Filipino-British Rachel Peters is Miss Universe Philippines 2017!

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Rachel Peters, a Filipino-British beauty was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2017 on Sunday's Bb. Pilipinas 2017 Grand Coronation Night held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City. 

Peters who grew up in Camarines Sur, beat 39 other hopeful beautiful ladies.

Hosting the event were Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2010 4th runner-up Venus Raj, and actor Xian Lim. Daniel Padilla made an appearance as a guest performer, serenading the contestants with Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight” during the long gown competition.

The 2016 Binibining Pilipinas queens have passed their crowns on to their successors - Kylie Verzosa, Joanna Eden, Jennifer Hammond, Nichole Manalo and Nicole Cordoves .

The judges initially selected a 14 candidates for the final round, with a 15th picked through online voting. 

Here are the complete list of winners:

Miss Universe Philippines 2017: #19 Rachel Peters 

Bb. Pilipinas - International: #15 Mariel De Leon

Bb. Pilipinas - Supranational: #22 Chanel Olive Thomas

Bb. Pilipinas - Grand International: #39 Elizabeth Durado Clenci

Bb. Pilipinas - Intercontinental: #31 Katarina Rodriguez

Bb. Pilipinas - Globe 2017: #18 Nelda Ibe

1st Runner Up: #33 Charmaine Elima

2nd Runner up: #40 Kristel Guelos

Special Awards:

Binibining Friendship: Chanel Olive Thomas

The Face of Binibini: Rachel Peters

Binibining Talent: Dane Felisse Marasigan

National Costume: Chanel Olive Thomas

Manila Bulletin Reader's Choice: Christagale Borja

Jag Denim Queen: Rachel Peters

Best in Swimsuit: Rachel Peters

Best in Long Gown: Maria Angelica de Leon

Binibining Philippine Airlines: Katarina Sonja Rodriguez

Binibining Creamsilk: Maria Angelica de Leon

Top 15:

#39 Elizabeth Durado Clenci

#15 Mariel de Leon

#22 Chanel Olive Thomas

#31 Katarina Rodriguez

#10 Jehza Huelar

#13 Sirene Sutton

#40 Kristel Guelos

#18 Nelda Ibe

#32 Charmaine Elima

#20 Christagale Borja

#17 Camille Manalo

#34 Gabriela Ortega

#16 Larah Grace Lacap

#19 Rachel Peters

People's Choice: #28 Juliana Kapeundl

Top 25:

#2 Arienne Louise Calingo

#27 Beatrice Valente

#1 Dane Felisse Marasigan

#37 Sammie Anne Legaspi

#6 Maria Bejieleen Nama

#7 Jennyline Carla Malpaya

#9 Vanessa Saliba

#33 Kristi Rose Cequeña

#26 Ruffa Nava

#38 Ana Patricia Asturias

#39 Elizabeth Durado Clenci

#15 Mariel de Leon

#22 Chanel Olive Thomas

#31 Katarina Rodriguez

#10 Jehza Huelar

#13 Sirene Sutton

#40 Kristel Guelos

#18 Nelda Ibe

#32 Charmaine Elima

#20 Christagale Borja

#17 Camille Manalo

#34 Gabriela Ortega

#16 Larah Grace Lacap

#19 Rachel Peters

#28 Juliana Kapeundl

Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina gears up for Miss Universe pageant

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Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina during her send off event hosted by the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc.

Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina was showered with all the warm wishes during the ceremonial send-off party hosted by Bb. Pilipinas Charities Inc. held at the Versailles Tent of the Novotel Manila Araneta Center last Tuesday, January 10, 2017.

Brimming with beauty and confidence, she warmly greeted and thanked members of the press and everybody came to show their love and support for the 24-year old beauty queen. 

The excitement builds up as the 65th Miss Universe season comes into full swing. The send-off event set our representative Maxine up for the 65th Miss Universe pre-pageant activities starting January 14. 

Bb. Pilipinas Charities Inc. chair Mrs. Stella Marquez Araneta, and her fellow Binbining Pilipinas 2016 winners gave their heartfelt messages, hopes and best wishes to boost Maxine's confidence for her fight on the Miss Universe Pageant. 

Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina #4M4MU 

Maxine's family, friends, and boyfriend Marx Topacio were also present at the send-off.

She's very grateful for all the support she has been getting, especially from the filipino netizens who actively root for her online. She's now asking for further support from everyone by using the pageant's official hashtag #4M4MU

Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina with her thank you's and final words at send-off hosted by Bb. Pilipinas Charities Inc. at the Versailles Tent of the Novotel Manila Araneta Center

"The pressure to win is at its greatest now, but yoy words of encouragement relly help strengthen me a lot. I did what I could do in preparing for it and I really hope that It will pays off come pageant night," Maxine says. 

Our beauty queen is confident of back-to-back PH win for Miss Universe. Maxine says she is 100 percent ready to fight for the crown. She shared that her training has been comprehensive and the only thing she asks for are prayers from all Filipinos to guide and see her through each step of the way. 

Miss Philippines Maxine Medina waves at her fans and members of press at her send-off party organized by the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc., January 10, 2017.

Maxine confirms she will wear Rhett Eala for her national costume and evening gown.

Best of luck to the upcoming Miss Universe Coronation Night, Miss Maxine Medina. We can’t wait for you to be crowned as the ultimate Queen of the Universe 2017!

For more updates and more news on Binibining Pilipinas, visit : 

www.bbpilipinas.com

www.facebook.com/pg/realbbpilipinas

@bbpilipinasofficail 

The Binibining Pilipinas 2015 Fashion Show

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A fashion extravaganza like no other! 

On February 26, at 7 PM, 34 of the loveliest Filipinas from all over the country will take center stage at the Binibining Pilipinas 2015 Fashion Show at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The eagerly awaited event is a visual feast, with Binibining Pilipinas candidates gracefully strutting their stuff on the runway, clad in JAG jeans and modern accessories.

Who will set the trend this year with her signature walk? Witness how these ladies pull off both traditional and contemporary ensembles.

Be dazzled at how this year’s delegates beautifully carry themselves, donning cultural dresses made by renowned designers in the National Costume Competition.

Hosted by Binibining Pilipinas reigning queens, the event also features special performances by the Filipino rock band “The Dawn”.

The fashion show serves as another major event leading up to the Grand Coronation Night on March 15, also at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

To purchase tickets, visit TicketNet Online at www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 911-5555 for inquiries.

2015 Binibining Pilipinas candidates announced

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The Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. announced the 34 official candidates of the 2015 Binibining Pilipinas pageant held at the Balay Function Room, Cubao, Saturday, January 10.

 2015 Binibining Pilipinas Official Candidates (Photo:Missology)

Among this year’s candidates are candidates of past Binibining Pilipinas pageants. They are Pia Wurtzbach, who was a favorite in last year’s pageant and Bb. Pilipinas 2014 2nd runner up Hannah Ruth Sison; Meryl Angelie King, Ria Rabajante and Princesslyn Dignadice. Also another familiar face is Teresita Seen Marquez, popularly known as Wyn Wyn Marquez, daughter of showbiz personalities Joey Marquez and Alma Moreno.

Pia Wurtzbach (Photo:Eli Villagonzalo)

Here is this year’s list of candidates in no particular order, as the candidates' official numbers have yet to be announced.

The 34 official candidates

Samantha Barbara Balbin

Marvi Ann Razon de Lima

Teresita Sen Marquez

Namrata Neesha Murjani

Christi Lynn Landrito McGarry

Hannah Ruth Sison

Annabel Christine Tia

Toni Alyessa Hipolito

Alaiza Flor Malinano

Ria Rabajante

Princess Joy Camu

Mia Allyson Hernandez Howell

Jenny Feliz Gonzalez

Ann Lorraine Colis

Enrica Roxiele Guieb

Tanya Angelina Nicole Hyde

Ina Dominica Guerrero

Brenna Cassandra Gamboa

Kimberle Mae Penchon

Kimverlyn Suiza

Crissa Mae Mendiola

Anja Vannesa Peter

Christine Balaguer

Rogelie Catacutan

Pia Wurtzbach

Nancy Lee Leonard

Mae Liezel Ramos

Janicel Lubina

Danita Joan Ruazol

Paula Rich Bartolome

Justine Felizarta

Patricia Lae Ejercitado

Renee Sorya Hassani

Kylie Versoza

Bb. Pilipinas is the local beauty pageant that is responsible for choosing the country’s official candidates for the Miss Universe, Miss International, Miss Supranational, Miss Intercontinental and Miss Tourism international pageants.

This is going to be an exciting year for Binibining Pilipinas! The coronation night will be on March 15 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Super surreal feelings of MJ Lastimosa, Miss Universe Philippines 2014

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North Cotabato beauty Mary Jean Lastimosa bested 39 other contestants in the coronation night and was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2014, now feels so much happiness and excitement.

Binibining Pilipinas, the country’s most prestigious beauty pageant, proclaimed its new queens for 2014 in a glamorous, highly-charged show at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last March 30.

And the 2014 Binibining Pilipinas Queens are now excited to kick off their respective reigns.

Mary Jean Lastimosa

Miss Universe Philippines 2014

After joining the pageant for the third time, new Miss Universe Philippines 2014 Mary Jean “MJ” Lastimosa finally won the coveted crown.

“Sobrang surreal yung feeling. Three years in the making ito for me. Sobrang taas ng level of happiness ko ngayon,” she exclaims. 

26 year old North Cotabato native Mary Jean Lastimosa is an entrepreneur. A personal advocate of staying fit, she successfully established her own slimming center in Davao.

Growing up in a war-torn province, she developed values of determination and courageousness, and this is something she brought to her personal life, her career and her journey to the Binibining Pilipinas crown.

Binibining Pilipinas’ Maricar Balagtas is her inspiration for joining the pageant again, because she joined three times before winning. Whenever she feels down, she looks up at her and thinks that if she was able to do it and so can she.

On her free time, she loves working out at the gym, travelling, modeling, dancing, and surfing social media websites.

Here's the question-and-answer portion with Lastimosa, asked by reigning Miss Universe Queen Gabriela Isler

Q: "What is the greatest advantage of being a woman?"

Lastimosa answered:

"The greatest advantage of being a woman is being able to compose herself. Just like here, we're standing in front of thousands of people, not knowing if you're going to cheer for us or boo us. But we try to compose ourselves. We keep the emotions and show the beauty that is in us and tonight thousands of people are standing here, celebrating the beauty of women."

The 2014 Binibining Pilipinas Queens are: 

Mary Jean Lastimosa, Miss Universe Philippines 2014

Mary Anne Bianca Guidotti, Binibining Pilipinas International 2014

Yvethe Marie Santiago, Binibining Pilipinas Supranational 2014

Kris Tiffany Janson, Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2014

Parul Shah, Binibining Pilipinas Tourism 2014

Laura Victoria Lehmann, Binibining Pilipinas 2014 1st Runner Up 

Hannah Ruth Sison, Binibining Pilipinas 2014 2nd Runner Up

Rounding up the Top 15 Semifinalists were Julian Aurine Flores, Joanna Angelica Romero, Pia Wurtzbach, Emma Mary Tiglao, Zahara Mae Soriano, Mae Liezel Ramos, Kenneth Santiago, and Nichole Marie Manalo. 

The pageant was a star-studded affair with the participation of Miss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler and Russian singer-songwriter Emin. Gabriela led this year’s Board of Judges, while Emin serenaded the candidates with his best-selling hits. ABS-CBN stars Xian Lim and Anne Curtis, and beauty queens Shamcey Supsup, Venus Raj, and Janine Tugonon hosted the event. 

The Binibining Pilipinas 2014 pageant is presented by the Araneta Center, ABS-CBN, Cream Silk, PLDT Home, JAG Jeans, AVON, PAGCOR, Titan Watches—the official watch sponsor, PAGCOR, Manhattan Garden City, Pizza Hut, Lactacyd White Intimate, Philippine Airlines, Sofitel—the official residence, Manila Bulletin—the official print partner, David’s Salon, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Gold’s Gym, J.A.C. Motors, Picture City, Dale Carnegie Training Center, Entrepreneur School of Asia, Charter Ping An Insurance Corporation, and Raymond Saldaña Photography.

More BINIBINING PILIPINAS 2014 WINNERS’ PROFILES will be published here. 

North Cotabato beauty Mary Jean Lastimosa, crowned Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2014

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Mary Jean Lastimosa,  26-year old North Cotabato beauty bested 39 other contestants in the coronation night and was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2014 at the annual beauty pageant's grand coronation night held at the Araneta Coliseum,  March 30, 2014.

Here's the question-and-answer portion with Lastimosa, asked by reigning Miss Universe Queen Gabriela Isler

Q: "What is the greatest advantage of being a woman?"

Lastimosa answered: 

"The greatest advantage of being a woman is being able to compose herself. Just like here, we're standing in front of thousands of people, not knowing if you're going to cheer for us or boo us. But we try to compose ourselves. We keep the emotions and show the beauty that is in us and tonight thousands of people are standing here, celebrating the beauty of women."

Here are the other winners of the Binibining Pilipinas 2014 beauty pageant:

Bb. Pilipinas International 2014: Mary Anne Bianca Guidotti

Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental 2014: Kris Janson 

Bb. Pilipinas Supranational 2014: Yvethe Santiago

Bb. Pilipinas Tourism 2014: Parul Shah

First runner-up: Laura Lehmann

Second runner-up: Hannah Ruth Sison

Best in Long Gown: Mary Anne Bianca Guidotti

Best in Swimsuit: Mary Jean Lastimosa

Best in Talent: Gabrielle Tilokani

Best in National Costume: Kris Janson

Miss Friendship: Racquel Kabigting

Miss Photogenic: Kris Janson

Miss Philippine Airlines: Pia Wurtzback

Miss Cream Silk: Yvethe Santiago

JAG 2014: Pia Wurtzback

Binibining Avon: Yvethe Santiago

Manila Bulletin's Reader's Choice Award: Ladylyn Riva

Photos by https://www.facebook.com/myrns.roman

Binibining Pilipinas: The Road to the Crown

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#KnowYourBinibini Candidates #BinibiniWatch for the Binibini Primer, #TheRoadtotheCrown on March 23 at 9:30 PM on Abs-Cbn. 

Watch out for the Binibini Primer, The Road to the Crown on March 23 at 9:30 PM on ABS CBN

Bb Pilipinas 2014 Candidates in bikini showdown

40 Binibining Pilipinas 2014 candidates were in their out of town shoot for ABS-CBN Special program -  Binibining Pilipinas: The Road to the Crown to be aired on March 23, 2014. 

Girl Power! Binibinis celebrate International Women’s Day

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GIRL POWER – Binibining Pilipinas 2014 candidates show off women’s rights signs with 

Mr. Brian Poe, Head of the Research Team—Office of Senator Grace Poe- Llamanzares

The 40 candidates of the Binibining Pilipinas celebrated International Women’s Day last March 8 at the Gateway Cinema 5 in a film showing of documentary Girl Rising sponsored by SPARK Philippines Inc (Samahan ng Mga Pilipina para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran), J. Amado Araneta Foundation, and the Araneta Center.

The movie featured the inspiring stories of nine girls all over the world who were born into unforgiving circumstances but overcame adversity. The event also hosted thought-provoking talks on women empowerment from Ms. Czarina Medina-Guce, Executive Director, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines; Mr. Brian Poe- Llamanzares, Head of the Research Team—Office of Senator Grace Poe- Llamanzares; Bai Rohaniza Sumndad-Usman, Founder, Teach Peace Build Peace Movement; and Zorayda Amelia Alonzo, SPARK Philippines Inc. President.

As representatives of the Philippines to the most prestigious pageants worldwide, the Binibinis embody Filipinas’ strength and character and are champions of women empowerment.  In an interview, the girls share their thoughts on women’s rights, gender equality and International Women’s Day.

What can women do for society?

“Women can do a lot of things in society, and we are privileged to be living in an age where we can enjoy freedom to pursue things we want to do and achieve. For me, as a Binibini, I can inspire women to become better versions of themselves and we advocate women to be empowered Filipinas.”—Binibini No. 31 Angelique Celine De Leon

What are the biggest issues for women that we should address?

“I read somewhere that the Philippines is a hotbed for human trafficking, and women are the most susceptible to this. There are women who are being exploited and violated and they were not given the choice to say no. So I think we should promote projects to push awareness on human trafficking.”—Binibini No. 5 Hanna Mariz dela Guerra

What are your realizations this Women’s month? 

“This day made me realize the importance of gender equality—that women deserve to be treated equally with men and that women are able and capable of reaching their dreams. As a girl who underwent struggles in my life, I keep these thoughts in mind to fuel me to achieve my goals.”—Binibini No. 36 Krystal Alonday

Who are the women you look up to?

“I work with Noraida Abdullah Karim in CFSI (Community and Family Services International) and she is someone I look up to. She is a multi-awarded social worker who specializes in psychosocial care, and she has helped counsel countless women and children who underwent traumatic experiences in war-torn Mindanao. I admire her because of her passion for the advocacy.”—Binibini No. 22 Mary Anne Bianca G. Guidotti

What can you say about gender equality in the Philippines?

“We are blessed that the Philippines is ranked number 5 in the world for gender equality based on a survey. But at the same time, there are still problems that need to be addressed like abuse in women. But it’s a good thing that we have programs that cater to the abused and empower women.”—Binibini No. 3 Joanna Angelica Romero

If you were to win Bb Pilipinas, what advocacy would you have for women?

“I want to have an organization that would foster and support sexually abused teenagers. Like a big sister-little sister project that would help the victims. Because of my exposure to so many news stories on rape and abuse, it became something I feel strongly about.”—Binibini No. 28 Carla Jenina Lizardo

As a beauty queen, how would you help promote women’s rights?

Candidate no. 4 Parul Shah shows off her support for education for women at the

Women’s Day celebration of Spark Philippines Inc., J. Amado Araneta Foundation, 

and Araneta Center

“I would advocate gender equality. Everyone should be treated with mutual respect. Your race, your religion, your culture, or where you’re from—these things shouldn’t matter. Women should have the freedom to achieve anything they want in life.”—Binibini No. 4 Parul Shah

Joanna Angelica Romero, Mary Ainjely Manalo and Julian Aurine Flores stand up for women’s rights and display empowerment signs  at the recently concluded Women’s Day Celebration at the Araneta Center

What can you say about the women’s day festivities in the Philippines?

“I am happy that there is a day for women to be recognized and it’s also an important day for us to be aware of women’s issues. I think awareness is key to solve a lot of social issues women are facing.”—Binibini No. 1 Julian Aurine Flores

Forty Binibinis heat up the Big Dome with annual runway show

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The loveliest women from all over the country rocked the runway at the Binibining Pilipinas 2014 Fashion Show,  National Costume & JAG Casual Wears & Jeans Fashion Show at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on March 6.

Audiences hotly anticipated who would follow the fabulous footsteps of Shamcey’s “Tsunami Walk,” Janine’s “Cobra Walk,” Ariella Arida’s “Ariba Walk,” and Johanna’s Salagubang distinctive strut, as the moving mannequins sashayed their way into Philippines in the world’s most prestigious beauty pageants.

It was a fashion extravaganza like no other, with a display of elegance and grace that is required of all the 40 Binibining Pilipinas 2014 candidates.

The 40 beautiful hopefuls each made their debut in their chosen cultural dresses for the National Costume competition, then thereafter showed off their fierce walk and strutted down the Big Dome’s catwalk clad in sexy JAG jeans and accessories from the Binibini collection.

The Fashion Show is only one of the many exciting activities on the lead up to the Binibining Pilipinas Grand Coronation Night on March 30.

The ladies will be launching their Swimsuit Photo Exhibit at the Gateway Cinema Lobby on March 15 and will be holding the much-awaited Parade of Beauties around the Araneta Center on March 22.

The 40 candidates will also take part in various charitable missions and outreach programs under Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc and its partners.

The Binibining Pilipinas 2014 pageant is presented by the Araneta Center, ABS-CBN, PLDT Home, Jag Jeans, Avon, Megaworld Properties, Manhattan Garden City, Titan Watches, Pizza Hut, Sofitel Hotel, David’s Salon, J.A.C Motors, Picture City, Gold’s Gym, Dale Carnegie Training, Charter Ping An, Entrepreneur School of Asia and Raymond Saldana Photography.

The Binibining Pilipinas 2014 fashion show opens its doors to the public, and pageant aficionados can fan girl over their favored bets and purchase tickets, priced Php 110 for Patron A, Php 90 for Patron B, and Php 60 for Box.

To purchase tickets, visit Ticketnet Online www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 911-5555 for inquiries.

Photos: Arts Travel & Music Magazine

Top 40 Binibining Pilipinas 2014 hopefuls were officially presented to media

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The forty most beautiful Filipinas were presented to the members of the press and other guests during the Binibining Pilipinas 2014 Official Press Presentation held at the Luzon Ballroom of the Sofitel last February 19. 

The stunning young Filipinas who came from all over the Philippines walked the ramp in front of sponsors, guests, and the media.

The 40 beauty queen hopefuls were trimmed down from over a hundred aspirants during the rigorous four-day screening back in January. Since 1964, the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) has been the country’s prestigious discoverer and trainer of young ladies who represent us in well-known international beauty tilts. In a span of five decades, BPCI has proven its caliber as a credible institution that eyes these potential candidates, vaunting a resume that begins with Gloria Diaz’s Miss Universe win in 1969. In the last few years, the Philippines has been rising through the ranks as a beauty powerhouse with the impressive top five finishes of Venus Raj, Shamcey Supsup, Janine Tugonon, and Ariella Arida in the last four Miss Universe contests. 

Last year’s golden batch of winners, led by Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago and Miss Supranational 2013 Johanna Datul, Miss Universe 2013 3rd runner up Ariella Arida, and Miss Tourism Queen International 2013 Top 10 finalist Cindy Miranda, brought immense pride to the country by doing well in their respective international competitions. 

This year’s roster of candidates include local pageant winners, graduates from top schools, artists, working professionals, and models who went through months of extensive training even before they joined the pageant. 

The 2014 Binibining Pilipinas candidates still have a lot on their plates leading up to the Grand Coronation Night. The Fashion Show is set on March 6, and the much-anticipated Parade of Beauties will be held on March 22.

The Grand Coronation Night will be held on March 30 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and telecast live at ABS-CBN.

Miss Universe 2013 Maria Gabriela Isler of Venezuela and Russian pop star Emin will be two of the special guests in the Binibining Pilipinas 2014 Grand Coronation Night. Gabriela will be one of the judges during the pageant and will help crown this year’s winners, while Emin will lead the list of the hotly-anticipated performers in the 51st edition of the most prestigious beauty contest in the country.

Tickets are available through Ticketnet Online www.ticketnet.com.ph or inquire at (02) 911 5555. 

The Binibining Pilipinas 2013 pageant is presented by the Araneta Center, ABS-CBN, PLDT Home, JAG Jeans, AVON, PAGCOR, Titan Watches—the official watch sponsor, Manhattan Garden City, Pizza Hut, Sofitel—the official residence, Manila Bulletin—the official print partner, David’s Salon, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Gold’s Gym, J.A.C. Motors, Picture City, Dale Carnegie Training Center, Entrepreneur School of Asia, Charter Ping An Insurance Corporation, and Raymond Saldaña Photography.

Binibining Pilipinas 2014 candidates shown off their talent!

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During the happy heart's day, the gorgeous ladies of Binibining Pilipinas shown off their talent in a special show at the Farmers Plaza Activity Area, Araneta, Cubao, Quezon City.

Nine of the 40 Candidates in Binibining Pilipinas 2014 regaled members of the press, shoppers and couples out on a date as they showcased their talents during the Bb. Pilipinas 2014 Talent Show held February 14, Valentine's Day.

This year’s roster of talented beauties impressed the crowd with their talents in singing and dancing. Several of the future beauty queens choose to sing to the awestruck crowd.

Candidate no. 10 Shauna Indra Salina Curran, sang Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep.”
 Half Scottish Shauna is a Radio DJ in Baguio.

Candidate 27 Hannah Ruth Sison belted out her own rendition of “For the first time in Forever.”

Candidate no. 32 Jeslyn Santos from Hagonoy, Bulacan got audiences swooning 
when she sang “Weak.”

Candidate no. 33 Gabrilelle Ericka Tiokani of Mandaluyong exhibited her vocal chips via Rihanna’s hit song “Diamonds.”

The other candidates meanwhile stirred up the crowd with their dancing skills.

Candidate no. 7 Aiza Faeldonia of Sultan Kudarat showed of her skill and her pride in her home province by performing the Moslem dance Singkil.

Candidate 13 Kris Tiffany Janson onstage with her modern dance number 

Candidate no 31 Angelique Celine DeLeon on the other hand, performed a rousing hip hop number to a medley of Beyonce’s hit songs.

Candidate no 37 Vanessa Saliba amazed the audience with her belly dancing routine.

Candidate 25 Mary Jean Lastimosa performs the flamenco.

Candidate 14 Emma Mary Tiglao shows the audience her dancing skill

Before the Talent competition got underway, the 40 Official Candidates and the audience were serenaded by Josh Padilla, a singer, actor , and commercial model. 

The judges included Ms. Universe 2013 3rd Runner up Ariella Arida, Ms. Supra Natural 2013 Mutya Johanna Datul, ABS-CBN Creative Director Chris Violago, and choreographer Joan Laygo. The talent show was hosted by Bb. Pilipinas International 2008 Patricia Fernandez and United Promotions Sales and Marketing Manager Gines Enriquez.

The winner of Best in Talent will be proclaimed during the Binibining Pilipinas 2014 Grand Coronation Night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on March 30.

(Photo Credits: Some photos from Mr. Mac Vasquez)

Binibining Pilipinas 2014 Announces 40 Official Candidates

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The Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) has announced the 40 official candidates to the Binibining Pilipinas 2014 Pageant in a much anticipated event held January 27 at the Gloria Maris Banquet Hall.

From over a hundred beauty pageant hopefuls, the girls went through a rigorous 4-day screening that saw the list come down to 72 and 60 before the list of the 40 official candidates was completed.

Present during the final screening and the announcement of the official candidates were Madame Stella Marquez Araneta, Chairperson of the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc., as well as members of the BPCI Board of Directors Conchitina Bernardo and Betsy Westendorp. Reigning 2013 queens Ariella Arida, Bea Rose Santiago, Johanna Datul, and Cindy Miranda, and Miss Universe 2011 3rd runner up Shamcey Supsup were also among the beauty queens present during the event.

Since 1964, the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) has been the country’s prestigious discoverer and trainer of young ladies who represent us in well-known international beauty tilts. In a span of five decades, BPCI has proven its caliber as a credible institution that eyes these potential candidates, vaunting a resume that begins with Gloria Diaz’s Miss Universe win in. In the last few years, the Philippines is gradually being known as a beauty powerhouse with the impressive top five finishes of Venus Raj, Shamcey Supsup, Janine Tugonon, and Ariella Arida in the last four Miss Universe contests.

Last year’s golden batch of winners, led by Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago and Miss Supranational 2013 Johanna Datul, Miss Universe 2013 3rd runner up Ariella Arida, and Miss Tourism Queen International 2013 Top 10 finalist Cindy Miranda, brought immense pride to the country by doing well in their respective international competitions.

The Official Candidates are as follows:

Julian Aurine Flores

Mary Ainjely P. Manalo

Joanna Angelica M. Romero

Parul Shah

Hanna Mariz D. Dela Guerra

Anabel Christine G. Tia

Aiza Faeldonia

Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach

Joy Antonette Diaz

Shauna Indra Salina Curran

Laura Victoria Lehmann

Sarah Jireh Asido

Kris Tiffany M. Janson

Emma Mary F. Tiglao

Kimverlyn O. Suiza

Zahara Mae O. Soriano

Diana B. Arevalo

Ellore Noelle Punzalan

Mae Liezel J. Ramos

Kenneth Santiago

Racquel D. Kabigting

Mary Anne Bianca G. Guidotti

Nichole Marie R. Manalo

Ednornance Agustin

Mary Jean Lastimosa

Hanna Sheena L. Manuel

Hannah Ruth Sison

Carla Jenina Cabrera Lizardo

Krischelle DG. Halili

Joy Marie Gangan

Angelique Celine L. De Leon

Jeslyn Santos

Gabrielle Erika Tilokani

Leonalyn D. Dela Cruz

Yvette Marie A. Santiago

Krystal Alonday

Vanessa N. Saliba

Janine A. Asanion

Ladylyn Riva

Vessica L. Sambo

The 40 girls will vie for following crowns: Miss Universe-Philippines 2014, Binibining Pilipinas-International 2014, Binibining Pilipinas-Tourism 2014, and Binibining Pilipinas-Supranational 2014. The Binibining Pilipinas Grand Coronation Night will be held on March 30 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Binibining Pilipinas 2013 - Gold Winners Presented

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Enjoying the wonderful world as we meet and greet the Queens of Binibining Pilipinas Gold! 

The lovely queens of Binibining Pilipinas Gold answers questions from the media during the post coronation press conference held at Gateway Cineplex 4 last April 23. 

Signing of the 2013 Souvenir program

The Beauty Queens signs their photos featured in the exhibit at the Gateway Mall. Their photos along with the other 45 binibinis' glamshots are featured in Metro Magazine's special edition for Bb. Pilipinas Gold.

Binibining Pilipinas crowned its 50th batch of beauty queens Sunday night April 14 in a star-studded golden anniversary celebration held at the Araneta Coliseum. 

Binibining Pilipinas Gold presented its newly proclaimed winners at the Gateway Cineplex more than a week after a magnificent coronation night staged at the Smart Araneta Coliseum which was made even more meaningful with the special appearance of almost 70 former Binibining Pilipinas beauty queens.

The winners have been busy in several television guest appearances and are about to indulge in a rigorous training program that will include personality development, beauty sessions, and the like to be conducted by seasoned beauty and television experts. Being the newest celebrities of the country, the new queens’ schedules are also replete with sponsors visits and tourism activities that usually abound during the summer. 

On May 18, the Golden Batch as they are called will be the main stars in the traditional Araneta Center Grand Santacruzan that will traverse the roads of the shopping complex. Other past contestants and queens are expected to grace this glittering event. The ladies will be wearing gowns done by leading Filipino and international designers.

Binibining Pilipinas 2013 is presented by the Araneta Center, ABS-CBN, CreamSilk with major sponsors San Miguel Brewery, Petron Corporation, San Miguel Power, Ginebra San Miguel and San Miguel Food. Other sponsors are Casino Filipino, PAGCOR, Avon, Lactacyd, Philippine Airlines, Jag Jeans, and Manhattan Garden City. Service sponsors are EDSA Shangri-La Hotel, Manila Bulletin, Pizza Hut, David’s Salon, Gold’s Gym, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Joylong Van, Picture City, Dale Carnegie Training Center, Entrepreneur School of Asia, Charter, Ping An Insurance Corporation, Raymond Saldana Photography and Rightspot Electronic Media. 

Here is the complete roster of the Binibining Pilipinas Gold winners: 

Ariella Arida - Miss Universe Philippines 2013
(by Bruce Casanova)

Ariella Arida, 24 

Miss Universe Philippines 2013, Best in Swimsuit 

Alaminos, Laguna native Ariella graduated with a degree in Chemistry from the University of the Philippines – Los Baños. She is a keen sportswoman, having tried swimming, volleyball, and now running. She recently ran a 21K. She also did ramp modeling after graduating from college.

Her beauty queen idol is Venus Raj. She likes watching Venus’s pageant videos because she wants to emulate the way she moves and speaks.

Apart from bagging the Miss Universe Philippines title, Ariella also won the Best in Swimsuit award. Ariella will be one of the candidates in the 62nd edition of the Miss Universe pageant this year. Miss Universe is one of the biggest and most prestigious beauty pageants held annually. 

Bea Rose Santiago - Bb. Pilipinas International 2013 (by Bruce Casanova)

Bea Rose Santiago, 23 

Binibining Pilipinas-International 2013, Miss Avon

A Communications student majoring in Public Relations at the York University in Toronto, Canada, Bea was born in the Philippines, but she and her family moved to Toronto when she was 14.

Bea moved back to the Philippines to try her luck in the Binibining Pilipinas pageant. She now lives on her own here in the Philippines. She is a Gawad Kalinga Ambassador who plays the banduria and would like to promote her province, Masbate, through joining the pageant.

Apart from winning the Binibining Pilipinas-International title, Bea also won the Miss Avon special award. Bea will be representing the country in this year’s edition of the Miss International pageant. The Miss International pageant aims to promote world peace, goodwill, and understanding. 

Joanna Cindy Miranda - Bb. Pilipinas Tourism 2013 (by Bruce Casanova)

Joanna Cindy Miranda, 20 

Binibining Pilipinas-Tourism 2013,Miss CreamSilk, Miss Petron

Cindy used to be a noontime show co-host. She decided to resign from the show because she really wanted to join Binibining Pilipinas. She used to be very shy in person even when she was already working as a TV host.

Despite her achievements, Cindy wants to maintain her simplicity.

Cindy also won the Miss CreamSilk Beyond Beautiful and Miss Petron special awards. She will be the Philippines’ representative in the Miss Tourism Queen International pageant, an annual international beauty pageant held in China.

Mutya Johanna Datul - Miss Supranational Philippines 2013 
(by Bruce Casanova)

Mutya Johanna Datul, 21 

Binibining Pilipinas-Supranational 2013, Miss Photogenic, Best in Long Gown 

Mutya describes herself as a “simpleng probinsyana na may matayog na pangarap.” As a young girl in Isabela, she helps catch salagubang in the fields, which they make into a delicacy. She says Binibining Pilipinas is her “ultimate dream.” She has watched the pageant since she was a little girl, and has since wanted to be one of the queens.

In her spare time, Mutya likes to listen to music and sing. Her beauty queen idol is Venus Raj, because “nakikita ko ang buhay ko sa kanya, na nabuhay sa hirap, pero nagsikap. Sa kanya ko nakita na hindi imposible na makamit mo yung pangarap mo.”

Mutya turned 21 a few days after winning one of the crowns. Apart from winning the new Binibining Pilipinas-Supranational title, Mutya also bagged the Best in Long Gown and Miss Photogenic awards. Mutya hopes to do well in this year’s Miss Supranational pageant slated on September 6 at Belarus. The Miss Supranational pageant is a fairly new international pageant established in Poland in 2009. 

Pia Wurtzbach - 1st Runner-Up 
(by Bruce Casanova)

Pia Wurtzbach, 23 

Binibining Pilipinas 1st Runner Up, Miss San Mig Zero Fit and Sexy Body

Half-German Pia is from Cagayan de Oro. A former ABS-CBN talent under the screen name Pia Romero, Pia believes being a beauty queen is different from being an actress. She believes being a beauty queen requires one to be herself and presentable at the same time.

One thing that most people don’t know about her is that she’s approachable and can get along with anybody.

Apart from landing the first runner up honors, Pia also won the Miss San Mig Zero Fit and Sexy Body award. 

Sponsors/Special Awards 

Miss Philippine Airlines - Nicole Kim Donesa 
(by Bruce Casanova)

NICOLE DONESA. Miss Philippine Airlines 

A talented singer who used to perform in various Fil-Am events in the United States, eighteen year old Nicole will certainly be busy promoting a good image for the country and its official carrier as Miss Philippine Airlines.

Best in Talent - Anna Carmela Aquino 
(by Bruce Casanova)

ANNA CARMELA AQUINO. Miss Talent 

This twenty-two year old educator from Taytay wowed the audience during the Talent Competition held at the Gateway Suites with her world class dancing skills, a gift that has brought her to performances abroad. 

Lourenz Grace Remetillo - Miss Friendship 
(by Bruce Casanova)

LOURENZ GRACE REMETILLO. Miss Friendship 

Despite the pressures and rigors of the competition, this twenty-five year old Iligan City lass has managed to maintain cordial relations with the rest of the candidates, proving that the journey is just as important as the crown. 

Manila Bulletin Readers' Choice - Ellore Noelle Punzalan 
(by Bruce Casanova)

ELLORE NOELLE PUNZALAN. Manila Bulletin’s Readers Choice 

A veritable jill of all trades, Ellore Noelle was named as Manila Bulletin’s Readers Choice for this year. As a person who dabbles in musical theater, painting, taekwondo, basketball and volleyball, she will certainly be very interesting for the readers of Manila Bulletin. 

Best in National Costume - Ma. Teresita Alaine Baccay 
(by Bruce Casanova)

MA. TERESITA ALAINE BACCAY. Best in National Costume 

The grace by which she carried her Filipiniana costume simply took the judges’ breath away. Even as a child, she used to fashion “gowns” out of her curtains and practice her walk, a practice that certainly augured well for her to bag the Best in National Costume award. 

Bb. Pilipinas-PAGCOR - Imelda Schweighart (by Bruce Casanova)

IMELDA SCHWEIGHART. Miss Pagcor 

Imelda Schweighart from Puerto Princesa will certainly be a good ambassador for PAGCOR’s charitable projects, especially that which espouses more schoolrooms for the country’s poor children.

Congratulations to all the winners! 

Visit the Bb. Pilipinas Gold exhibit at Gateway Mall. It runs until May 4. 

The Bb. Pilipinas Gold souvenir program is available in these National Bookstore branches : 

Main Branch (Araneta Center), Glorietta, Rockwell, Greenbelt, Global, Megamall, Shangri-la, North Edsa and Trinoma. It will soon be available nationwide.