AFTER ending the Philippines’ streak to place in the Miss Universe finals, Dabawenyos pageant fans see that it may be time for the Miss Universe Philippines Organization to review how it selects the country’s representative.
The Philippines has secured a spot in the Miss Universe finals since 2010 when it was represented by Venus Raj, who finished fourth runner-up. During this decade-long streak, the Philippines was able to produce Miss Universe winners – Pia Wurtzbach in 2015 and Catriona Gray in 2019.
For the first time in 12 years, the Philippines was not able to place in the Top 16. This year the country was represented by Celeste Cortesi.
Moh’d Ambutong, a certified pageant enthusiast, expressed sadness that the streak has ended but he was still happy and congratulated Cortesi for a job well done.
“From day one up to the preliminaries, she did her best, but look, she handled it very well despite unforeseen circumstances,” Ambutong said.
“I don’t want her to feel bad for herself (for not being crowned as Miss Universe), or to blame herself. It is just that I believe the organization is looking for a new queen, not just on sash factor but is purposeful in doing her duties,” he added.
Meanwhile, Daniel Jamito, a beauty contest fan, believes that the Philippines might come back stronger and will be more meticulous in finding the next candidate for Miss Universe.
“Surely, the Philippines will be tougher in choosing the best candidate to represent the country next time. We will come back stronger,” Jamito said.
Meanwhile, for Beauty Tan, a beautician, said she was expecting more from Cortesi to impress the judges, especially since the new organizers are probably looking for other characteristics of a title holder.
“I am expecting her (Miss Philippines) to change her style... I think she does not have a personality enough to be Miss Universe. Miss USA was more of a spokesperson, a confident woman, and she’s been through a lot before winning the title, she will be good for the Miss Universe organization,” Tan commented in vernacular.
“Fan favorite si Celeste (Cortesi) pero ang tinuod dili siya judge-favorite (She is a fan-favorite but in reality, judges do not favor her),” Tan added.
Miss United of States of America (Miss USA) R’Bonney Gabriel was crowned for the 2022 edition of the Miss Universe, besting 83 others from the competition held in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA on January 15, 2023 (Philippine Time). ICE