Hello Missosology! It's been a long time since I last posted here. It took me almost more than 10 years to be back but here I am. Year after year, I've been a quiet pageant observer predicting the wins of Kylie Versoza, Jamie Herrell, Pia Wurtsbach, and Catriona Gray. Every year too, I've always predicted correctly who takes home the Miss Universe Philippines crown since 2010 except Ariella Arida. That's almost 90% accuracy rate and I hope this time I'd still get this right!
So this year's Binibining Pilipinas has been transformative maybe because of the upgrade that Catriona Gray has brought to the world of pageantry. Pressure is on for many binibinis as our current Miss Universe is a tough act to follow. Although this batch is undeniably strong, I sense that no one is strong enough, yet, to follow Catriona's footsteps. But had it not been Catriona preceding this batch, I can say that this batch would go down as one of the toughest binibinis. It's confusing as many underdogs stepped up their game nearing the coronation night - special mention Cebu and Puerto Princesa. Nevertheless, let me reveal to you my choices for the different international crowns of this year's Binibining Pilipinas!
So here's my final prediction.
Universe - Patch Magtanong | Bataan
She is the over-all package. At first I thought, she needed more years to mature as a beauty queen but last night's fashion show reminded me of Shamcey's words that a true queen should know when to reserve her energy and peak when it matters. True enough, Patch killed the competition last night during Charity Gala. She channeled her inner Ariela Arida by exuding so much exotic Filipino charm and displayed confidence that's beyond borders. With an exceptional showing during the 'Free Speak' competition and a good advocacy to back her up, Patch is definitely the leader of the batch and succeeding Catriona wouldn't be too much to bear.
International - Vickie Rushton | Negros Occidental
Vickie is the true face of Binibining Pilipinas 2019. She is a living barbie and has consistently showcased her porcelain features during major events like the Jag Denim Show, Press Presentation, and Charity Gala. She is a Miss International prototype - soft, sweet, and can be fierce when needed. Should she win, I think we have another Miss International crown! Mark my word.
Intercontinental - Hannah Arnolds | Masbate
Hannah knows well her battles. She is one of the most consistent binibini in this year's pageant. If Patch doesn't get crowned as Miss Universe - Philippines, I think Hannah Arnolds would be a good alternative. Although I feel her caucasian look would be quite a disadvantage in Miss Universe. A strong contender like her would not disappoint for back-to-back win in the Miss Intercontinental crown.
Grand International - Gazini Ganados | Talisay City, Cebu
I am glad Gazini proved her skeptics wrong during the 'Free Speak' competition. This stunning beauty might just bring us our first ever Miss Gwand International crown after a fellow Cebuana missed the cut last year. Many might notice how she resembles Tamaryn Green! She is strong and definitely a front-runner to the Miss Universe crown. She was on fire last night during Charity Gala. I feel that Gazini, if not crowned Miss Universe - Philippines, will our first ever Miss Gwand International coming from the Philippines! That elusive crown wouldn't be too elusive no more.
Globe - Samantha Bernardo | Palawan
Sam started strong this year. But as the pageant progresses, she's slowly manifesting her vulnerabilities - especially in the 'Free Speak' portion. Miss Globe would be appropriate for her as this pageant does not give emphasis on communication skills.
Supranational - Emma Tiglao | Pampanga
With an electrifying Asian beauty and charisma, Emma is perfect for Supranational. Her modelesque stature is everything that's needed to take the Supranational crown back to the Pearl of the Orient Seas. I can see a 'Honey Lee' vibe in her and we knew very well how this Korean beauty ended up in the Miss Universe pageant. So, Supranational would be a perfect fit for Emma. Additional note, she is my sentimental favorite. So, I am hoping she'd take the Miss Universe - Philippines crown at the end of the night!
1st Runner UP - Samantha Lo | Cebu
Beauty and substance in one. We need to reserve this woman in the coming years. She's too raw to be sent internationally yet could potentially be a great representative in the future in any of the pageants, especially Miss Universe. She needs time and training. While she can speak her mind well, she's rather underwhelming during the Charity Gala and Jag Denim Queen presentation.
2nd Runner Up - Aya Abesamis | Pasig City
Guess it's sweeter the second time around for Aya. But second time is not enough to get her one of the crowns. She's been consistently styled and physically looks Universe ready but she lacks depth and substance. I think she would make a good alternative for the Miss Globe or Miss Supranational crown.