen at this point. But I stand on the reliability of my source and will wait in expectation for the announcement of Carla’s recall from BPCI.

Carla Jenina Lizardo (left) and Aiza Faeldonia are called back to compete in Bb. Pilipinas 2014!

I truly wonder how these two ladies feel after this emotional roller-coaster ride.

At first, it seemed that Carla Lizardo and Aiza Faeldonia were destined to be included in the Top 40, passing every screening session until the final day when they were told to go home. They didn’t make it! Imagine their disappointment after getting so far then being left out.

But then a strange thing came about: 2 girls in the official list of candidates were suddenly out of the running just two days after the announcement of the Top 40!

Carla and Aiza were then invited to join the final line-up of contestants in the Bb. Pilipinas 2014! Did they cry when they got the phone call? Or were they tempted to say no? Whatever they felt, it must have been positive because both girls grabbed the opportunity to be included in the final line-up.

And based on the photos above, both girls look more than qualified!

Diane Querrer (left) and She Dass – disqualified because of their height? Please say it isn’t so!

Meantime, the two other girls – Sherlien Dass and Diane Querrer – who had to drop out of the pageant were reportedly disqualified due to height issues.  No, I do not envy these ladies who did their best to shine in the screenings. It’s no fault of theirs if they made the cut. Now, whether height (both are believed to 5’4″) was the reason for their disqualification has not been verified; Bb. Pilipinas has yet to make a formal announcement on the matter. The only proof of the change in line-up is the addition of the photos of Carla Lizardo and Aiza Faeldonia and the removal of the photos of She Dass and Diane Querrer on the official Facebook page of Bb. Pilipinas.

But now my question is: Do contestants who are ‘replacements’ have any real chance at any of the 4 crowns? At the very least can they enter the semi-finals? Will the judges and organizers ‘discriminate’ against them because they are just ‘recall’ girls? How well have previous ‘recall girls’ performed in Bb. Pilipinas?

As for this author, if either wins a crown, I will rejoice because such vindication is so sweet. And from what I’m seeing, these two girls could pull a shocker on coronation night, March 30, 2014. Wouldn’t that just be so fun?